A network interface including: a medium access control device configured to operate at a first power state during an inactive power mode, and operate at a second power state during an active power mode; a physical layer device including (i) an energy detect module configured to detect energy on a medium during the inactive power mode, and (ii) an energy save module configured to time a first pre-determined period subsequent to the energy detect module detecting energy on the medium. The medium access control device is further configured to, subsequent to the energy detect module detecting energy on the medium, transition to the second power state of the active power mode, and communication with the medium access control device via the medium is enabled subsequent to expiration of the first pre-determined period.