Windows file share "everyone"

[stars]

What security risks does the bring? If any? The computers are on a home network and have no ports forwarded on the router. Will only the computers on the home network be able to see the shares and the files within them? I want to make sure the files can not be accessed or seen except by the two machines.

 

[TankGuys]

Even behind a router, there are always security concerns.

By opening up file sharing you increase these risks. I would just share stuff that needs to be shared.

 

[stars]

Currently I'm just sharing one folder on one computer and moving any files that need shared to the shared folder. Mostly just media related files.

 

[JackMDS]

Functionally Sharing is Not a big risk on your own LAN.

However, in case of extra concerns, configure the two computers with static IP (or Static DHCP if your Router supports it).

Install a software Firewall on each computer, and restricted the trusted Zone ( http://www.ezlan.net/faq#trusted ) to the two IPs.

 

[nweaver]

Originally posted by: TankGuys
Even behind a router, there are always security concerns.

By opening up file sharing you increase these risks. I would just share stuff that needs to be shared.

the risk this introduces is minimal.

The biggest problem would be unsecured/poorly implemented wireless that can be hacked...then this would not be great. If you don't use wireless/have WPA with a strong key then I wouldn't stress about this.

 

[stars]

Thanks guys. I'm using wireless on the laptop to view media on tv using s-video. I have a very strong key. The server is wired to the router. I'm using Windows firewall on both machines too.

 

[ktwebb]

Off topic but if you have a way to use Component video cable, or better yet, DVI or HDMI then you'd see a significant improvement in image quality. S-Video is simply an unacceptable interface after using higher end methods to move video signals.

 

[stars]

I agree ktwebb. I do not view video on the tv enough to justify changing my current setup. Maybe, if at most, an hour or two per week.