A method comprises receiving data, modulated according to a first modulation scheme, from a transmitter via an Ethernet link while the receiver is in a first mode. The first mode corresponds to a first power consumption level of the receiver. The method also includes receiving a sleep signal, and, in response, transitioning the receiver to a second mode. The second mode corresponds to a second power consumption level lower than the first power consumption level. The method also includes detecting an expiration of a predetermined time interval, and, in response, transitioning the receiver to a third mode. The third mode corresponds to a third power consumption level greater than the second power consumption level. The method also includes receiving a refresh signal modulated according to a different, second modulation scheme, synchronizing the receiver to the transmitter based on the refresh signal, and transitioning the receiver back to the second mode.