Why do I have a shared computer called 'desktop2'?

[ShinyMac]

I don't remember this icon being there when I first started my Mac, but I could be mistaken. There is a PC desktop next to me most of the time when I am on my mac. I am aware there is some kind of computer-to-computer file sharing thing, but I never set it up. I clicked the eject button, it just stays there afterwards though. Does anyone know why it is there?

Thanks!

 

[dejo]

Does anyone know why it is there?

It's a Windows computer that is on the same subnet of the network as you. And they have file-sharing turned on.

 

[Willis]

is your network passworded? if not, someone is on it

 

[ShinyMac]

There are three other computers on the same network at the moment they are all from Dell. The network does have a password.

If the file sharing is turned on, does that mean one of the other computers can see everything in my computer right now if they wanted to? Or do I have to put the files into the shared docs folder?

 

[Willis]

oh ok. No... Mac's can read windows very easily, but windows need a little more config to see a Mac

 

[ShinyMac]

How can I get rid of it?

 

[Willis]

How can I get rid of it?

find the offending computer and turn file sharing off?

 

[dejo]

If the file sharing is turned on, does that mean one of the other computers can see everything in my computer right now if they wanted to? Or do I have to put the files into the shared docs folder?

If you have File Sharing turned on for your Mac, then, somewhat, they can see things in your computer. Not everything though, unless they login as an administrator. But if you don't have File Sharing turned on, they won't even see your Mac.

How can I get rid of it?

Ask the owners of these PCs to log off your network?

Seriously, I'm curious how you are connected to your ISP. Can you give us more details? Routers, modems, etc.

 

[ShinyMac]

I have file sharing turned off on my mac... (assuming all I have to do is check system preferences)

I wish I could tell you how my connection is working, but I don't really know anything about how all that works. I don't know the difference between a router or a modem or what it all does! But we're on Verizon FIOS.... if that means anything....

 

[Willis]

Does that other computer live in your household?

 

[ShinyMac]

Yes, the computer is in the household, so I can't really ask them to leave.

 

[alphaod]

Yes, the computer is in the household, so I can't really ask them to leave.

Then is nothing you can really do; why does that bother you anyways?