simple secure network

I have a linksys wireless router and 3 pcs all running Windows XP (SP2). I
need to set up a secure network, so that I can share files/printers etc
within my little workgroup, without the worry of my pcs/broadband connection
being infultrated.

Any suggestions - I am a novice

Thanks in advance

Steve

First use WPA if your using wireless. and your hardware supports it..

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u...ssecurity.mspx
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u..._05june13.mspx
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u...ebruary10.mspx
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u..._03july28.mspx

Secondly use a software firewall on each PC/laptop...

I use the XP SP2 Windows Firewall on all of my desktop PCs and my laptop. In
my case I configure a custom address scope for File & Print Sharing in the
Windows Firewall so only specific PCs on my network can access each others
shared files/folders... Others may suggest third-party firewalls like
ZoneAlarm, Sygate, etc. That is personal preference...

http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/u...2_wfintro.mspx
http://support.microsoft.com/default...b;en-us;875357

Other references...

http://www.broadbandreports.com/forum/remark,14743349

--

Al Jarvi (MS-MVP Windows Networking)

Please post *ALL* questions and replies to the news group for the mutual
benefit of all of us...
The MS-MVP Program - http://mvp.support.microsoft.com
This posting is provided "AS IS" with no warranties, and confers no
rights...

"Steve Hughes" <(E-Mail Removed)> wrote in message
news:C8C7A8FB-26D4-40E5-87CC-(E-Mail Removed)...
>I have a linksys wireless router and 3 pcs all running Windows XP (SP2). I
> need to set up a secure network, so that I can share files/printers etc
> within my little workgroup, without the worry of my pcs/broadband
> connection
> being infultrated.
>
> Any suggestions - I am a novice
>
> Thanks in advance
>
> Steve