Disable Open Shares
Windows has a file and printer sharing option that is enabled by default on your computer. While it can be a useful for some environments where this type of sharing is needed, it can be detrimental to your computer’s security when you are on the residential network.
With File and Printer Sharing enabled, any person or virus may be able to access your computer without your knowledge. As most student will not need this feature, we strongly recommend you disable this function.
Disable open shares in Windows XP
- Click Start > Control Panel > Network and Internet Connections > Network Connections
- Right-click Local Area Connection and select Properties
- Under “This connection uses the following items,” uncheck the box labeled File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks
- Click OK to close the Local Area Connection Properties window
- Close all windows and restart your computer





