File Sharing Windows XP Home PC

Disable unprotected File Sharing on Windows XP Home

If you use Windows XP Home Edition, then you should avoid sharing files over the campus network and make sure that file sharing is disabled on your computer. NOTE: File sharing is enabled by default when Windows XP Home is installed onto your computer. Since Windows XP Home does not support password-protected file sharing, any person or virus will be able to access your computer without your knowledge if file sharing is enabled. Follow the instructions below to disable unprotected file sharing.

1. Go to the Start menu and select the Control Panel.
2. In the Control Panel window, double-click on Network Connections.
3. Right-click on the Local Area Connection icon in the window that appears.
4. From the menu which appears, choose Properties (use the left mouse button to make your selection).
5. Under This connection uses the following items, highlight File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks. Note: If File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks is not listed, then file sharing was not set up on your computer. You may close any open windows and skip the rest of these instructions.
6. Click Uninstall.
7. When you are asked if you are sure you want to uninstall File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks, click Yes.
8. Click OK or Close to close the Local Area Connection Properties window.
9. If you are asked to restart your computer, click Yes. If you are not asked to restart your computer, from the Start menu, choose Turn Off Computer. In the Turn off computer window, click the Restart button to restart your computer.

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• Doug Chudzik
• Information Services
• Date Created: October 22, 2002
• Last Modified: June 2, 2003
• Expires: July 1, 2004