A smart detection and recovery method is implemented in a terminal for detecting statuses of a host. The method comprises steps of: receiving a datagram; determining if the datagram complies with a predetermined format? If “YES” then proceed; determining if a MAC address contained in the datagram is the same with a currently used MAC address pre-stored in the terminal? If “YES” then proceed; determining if an IP address contained in the datagram is the same with a currently used IP address pre-stored in the terminal? If “NO” then re-connect or guide the terminal to the IP address contained in the datagram, if “YES” then handle the datagram by normal operations. Therefore, changes of the IP address of the host can be detected as early as possible, such that the terminal can be re-connected or guided to the host and services of the host can recovered as soon as possible.