well the support page for smartware states
NOTE: To update to this version of WD SmartWare, you need the following minimum requirements:
- Windows XP 32-bit Service Pack 3, Windows XP 64-bit Service Pack 2, Windows Vista or Windows 7.
- Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 or higher installed on your computer.
If you don’t already have the Microsoft .NET Framework 3.5 installed on your computer, you will be prompted to install it.
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Click here to download the Microsoft .NET 3.5 Framework SP1 updater
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Follow the instructions as prompted.
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Rerun the WD SmartWare software updater.
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Internet Explorer 7 or higher.
so having the most current net 3.5 probably is a good idea…