How to Disable Home Network Places in an IBM ThinkPad

Home network services can be an unnecessary security risk.

IBM ThinkPad laptops with Windows 7 have the Home Group network servicepackage enabled by default. If you do not plan on configuring the computer to access Home Group network places, disabling this feature can free computer resources for other activities. Use utilities included with Windows 7 to disable Home Group network services.

Instructions

1. Click the "Start" button, then click "Computer" in the menu that appears. The "Computer" window will appear.

2. Right-click "Homegroup" in the left pane and click "Change HomeGroup settings" in the menu that displays.

3. Click the "Leave the Homegroup" link. Click the "Leave the Homegroup" confirmation button in the window that displays.

4. Click the "Start" button, then click the search box and type "services.msc" into it. Tap the Enter key.

5. Scroll down to the "HomeGroup Listener" service in the "Services" window and double-click on the service. Click the "Startup Type" box and click the "Disabled" option. Click the "Apply" button and click "OK."

6. Find the "HomeGroup Provider" service in the "Services" window and double-click on the service. Select "Startup Type," then select "Disabled." Click "Apply," then select "OK."

References

• Tweaking with Vishal; "How to Disable 'HomeGroup' Feature in Windows 7?"; Vishal Gupta;