Working in the Networks Pane
In the Networks pane (see Figure 1.12), you can click Yes or No to choose whether to let your computer find PCs, devices, and content on the network.
Working in the Networks Pane
FIGURE 1.12
In the Networks pane, choose whether to turn on Network Discovery for the network.
Clicking Yes in the Networks pane turns on a feature called Network Discovery that enables your computer to connect automatically to printers, TVs, and other devices on the network. Normally, it’s a good idea to turn on Network Discovery for home networks and for work networks, because it makes connecting to other devices easier. You can control Network Discovery separately for each network to which your computer connects.
Caution
If you connect your computer to a public network, such as a Wi-Fi hotspot in a coffee shop, you must make sure that Network Discovery is off for that network. Otherwise, your computer is exposed to all the other computers and devices on that network, which compromises your security.
Note
You can easily turn Network Discovery on or off later if necessary. You can also fine-tune your Network Discovery settings, allowing some types of connections but preventing others. See Chapter 3, “Connecting to Networks and the Internet,” for details.