Is the password plaintext-secure for Opera file sharing?

It is said that Opera 10 allows common users to build a simple file server on their PC to share their files. In the age of web, this seems a wonderful idea. Opera recently announced that it will bind a very easy-to-use Web server-Unite in version 10. In this way, it can provide the file sharing function. This sounds good, and it is becoming a magic weapon for Opera to compete with new browsers such as IE8 and Firefox 3.5 in the future. But in terms of security, it seems that it is not so reliable.

Although Unite supports multiple operating systems such as Linux, MacOS X, and Windows, it is still alpha version.

What is Unite?

What can the built-in Unite Opera do? Theoretically, you can share files on your PC, such as photos and MP3 files, to anyone anywhere in the world. In addition, you can even use some small programs to set up your own real-time chat rooms or forums. In this way, a common user who does not have any professional IT skills can also easily set up their own PC-based file servers, chat rooms, and forums ". In the age of web, this seems a wonderful idea.

How do they do it?

Unite can be used as a browser or a Web server. With the built-in JavaScript applet, you can easily set up file sharing or set up some online services, such as forums. In fact, the user is not directly connected to your PC. They will be "mounted" to the Opera proxy server and then access the shared files you provide.

To provide and maintain file sharing, your PC must always open port 8840. To allow others to "access" you, they must be notified of your Unite URL. The URL consists of your PC name, your Opera user name, and your Unite service name. In addition, you can set a password. For example:

Http://yourPC.Operausername.operaunite.com/servicename/access_content/password

What should I pay attention?

Safe! Because the password is part of the URL and Unite does not take any encryption measures (that is, the password is in plaintext !), Anyone who listens to the Unite connection can easily obtain the password. We hope we can make better choices for future versions.

Conclusion: Although Unite does not provide any new technology or new concept, Opera does find the correct sense of application. If you are used to uploading your photos, music, and other private files to share with your friends and friends, choose Opera (maybe in the eyes of a real hacker, your PC is not much more vulnerable than professional servers ). However, if Opera cannot improve the security of the Unite, it won't have many opportunities in this round of browser competition.