Windows XP - Turning Off Simple File Sharing:

The default setting for new Windows machines is for "Simple File Sharing" to be turned on. This leaves your computer open to the entire local network, so we'll turn it off.

1. Open any folder - "My Documents" or "My Computer" are two options - and click on the "Tools" menu. From there, click on "Folder Options..." and then select the "View" tab.
2. Scroll all the way down and take a look at the last option. That option - "Use Simple File Sharing (Recommended)" - should be unchecked. Uncheck it if it is checked, then click "OK."
   
   
3. Only one more essential step before you can move to the optional steps that will make using your computer much less irritating and much more secure.