A network device includes one or more memories and one or more processor circuits coupled to the one or more memories. The one or more processor circuits are configured to cause providing for transmission a request directed to a network controller to change a power state of the network device, receiving a grant from the network controller in response to the request, and changing the power state of the network device in response to receiving the grant. The power state of the network device includes a running power state and a standby power state, where the standby power state includes an active mode and an idle mode. A network controller for granting a request from the network device to change a power state of the network device is also disclosed.