How to Disable SMB Signing Within a CIFS Environment

Server Message Block, or SMB, is a protocol that allows computers running the Windows operating system to share resources such as files or devices over a local network. The overall component that allows Windows to share such resources over a network is known as the Common Internet File System, or CIFS. If you are running a server version of Windows such as, for example, Windows Server 2008, you can deactivate SMB by following a specific procedure.

Instructions

1. Click on the "Start" button and select "All Programs." Open the "Administrative Tools" folder and click on "Active Directory Users and Computers."

2. Select the current domain that is currently assigned to your computer from the left-hand pane. Click on the "+" sign next to it to open the menu, then right-click on "Domain Controllers."

3. Click on "Properties" and open the "Group policy" tab.

4. Select "Default Domain Controllers Policy" and click on the "Edit" button. Select "Computer Configuration."

5. Expand "Windows Settings," "Security Settings" and "Local Policies." Select "Security Options" and right-click on "Microsoft network server: Digitally sign communications (always)" in the right-hand pane.

6. Select "Properties" and click on the button that is next to "Disabled."

7. Click on the "OK" button to confirm your new settings.

Tips & Warnings

• You must be logged on as an administrator to deactivate SMB on a network.