Subnet has changed with no DHCP, how to access the mybooklive hdd?

If your WD MyBookLive drive isn't responding on your network, and your router no longer provides DHCP or the subnet has changed, the drive may still be working — but it’s stuck with a previously assigned static IP address or waiting for DHCP instructions that aren’t coming.

Here’s how to access your MyBookLive manually without DHCP.

Step 1: Understand the Problem

By default, MyBookLive relies on DHCP to get its IP address from your router. Without DHCP:

The drive retains its last known IP address (likely something like 192.168.0.x or 192.168.1.x).

If your new router uses a different subnet (e.g., 192.168.100.x), your PC won’t be able to see the drive.

The result: you can’t access the web dashboard or shared folders.

Step 2: Set a Static IP on Your Computer

To talk to the drive, temporarily assign your computer an IP on the same subnet.

Go to your Network Settings.

Set your Ethernet adapter (or Wi-Fi, if supported) to Manual IP mode.

Assign an IP like:

IP Address: 192.168.0.10

Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0

Gateway: Leave blank or 192.168.0.1

Save and apply the changes.

Step 3: Ping or Scan the Subnet

Try to ping the default IPs the drive may be using:

Alternatively, use a subnet scanner (like Angry IP Scanner) to find which IP responds.

Step 4: Access the Web Interface or Shared Folders

Once you identify the IP:

Enter it into your browser (e.g., http://192.168.0.2) to open the MyBookLive dashboard.

Map the network share to access files.

Optional: Reconfigure IP Settings

Once you’re connected:

Log in to the dashboard.

Navigate to Settings > Network > IP Settings.

Set a new static IP compatible with your current network’s subnet, or switch back to DHCP if your router supports it.

Final Thoughts

Even without DHCP, your MyBookLive HDD isn’t lost. By manually aligning your PC’s IP to the drive’s expected subnet, you can regain access and adjust network settings for permanent connectivity.