Embodiments include systems and methods for allowing a host CPU to sleep while service presence packets and responses to search requests are sent by an alternate processor. While the CPU is in a low power state, the alternate processor monitors the network for incoming request packets. Also, while the CPU is asleep, the alternate processor periodically may transmit presence packets, announcing the presence of a service available from the host system of the CPU. In one embodiment, the alternate processor is a low power processor. If a search request is received when the CPU is in a low power state, the alternate processor responds to the search request according to whether the PC provides that service. If a service request is received, then the ME wakes the CPU of the PC to provide the requested service. In the wireless case, when the CPU is asleep, portions of the wireless upper MAC are implemented by the ME. When the CPU is awake the wireless upper MAC is implemented in the CPU. Thus, embodiments enable the PC to appear available to wireless devices when the CPU is asleep.