Finder, locations, networks - multiple PCs

[Driftacus]

Hi, this is my first post and my first Mac!

I have noticed in finder, locations, networks there are multiple PC's visible. Can someone please advise if this is my Mac detecting wireless computers or something else? I have not yet been able to find a definite answer.

Image attached.

The first PC you can see in the screenshot is my Windows laptop.

MacBook Pro 16 inch, OS Catalina, i7, 32 RAM, 1TB SSD.

Thanks

 

[Raz0rEdge]

Assuming you are in a networked environment with other machines, they all have some level of sharing, file, screen, etc. enabled and the Mac is automatically detecting them for you.

If you click on the machines, depending on what is shared, you will be asked for credentials and if valid, you can access those shared resources.

 

[Driftacus]

Assuming you are in a networked environment with other machines, they all have some level of sharing, file, screen, etc. enabled and the Mac is automatically detecting them for you.

If you click on the machines, depending on what is shared, you will be asked for credentials and if valid, you can access those shared resources.

Thanks for your reply. I am not in a networked environment, a shared office sharing wifi. When I click on them there is no information other then computer name, I also cannot connect. I have the option to use Ethernet, so I will move to that and disable wifi.

 

[MacInWin]

WiFi *is* networked. It's just networked over wireless rather than wires. If you shift to Ethernet, you should still see those same machines. However, Ethernet is a good choice over WiFI because the speed of the interface is faster over the wire than wireless.

 

[Driftacus]

WiFi *is* networked. It's just networked over wireless rather than wires. If you shift to Ethernet, you should still see those same machines. However, Ethernet is a good choice over WiFI because the speed of the interface is faster over the wire than wireless.

I see. Thanks. Noted re internet speed, is there a way I can disable this? I assume technically they can see my Mac on the network also.

Main point id like to clarify is whether or not this is a security concern. Based on the replies so far I do not think it is an issue.

 

[IWT]

Main point id like to clarify is whether or not this is a security concern. Based on the replies so far I do not think it is an issue.

It’s not a security issue. It’s not a problem. Relax

Ian

 

[Driftacus]

It’s not a security issue. It’s not a problem. Relax

Ian

Thanks legend

 

[Slydude]

If sharing is turned off on your Mac they can't get to your information over the network. If you activate sharing on your Msc anyone trying to connect will be asked for credentials (username and password).

 

[Driftacus]

If sharing is turned off on your Mac they can't get to your information over the network. If you activate sharing on your Msc anyone trying to connect will be asked for credentials (username and password).

Thank you Slydude.