If me and my neighbor share a wireless network, if they get a virus can it infect my computer?

If me and my neighbor share a wireless network, if they get a virus can it infect my computer?
My neighbor asked if she could use my wireless on occasion. I don’t have a problem with it, but I don’t know if she has a virus scanner and firewall. If her computer gets infected or something happens to it will it trickle down to my computer? Can she view files on my computer/ see where I go? I do have a fire wall. Should I just tell her to go get her own or I’m safe?

THANKS so much! :)
umm. I didnt notice “share folders”.. I don’t intend to? Can I not?
password is all :)
ty pc for the info :)

Best answer:

It’s possible, if you plan to share files with each other, but keep in mind that your connection will be slower then hers, as you are farther away from the router, so it will be a little slow for you.

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6 Comments for If me and my neighbor share a wireless network, if they get a virus can it infect my computer?

  • 1. Jasper  |  April 8th, 2007 at 2:01 am

    No, anything she gets is on her. You have a firewall on your router. right ? You have let her use the password is all. right ? ~

    Edit : Now with the additional info, You are indeed safe. You did not indicate you were sharing files, just allowing her to use your wireless service.

  • 2. smerf_killer  |  April 8th, 2007 at 2:58 am

    Well in theory yes it is possible since the virus did get downloaded through the air to your friends computer. A Trojan Horse could be programed to attack all networked computers. Just make sure you are behind a firewall and have protection like Nortons running with the latest updates.

    The chances are slim because it takes many many many hours to program a virus like that and they are mostly used to attack high profile systems.

  • 3. RAYDEN  |  April 8th, 2007 at 3:43 am

    Always a possibility if you share folders have you notice a option that say share folders? make sure your computer has you anti-virus and spyware up to date

  • 4. Dunbar Pappy  |  April 8th, 2007 at 4:09 am

    Contrary to some posts above, there are ‘network aware’ malware items: a glowing example is Conficker. They can migrate across networks, given the correct conditions.
    For instance: if your firewall were to ever be down for a moment, for what ever reason; this would create a gap in defense which may lead to the migration.
    Other subtle vulnerabilities could and may exist for network poisoning.

    Sharing a WiFi with neighbors can lead to entanglements and problems, and although it’s a neighborly thing to do: stick with exchanging baked goods and pleasantries, not data transmission technology.

    Added: File sharing is a computer setting (not router one).
    Turn off (aka ‘unbind’) printer & files sharing :
    XP is Start> Control Panel> Network Connections> right click ‘Wireless Network Connections> Properties> General tab: here, uncheck “File & Printer sharing…”> OK out.
    Vista/Win7 is somewhat different:
    To access these settings go to Control Panel (All control panel items)> Network and Sharing Center> Change advanced sharing settings.
    There are 2 basic modes: A) Home & Office; or B) Public. Each of which can be tailored to suite your particular situation.
    Sharing network resources with uncertain members should ONLY rely on the Public configurations, with maximum lock down. Keep as much as possible blocked/turned off to prevent snooping.
    Read what each topic does and decide if it’s what you want.
    Always use a stout firewall.

  • 5. Unixmen 24/7.......  |  April 8th, 2007 at 4:13 am

    Yes your computer is infect from your neighbour computer if she had virus on computer

  • 6. Your PC Tech  |  April 8th, 2007 at 4:59 am

    Dunbar Pappy and Unixmen. Good answers!

    I only answer this way to emphasize the good information from obviously experienced people — even though it won’t improve my “numbers” (which is not my reason for contributing here.)

    MANY “Top Contributors” on Security provide absolutely incorrect answers that can cause harm to the asker’s computer and/or data.

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