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I log on to various Wifi networks with my Vista laptop. The problem is, the other computers can view my Public (and any shared) directories, even though I have chosen Public Location when I logged on. Normal Windows Firewall is on.
This doesn't happen on my XP laptop using the same wifi networks - nothing is viewable on that, even the Public folders.
Mish
Posted 2011-03-16T11:57:30.430
Reputation: 21
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According to Microsoft Technet:
Configuring File and Printer Sharing Behavior in Windows Vista
Configuring file and printer sharing behavior in Windows Vista consists of the following:
So I'm guessing you have the options enabled and the computers which can see your shares have the same workgroup name.
If not, there is a chance that you have a compromised machine - some malware shuts down security options.
Rory Alsop
Posted 2011-03-16T11:57:30.430
Reputation: 3 168
But if I turn off File And Printer Sharing, then other users on my office network cannot access my files (and I want them to be able to). When I log on to wireless networks and set it to a Public location, it is supposed to turn off File And Printer Sharing for that wireless connection, isn't it? But it doesn't seem to. In the meantime, I have installed the free ZoneAlarm and that seems to make it as secure as I need it to be, yet I can allow my usual network to still work. I'd prefer not to rely on ZoneAlarm, though. – Mish – 2011-03-25T12:00:36.023
@mish why not rely on a firewall to do firewalling? That is exactly what it is for. – Rory Alsop – 2011-03-27T08:30:50.783