My Book Live - How to access files? Fix it

My Book Live is a network-attached storage (NAS) device developed by Western Digital (WD). It allows users to store, access, and share files over a home or office network. Unlike traditional external hard drives that connect directly to your computer via USB, My Book Live connects to your router, making it accessible to all devices on the same network—and in some cases, even remotely over the internet. Accessing files from a My Book Live is straightforward, provided the device is set up correctly and connected to the same network as your device.

1. Connect My Book Live to Your Network

Before accessing files, ensure:

My Book Live is powered on.

The Ethernet cable is securely connected between the device and your Wi-Fi router.

The LED on the front of the unit is solid green or blue, indicating it’s ready.

2. Accessing Files from a Windows PC

Via File Explorer (Local Network)

Open File Explorer.

In the left-hand panel, click on Network.

Look for MYBOOKLIVE or a custom name (if renamed).

Double-click the device name.

Enter a username and password if prompted (default is often set in the WD Dashboard).

Browse shared folders like Public, Shared Videos, Shared Music, etc.

Tip: You can also map the drive for easier future access:

Right-click the folder > Map network drive > Choose a drive letter > Click Finish.

3. Accessing Files from a macOS Computer

Via Finder (Local Network)

Open Finder

Click Go > Connect to Server (or press Cmd + K).

Type:

cpp

Copy

Edit

smb://MYBOOKLIVE

or use the IP address:

cpp

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Edit

smb://192.168.1.xxx

Click Connect.

Enter login credentials if required.

Browse the available shared folders.

4. Using WD My Cloud App (Remote or Mobile Access)

Although My Book Live is an older model, WD previously supported remote access via WD2go.com or WD My Cloud app. Note that WD has disabled remote access services for My Book Live due to a major security vulnerability discovered in 2021.

Mobile Access (Local Only)

If you’re on the same local Wi-Fi network:

Download WD My Cloud from Google Play or the App Store.

Open the app and search for local devices.

Select My Book Live and log in.

Browse and access files.

Note: Remote access is no longer supported officially by WD for My Book Live due to security concerns. You can only access files locally unless you set up third-party solutions.

5. Accessing via Web Interface (Dashboard)

The WD Dashboard lets you manage settings and users:

Open a web browser.

In the address bar, type the device’s IP address (e.g., http://192.168.1.xxx) or:

arduino

Copy

Edit

http://mybooklive

Login to the dashboard using your admin credentials.

From here, you can:

Create new users and shares.

View storage usage.

Update firmware.

Configure network settings.

6. Accessing via FTP (Advanced Users)

If FTP access is enabled in the Dashboard:

Use an FTP client like FileZilla.

Enter:

Host: ftp://192.168.1.xxx

Username: Your My Book Live user

Password: Your password

Connect and transfer files securely.

7. Troubleshooting Tips

Can't see the device? Ensure network discovery is enabled on your PC/Mac.

Device not responding? Reboot the router and My Book Live.

Forgot IP address? Use your router’s admin page or WD software to locate the device.

Security notice: WD recommends disconnecting My Book Live from the internet due to known vulnerabilities. Use it only on local, trusted networks.

Conclusion

Accessing files on your My Book Live is generally seamless when you're connected to the same network. Whether you’re using a PC, Mac, or mobile device, shared folders can be opened with minimal setup. However, due to security concerns and discontinued remote services, it's best used as a local backup and storage solution. Always back up your important data and consider upgrading to a newer NAS with modern security if you need remote access capabilities.