WLAN Adhoc Mode:
In adhoc mode, WLAN wireless network is composed of only stations (802.11 compliant NICs). There will not be any access point in the network. The networked systems i.e. stations communicate directly with one another. It is also referred as IBSS(Independent Basic Service Set) or peer to peer mode.
Here communication is directly over wireless radio waves and compliant to 802.11 packets.
Adhoc mode is suitable for quick wireless connection setup in office rooms, hotels or in places where wired infrastructure is not available.
How are infrastructure and ad hoc networks different?
| Infrastructure | Ad hoc | |
| Communication | Through an access point | Directly between devices |
| Security | More security options | WEP or no security |
| Range | Determined by the range and number of access points | Restricted to the range of individual devices on the network |
| Speed | Usually faster | Usually slower |
| Unique IP address for each device | Yes | Yes |
| Mode set to | Infrastructure mode | Ad hoc mode |
| Same SSID | Yes, including the access point | Yes |
| Same channel | Yes, including the access point | Yes |
