Ad Hoc Networks
A wireless network where the network-controls have moved from a central point to the points of network itself is called an ad hoc network. Ad hoc networks function independently of any wireless infrastructure like wireless routers, or access nodes. Ad hoc network is more to do with transmission of wireless signals from node to node dynamically rather than systematically. This means that ad hoc network protocols act according to network situations.
An ad hoc network is a computer-to-computer temporary Internet connection. It is often used to share files between two computers wirelessly. Remember, that you must have a wireless network to connect to another computer through an ad hoc network. Ad hoc is actually a communication mode.
The protocols detect surrounding wireless devices in a pre-defined range. Ad hoc networking is not confined to computers; it is also used on palmtops, and mobile phones.
Ad hoc networks are not configuration intensive. They are easy to deploy and run. It is for this matter that they are suitable for so many applications and appliances.
Ad hoc networks are widely used in disaster management situations, where wired or wireless network infrastructure has been damaged. Since ad hoc networks employ a protocol that is adapted to interact with different access points and to a directed location, they don’t need any extra deployment.
Ad hoc networks have some limitations though. Sometimes nodes or access points might have power problems. Also, there might be interference between a signal-way of one node to another.Node-networks should be able to keep-pace with the connect-disconnect dynamic mechanism of ad hoc networks. This means that ad hoc networks might need more technology to support their reliability.
To get your device to go the ad hoc network way, you need to configure your wireless network adaptor in ad hoc mode.All said and done, ad hoc networks don’t have the capability to get onto mainstream wired local area networks.
To do this, a network gateway has to be implemented. Ad hoc networks are only for building ad hoc wireless local area networks that are temporary. However, as more devices in this ad hoc LAN increases, connectivity speed slows down considerably. This is another drawback of ad hoc networks.
