open MacBook from Apple Watch

A-VS wrote:

I thought this would do it and immediately changed the order to make Wifi first; however, it didn't work.

Note: This is when my MacBook is closed, connected to Ethernet, and to two secondary monitors. As soon as I disconnect and use the MacBook on WiFi only, TouchID works.

Either of my two Macs (16" Intel i9 and 16" M1 Pro) unlock with my Apple Watch when used open or in clamshell mode, whether connected to the internet via WiFi or via the ethernet cable attached to my Stone Pro dock.

I have had occasions where it doesn't work right after a MacOS update. For me, signing out of my Apple ID then signing back on (on the Mac) corrected it.

For the unlock feature to work Wi-Fi is required to be "on" but it does not need to be first in your Mac's network service order: Change the order of the network services your Mac uses - Apple Support.

For reference: Unlock your Mac with your Apple Watch - Apple Support