Network security query

  • Thread starter Thread starter franktee
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franktee

Hi all
I have two Dell Inspiron computers presently networked together via a
Netgear router. Would it be possible for me to find out if any other computer
in my immediate area can be able gain access to my computers? I am a total
novice at networking, (someone else hooked up my networking setup), and I
don't know what other info to supply in order for anyone to advise me on
finding out the answer to my question. Appreciate any helpful response.
Thanks in advance.
franktee
Windows XP, Firewalled, Avast AV
 
Hi
Immediate area is a geographical description; you can have a computer that
is 1†from your computer, yet it would not be able to access your computer
if it is on another network.
Alternatively, you can have a computer on the other side of the world
(20.000 miles away) that is configured to connect to your network and can
see your computer.
You need to explain Network wise what it mean by immediate area.
I.e. are talking about computers that are connected to your Router LAN side,
or computer that are on the Internet using other connections that is Not
yours.
Jack (MVP-Networking).
 
Hi all
I have two Dell Inspiron computers presently networked together via a
Netgear router. Would it be possible for me to find out if any other computer
in my immediate area can be able gain access to my computers? I am a total
novice at networking, (someone else hooked up my networking setup), and I
don't know what other info to supply in order for anyone to advise me on
finding out the answer to my question. Appreciate any helpful response.
Thanks in advance.
franktee
Windows XP, Firewalled, Avast AV
Click to expand...

Frank,

Do you own and control the router? Does it provide WiFi connections? If you
control the router and if it does not provide WiFi connections, then you simply
ensure that no unknown computers are connected to the router LAN.

If the router provides WiFi connections, then you use WiFi security, and prevent
unknown WiFi connections.
<http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/05/setting-up-wifi-lan-please-protect.html>
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/05/setting-up-wifi-lan-please-protect.html

If you want to ensure that there are no other computers connected, use something
like Angry IP Scanner or SoftPerfect Network Scanner, and see what's connected.
<http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2006/12/knowing-whats-on-your-lan.html>
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2006/12/knowing-whats-on-your-lan.html

In general though, if your computers are behind a Netgear ("NAT") router, they
are safe from other computers accessing their Windows Networking connections
from outside the router LAN. As long as you practice layered security.
<http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/05/please-protect-yourself-layer-your.html>
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/2005/05/please-protect-yourself-layer-your.html

--
Cheers,
Chuck, MS-MVP 2005-2007 [Windows - Networking]
http://nitecruzr.blogspot.com/
Paranoia is not a problem, when it's a normal response from experience.
My email is AT DOT
actual address pchuck mvps org.
 
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