The only security protocol supported is the vintage WEP encryption, but it’s better than nothing. Ad hoc networks are not compatible with WPA or WPA2 protected networks. The Security pop-up menu allows you to select password encryption.

Select the level of security for your ad hoc network. The default channel is 11, but if you think there may be reception problems from adjoining networks, you can choose a different channel.ģ. You configure your ad hoc network via the Create a Computer-to-Computer Network panel.Īdditionally, you can specify a Wi-Fi channel from the pop-up menu. Give your ad hoc network a name, or accept the default which is your computer’s name (found in the Share Preferences panel). Click Wi-Fi and select the Show Wi-Fi status in menu bar checkbox.Ģ. If the icon is missing from the menu bar, go to System Preferences > Network.

From the Wi-Fi Status icon in the menu bar, choose Create Network. You create an ad hoc network via the Mac’s Wi-Fi Status menu.ġ. It’s all done on the Mac let me show you how. You can create an ad hoc network between two or more computers and hand-held devices without using an AirPort Base Station or other router. Apple’s official name is Computer-to-Computer Network, but I’ll go by the more common moniker, Ad Hoc Network. You need to get one or more devices talking – perhaps for sharing or transferring files, playing your favorite multiplayer network game, or using OS X’s AirPlay functionality for such things as classroom visualization of an iOS device on a Mac screen.Īnd so, we’ve established our “particular reason” to create a Wi-Fi network for a one-time use. Nevertheless, there are times when you do not have a network connection of any sort. One of the last bastions of Wi-Fi-free environments – the airliner – is joining in on the fun of ubiquitous Internet.

Nowadays, many of us are able to take for granted the availability of Wi-Fi networks. It’s a decentralized wireless network – that is, no router required.īefore writing this short how-to, I was curious as to the actual definition of the expression “ad hoc.” According to OS X’s built-in New Oxford American Dictionary, it’s an adjective that means 'done for a particular reason.' OS X has the capability of creating what is commonly referred to as an ad hoc network.

Ad hoc network mac address