If it is a shortcut then either a user or an application placed it there and
it can be deleted. If it is actually part of the "network browse list" then
it can not be deleted, but should fade away after a day or so, and it may be
there because of netbios over tcp/ip network connectivity allowed via your
network, possibly through a VPN connection. Double check your firewall to
make sure it is properly configured. You can go to one of the self scan
networks such as
http://scan.sygatetech.com/ to check for basic
vulnerabilities. Since something unusual has happened to your network be
sure to run a full anti virus scan being sure to use the latest definitions
from your products website. There are free products available if you need a
antivirus program. Also use AdAware or Microsoft Spyware beta to scan your
computer for parasites. Make sure you are using hard to guess passwords for
your user accounts and change them.
Another possibility exists since you are using wireless. If your wireless
network is not secure another user may be using your network through your
wireless or you may even unknowingly have accessed another local wireless
network that is not protected. That information should be available in the
utility for your wireless network adapter, such as what wireless networks
are available. Make sure your wireless network is protected either with WEP
or WPA which will not allow access to your network unless others know for
"key/password" for your wireless access point. WPA is the preferred method
but WEP is better than nothing . If using WEP be sure to change your key
right away and then periodically like at least once a month. I also
recommend that you upgrade to Service Pack 4 for Windows 2000. --- Steve
http://www.netgear.co.uk/securing_wireless_network.php --- tips on wireless
security.
http://free.grisoft.com/freeweb.php/doc/2/ -- free for home use anti virus.
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/security/protect/default.mspx --- Protect
your PC tips.
