Even after you disable local file and print sharing, Windows XP still leaves port 445 open and listening for incoming connections. If you are not using local networking, this can pose a security risk. To close this port you need to make a quick change to an entry in the Windows registry.

NOTE: It is very important that if you do not feel comfortable editing the registry or have never done it before that you avoid doing this right away and learn more about the Windows registry. Changing the wrong setting or changing a setting incorrectly can cause Windows to not function correctly.

Please be advised that Vectro Security takes no responsibility for any damage caused to the operating system.

Here are the step-by-step instructions to close port 445 in Windows XP:

1. Click "Start"
2. Click "Run..." 
3. Where it says "Open:" type "regedit"
4. Navigate to HKLM\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\NetBT\Parameters
5. Find the value "TransportBindName" and right-click it to open up a menu of options.
6. Click "Modify" (it is in bold text)
7. Where it says "Value data:" delete whatever is in the box so the box is blank. The blank entry is what closes the port.
8. Click "OK"
9. Close the registry and reboot. 

That takes care of it, now you are much safer from other machines on your local network, or if you are plugged into a cable modem without a router.

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