Tech Tip

Working securely from wireless hot spots part 2

1.    Disable file and printer sharing

File and printer sharing is a feature that enables other computers on a network to access resources on your computer. When you are using your mobile PC in a hot spot, it’s best to disable file and printer sharing, because, when it’s enabled, it leaves your computer vulnerable to hackers. Just don’t forget to turn this feature back on when you return to the office.

a.    Click Start, and then click Control Panel.

b.    Click Network and Internet, and then click Network and Sharing Center.

c.    Under Change your network settings, click Choose homegroup and sharing options.

d.    Under Other homegroup actions, click Change advanced sharing options.

e.    Under File and printer sharing, select Turn off file and printer sharing, and then click Save changes.

2.    Make your folders private

When the folders on your mobile PC are private, it’s more difficult for hackers to access your files.
Windows 7 not only makes folders private by default but also requires passwords for shared or public folders. As a result, you’re already covered with these tips and tricks! But if you want to double-check that a folder is not public, simply right-click the folder in question, and then click Share with to see whether it is private or public. If it is public, turn Public folder sharing off. Here’s how:

a.    Click Start, and then click Control Panel. In the search box, type network, click Network and Sharing Center, and then, in the left pane, click Change advanced sharing settings.

b.    Click the chevron to expand your current network profile.

c.    Under Public folder sharing, click Turn of Public folder sharing (people logged on to this computer can still access these folders).

d.    Click Save changes. If you’re prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.

Repeat the steps above for each folder that you want to make private.

3.    Encrypt your files

You can protect your files further by encrypting them, which requires a password to open or modify them. Because you must perform these tips and tricks on one file at a time, consider password-protecting only the files that you plan to use while working in a public place.

4.    Remove sensitive data from your portable computer

If you’re working with extremely sensitive data, consider completely removing it from your portable computer. Save it on a corporate network share or on a password-protected site, such as Windows Live SkyDrive instead, and access it only when necessary.