[Novalug] Home network questions - newbie

[Jon LaBadie]

On Thu, Mar 18, 2010 at 07:31:38PM -0700, John Christopher wrote:
> Dear list,
> 
> My home network is currently set up as follows:
> 
> - I have a Verizion Fios mi424wr wireless router
> - An Ubuntu Linux desktop is connected to the router
>   via ethernet cable, and 2 printers are connected to
>   this computer
> - An Ubuntu laptop is connected to the router via
>   wifi
> - A MS Windows XP Pro desktop is connected to the
>   router via wifi
> - An iPod Touch is connected to the router via wifi
> 
> I am currently able to print only from the Ubuntu
> desktop, and would like to be able to share the
> printer with the other machines (file sharing would
> be helpful, also).
> 
> Is it safe to turn on printer sharing and file
> sharing?  Will the router protect the machines 
> connected to it?  If not, what additional
> hardware and software do I need?  What is the best
> way to configure everything to enable printer and 
> file sharing?
> 
Assuming you have not opened up any ports on the router,
it should protect you from outside attacks.  But make
sure your wireless is secure with good passwords and
encryption.

If your printers have an ethernet interface, I prefer
to put them on the network directly rather than attached
to a specific computer.

jl
-- 
Jon H. LaBadie                  jon at jgcomp.com
 JG Computing
 12027 Creekbend Drive		(703) 787-0884
 Reston, VA  20194		(703) 787-0922 (fax)