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a few questions about internet sharing and security

Hi, I have an iMac connected to my aparment complexes' wireless network. I realize this isn't the safest way to be online so I was wondering what I could do to protect my computer. When I open a finder window I see all the other computers listed in the "shared computers" menu and this makes me nervous that mine is showing up in others' finders as well. I would like to know how I can prevent everyone else from seeing my computer on our shared network, and possibly prohibit those that still can see my computer from getting access to it. Sounds a little perinoid I know, but it just bothers me to know people have potential access to my files and such. Also I have an Apple tv and wireless printer. I was wondering if there was a way to connect my own wireless router to my iMac (via the ethernet port) directly so that I would have an exclusive (to me and possibly my roomates) connection to wirelessly print, transfer media to/from the Appletv, and rent and buy things from the Appletv online, but also stay connected to the internet. I hope that wasn't confusing, but would appreciate any ideas.

2.0GHz iMac 20" Intel Core 2 Duo, Mac OS X (10.5.4), 2GB Ram, 250GB HD

Posted on Sep 13, 2008 11:22 PM

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2 replies

Sep 14, 2008 12:54 AM in response to jbloc

jbloc,

Well, the main problem for you is that you are on what is essentially a "public" network. As far as your Mac is concerned, however, all you need to do is turn your Firewall on and not run any services. It is only when you might run some service that your computer would show up in someone else's Finder (if it is another Mac), or in the "Network" window (in Windows).

Even when you do have services running, other users must have the proper credentials in order to gain access to those services.

Really, the only way to completely protect yourself and firewall your entire network would be to subscribe to some broadband service on your own, and have your router connected to whatever modem is supplied. The router would then be protecting your entire network, and only your devices would be connected. You would be the only one to see and potentially access those devices. Otherwise, you just have everything left out on a public network, and you would be dependent solely on the security you are able to set up.

Scott

Sep 14, 2008 5:07 AM in response to jbloc

You already got some good advice on what you should do, but if you decide to stay with the public wifi in your apartment complex, search around the internet for ways to protect yourself on public wifi. There are many articles written in the magazines and blogs that discuss the security issues of using public wifi.

One thing I can think of immediately is to find out if your email provider allows ssl connections. Just like ssl on your browser, ssl connections to your email will prevent anyone from intercepting your emails when you send and receive. If you use a webmail interface, then you are most likely using ssl to connect via your browser already. It's not that anyone will just randomly see your email; they would have to be actively snooping for it.

If you find something you don't understand or you need it translated from Windows to Mac, let us know.

a few questions about internet sharing and security

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