Disabling netBIOS on XP?

Is it recommended to DISABLE netBIOS from Windows XP start-up?

I've heard that enabling it is a security risk....and disabling it might mess up your internet connection.

A little program called Windows Worms Doora Cleaner 1.4.1 recommends to disable it. (see screenshots)

Currently my ISP is AT&T Yahoo DSL.

Advice needed. Thanks.

 

Here are some remarks about this from Stem, a resident firewall and networking expert here.

 

Here is some more info about NetBIOS:

http://www.theeldergeek.com/tcp_ip_netbios_helper.htm

http://www.blackviper.com/WinXP/Services/TCP_IP_NetBIOS_Helper_Service.htm

 

For that box just click yes.

I too have AT&T Yahoo DSL and disabling NetBIOS has caused no problem for me.

 

Same here: using WWDC from Firewallleaktester never caused me any kind of problem either with dialup or broadband, with or without router with any kind of connection.

 

it's safe to keep on if you have a hardware firewall/router, but if you have a single computer with just a software firewall it's best to disable it.

you can find it by right-clicking on your network properties and selecting properties, then selecting IPv4 and selecting advanced and/or properties on the next few popups. i always disable the LMHash option in the same window, at least i think it's the LMH i thought that didn't sound quite right, it's this - LmHosts lol