Is this unknown object in Explorer's network area a security threat?

GokAy said:

Passphrase is to join wireless network but doesn't necessarily let anyone access your PCs. They can now because password protected sharing is off.

Thanks, I understand now. I will try to configure the LM method again.

I don't know if using password protected sharing will require having a username/password on Win98, but if so, the current configuration of the Win98 is that I don't have to login with a username or password. I suspect I must change that. I am concerned about what will happen to my files and configuration -- as they are at the C:\ level and not in a C:\users\ folder. Fortunately most of my work is on drive E:\ which should not be affected. Is there any special consideration about that kind of change -- in order to use the new identity in place of my current setup?

Some routers allow setting a guest WiFi network, which doesn't allow access to the main network. Check the wireless section of your router.

My R7000 router does allow setting up a guest network.

You could just set a guest network and don't bother with password protection then. The guest network will have its own SSID and set a different password for it. You can then check it with your app while connected to guest.

It is supposed to, yes.

The guest SSID is successful. It puts out its own separate connection name and connects only to the internet and not to my network. I gave it a simple password. Guests can connect to it and be on the Internet by cell phone - it works well.

GokAy - I appreciate your guidance.

Anytime :)

For the record, I can see the cell phone on the router's "attached devices" window -- both when connected as guest or connected into the network.

But my phone doesn't appear on File Explorers of the computers, even though the various unknown objects (phones, cameras, routers ) still do.