IP Addresses: Is It a Danger to my PC's Security for My IP Address to be Known?

[bigsilly]

Hello!

I've noticed that some of the peer-to-peer programs I use are broadcasting my IP address to other users. I believe that mIRC does this, too.

Doesn't this make it easy for someone to try to hack my PC? Should I be worried?

I have Windows Firewall, Trend Micro PC-illin, and a-squared. My Windows account has no password set on it. Is that enough to protect me from people who know my IP address?

 

[ninelven]

If you are really concerned, just use a router. Then all you have to worry about is if the program you are using is exploitable.

 

[bigsilly]

Is there a software equivalent to a router?

 

[digitalwanderer]

Yes, it's called a "firewall".

 

[ninelven]

Not really, if you have an old pc laying around you could throw on a free copy of a linux distro to use it as a router/hardware firewall.

http://dailycupoftech.com/2007/09/17/put-that-old-computer-to-good-use/

But you can pick up a decent router these days for under $30 bucks if you don't want to go to the trouble. I'm assuming you are on broadband of some sort?

EDIT: I really can't imagine relying solely on a software firewall, but to each his own... FWIW, most modern gateways have built in NAT these days which many find sufficient.

 

[Bludd]

Even this forum knows your IP. If you are concerned about someone knowing your IP, you should use a proxy or The Onion Router or something.