security concerns over common router

[lancerev08]

Hi,

I'm not too familiar with how networking/routers work...

If you have a home setup with a wireless router, and 2 computers connecting to the internet, this doesn't automatically constitute as a"network," does it? Are they still 2 separate entities doing their own thing and just sharing a common router?

I'm just worried if there could be any security breach from one computer to another (eg. the other person connecting to my computer and going through my files. I guess if you have a "shared folder" they might. But I don't have any folders shared).

I'm just in a situation where I have some new roommates for a few months (friend of a friend so not a total stranger!). Not that I don't trust these people, I'm just paranoid.

If someone could put my mind to ease, I'd greatly appreciate it!

Thanks.

[mojo]

Yes actually, that does constitute a network. They will have access to anything that's shared on your computer. If you don't have anything explicitly shared and the person in question isn't an IT expert, you should be fine, but if you're worried make sure you have a firewall. The one built into windows is good enough as long as you check the exceptions and block anything you don't want open.

[lancerev08]

Ah okay. Ya, should be just a regular Joe Schmoe (no IT expert).

So Windows Firewall is generally good enough? Actually, I always wondered about free wifi spots too. In that case you could be vulnerable as well, right? Since everyone in that area can connect. Would Firewall protect you enough in that case?

[mojo]

Anytime multiple people are connected to the same router, it's a network. A properly configured firewall should protect you there as well.