Disable File Sharing in Windows XP

File sharing is enabled by default when Windows XP is installed onto your computer. This means any person or virus will be able to access your computer and its files without your knowledge, as long as file sharing is enabled (especially when on the same network). Assuming that you do not have any need to share the files on your hard disk with other computers, you should disable the sharing feature.

To completely remove file and print sharing:

• Click on Start->Settings->Control Panel->Network and Dial Up Connections
• Right-click on Local Area Connection and select Properties
• In the Networking Components section
    • Uncheck the item named File and Printer Sharing for Microsoft Networks
    • Click OK.

To disable Simple File Sharing on Windows XP Professional:

• Open My Computer
• Click on the Tools Menu->Folder Options-> View 
   • In the Advanced Settings Section, scroll to the bottom and
   • Uncheck 'Use Simple File Sharing (Recommended)'
   • Click OK

If you have reason to share files or printers, take the time to read up on how to do it in a secure fashion (by providing access to others via password protection). Visit Microsoft's site: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;304040 & http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307874