noob question on security

[richfield]

Hi,

I'm a newbie to this security business, but I need some advice for a problem, basically I've just moved into a new house and we have a shared broadband internet connection via a LAN, the thing is one of the other guys is a computer expert and I know he is accessing my computer, this guy is quite good at Computers and I think he can access my files, I've just turned on Windows XP Firewall to try and stop him but I feel he can still get round this?

Is there anything else I could install? do to protect myself from him? and at the same time be able to surf the net without a popup on everysite I visit saying are you sure you want to visit this site which is what happened when I installed Zone Alarm.

Thanks

Rich

 

[wybnormal]

Buy a real firewall or build one from Linux and iptables. THe personal firewall from MS is pretty marginal at best. There are other personal firewalls that work better like Kerio or McAfee. I use both of these with good success when I go to a clients LAN. THe real firewall will set you back about 200-400 dollars but are very effective. Firebox, Watchguard, Sonicwall, Checkpoint, PIX 501 are just a few of the SOHO versions.

There are several Linux based firewalls that are free for the home user with a limit of 5 or so IP numbers. Astaro, SMoothwall and Gibraltar are a few. Gibraltar is pretty cool as it runs from the CDR so it is immune to being compromised without you knowing it as a simple reboot puts everything back to normal. I personally like the interface of Gibraltar but any of the three work well.

The free side has Shorewall and IPCOP (and many others). Shorewal is a CLI tool and IPCOP is a GUI based firewall. If you just want to use iptables for a simple lock down, Firestarter is very nice with a GUI interface and an easy learning curve.

All of these are detailed at

http://www.lulul.com/packetpress

MikeS

Find me at

http://www.packetattack.com

"Take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots."
Sun Tzu