At the computer level, a network refers to the interconnection, through devices, of a certain number of computers or networks, regardless of redundancy. Which, through electronic impulses, electromagnetic waves or other physical means, have the ability to send and receive data packets, share your resources, and operate as an organized suite.
In this way, a wireless network is one that makes the connection of nodes by electromagnetic waves, without the need for a physical or wired connection. Taking into account that, one of the best known and used in different fields, are the Ad-Hoc networks which basically are a decentralized wireless network than supports access to different nodes directly And, thanks to that, it reveals important advantages for users.
So, due to its remarkable importance, it is worth knowing the most interesting aspects of an Ad-Hoc network, in order to specify what are they for. In addition to this, we will also indicate you what are its main features and benefits, as well as its most interesting components, benefits and disadvantages.
What is an Ad-Hoc Wireless Network and what is it for in computing?
Basically, an Ad-Hoc wireless network is a type of decentralized network that It is characterized by being point to point and thus, its nodes can communicate with each other independently of a fixed infrastructure. That is, does not undergo pre-existing infrastructuresuch as wired networks (or routers) or access point in managed wireless networks.
In this sense, within an Ad-Hoc network, each node is responsible for participating in routing through forwarding data to other nodes and, therefore, the determination of said nodes towards the data is carried out dynamically on the basis of the connectivity of the network in question. Consequently, all nodes have the same status within the network and are free to pair with any other Ad-Hoc network devices in the link range.
Therefore, since there is no structure for it, no need for a router or access point so that the communication between the sending of data and the reception of the same by the nodes there is carried out. Rather, it is the same components of the Ad-Hoc network that are responsible for communicating with each other to transmit information dynamically.
That is why, mainly, this type of network is suitable for home environments where it is preferred to obtain the least possible installation complexity. Also, they work perfectly to share a certain file between different computers or devices that belong to the wireless network and do not have Internet accessIn addition, they can also be implemented in circumstances of civil or natural emergencies.
What are the main characteristics of an AD HOC network?
Now, to know more about this type of decentralized wireless networks in order to manage them correctly, it is highly relevant point out its most valuable characteristics.
Next, we proceed to mention each of them:
- They are networks based on a system known as “Ad-Hoc mode”, which stands out for allowing the nodes to move freely and thus, do not depend on an established central domain. Therefore, the node may act as a host or as a router, depending on the transmission range of each of those present on the network.
- it's possible connect more than one laptop to an Ad-Hoc network, as long as all adapter cards are configured for Ad-Hoc mode and are linked to it SSID. Considering also that the teams must be located less than 100 meters from each other.
- In an Ad-Hoc network, there will always be an absence of infrastructure. This means that no type of centralized entity or structure will be found, because the devices can play the roles of host or router at any time.
- They stand out for present a variable topology and for this reason, the nodes have the possibility of moving and creating new links with other nodes belonging to their coverage area, basically.
- With respect to its autonomy, it is worth distinguishing that is limited. Which happens due to the portability of your devices that are restricted with respect to the battery life.
- Since the existing nodes are mobile, link breaking is frequent and thus, variations or changes in routes originate.
AD HOC network vs Standard WiFi Which is better and how are they different?
While it is true, many people wonder what are the differences between Ad-Hoc mode and a conventional WiFi network which refers to a technology that allows the wireless interconnection of electronic devices. Reason why, it is important to specify the differences between both types of networks and, with it, according to the requirements of each user, define which is the best:
Infrastructure
As we have emphasized throughout the post, the Ad-Hoc mode does not require a centralized access point and, therefore, it is characterized by being a decentralized wireless network. Consequently, the devices are in charge of connecting to each other in order to transport the data over the network in question, so they do not depend on a central router.
Instead, the technology of WiFi Standard usually works in infrastructure mode. In other words, communication between all the devices on a network it must be done from an access point, which is generally the wireless router. Thus, they are networks based on a pre-established infrastructure in wired network jump connections. Therefore, unlike AD HOC mode, in this case communication is done indirectly through the wireless access point to send and receive data packets.
Setting
As usual, Ad-Hoc networks are easier to configure. Since, if what you need is to link devices to each other to transfer files without using the Internet, these computers can connect directly with Ad-Hoc mode to thus form a temporary WiFi network, without the requirement of a wireless router for that.
On the other hand, WiFi Standard needs more advanced configuration, since these types of networks are ideal for create a permanent network. Taking into account that, the wireless routers will work as an access point thanks to their antennas and wireless radios of greater power that manage to cover a larger area.
Other differences
Which is better?
In order to determine the best wireless network between Ad-Hoc mode and WiFi Standard, everything will depend on the type of use that will be given. That is to say, ultimately, it will be the user's needs that define which kind of network is most suitable to achieve its mission.
Therefore, if it is required to transport data between several computers in an easy and fast way without having to use the Internet or use a central router to transfer the data, it will be best to use an Ad-Hoc type network. But, in case you need to create a permanent and more advanced network, it is recommended access a conventional WiFi network for it.
Uses of AD HOC What are the main applications of this type of network?
Due to their decentralized nature, Ad-Hoc networks are competent to a variety of applications where core nodes are not required, despite the fact that these are decisive for optimizing the scalability of centralized and managed wireless networks.
Then we name the main uses and / or applications of this class of wireless networks:
- They are very useful networks for share files or any type of data with several computers simultaneously, directly, without the need for it to have access to a WiFi network.
- They also apply to share the Internet connection from one computer to another, easily and quickly.
- They have optimal training for any emergency situation, such as: natural disasters or armed conflict. Since its configuration is minimal and its deployment is dynamic, since routing protocols can be quickly assembled.
- Its application in the domestic sphere is truly important and, today, it is very managed. For example, for the transfer of information between mobile devices via Bluetooth or between other devices (such as printers).
- It is an ideal mechanism to send files to another computer directly, when there are no memory cards or other removable media available.
- AD HOC networks can be used to participate in multiplayer network gamesThat is, on teams with multiplayer games.
What does it take to create an AD HOC network? Main components
Now, since its configuration is totally simple and its temporary creation can be carried out by any user, it is valuable to know what are each and every one of the components necessary to create an Ad-Hoc network easily. So at this point, We proceed to mention these elements that you must have when building a decentralized wireless network:
- Network interface board: It is necessary for each node to have these cards to gain access to the support of the specific cable network scheme.
- Wireless network cards: They are required to create an Ad-Hoc network, in any case; in order that they can be connected to each other.
- Work stations: Basically, they are computers or mobile devices that, within a network of this type, are known as “network nodes”.
- Shared resources: They refer to the different peripherals necessary to share the resources you want; this being the main purpose of an Ad-Hoc network. A clear example of them is a printer.
Again, it is valuable to distinguish that, for this type of configuration, an access point should not be used.
AD HOC Advantages and Limitations How convenient is it to install it?
Finally, to define how timely it is to create and install an Ad-Hoc network, one of the most important aspects to know are its main advantages and disadvantages. Taking into account that, from each of them, you will know how to clearly define if you require such a system in your home or at your workplace, for example.
Main benefits
For the benefits that Ad-Hoc networks exhibit for their users, of course, There are valuable advantages that must be taken into account when wanting to build such a network:
- Fortunately, its assembly is very easy to carry out and thus, the configuration should only be done for each node. Valuing that, it is very simple and some operating systems offer the possibility of configuring each computer from very few steps. Like Windows, for example.
- Making use of such a network, files and data can be shared quickly, in view of the fact that all the teams will remain directly interconnected and does not require a management process carried out by a central point. That is to say, it does not need an intermediary.
- No need for an Internet connection to be able to transfer information between devices directly.
- It is also an ideal mechanism for share internet connection with other computers And thanks to that, with very few resources, you can get a computer to work as a modem for the other machines in use.
- They are much cheaper than other managed networks. This, in view of the fact that there are no additional costs such as cabling to establish the connection to the central router.
Main limitations
However, not everything can be perfect and this kind of networks also reveal some limitations, drawbacks or cons that it is significant to consider before creating and using them.
Below, we point out these disadvantages:
- In this type of network, security is completely reduced. This is because all the nodes are connected to each other and in the event that an intruder manages to gain access to any of those nodes, it will be able to penetrate all the computers that make up the Ad-Hoc network.
- It is mandatory that all teams stay within the coverage area of others to be able to establish communication with them. Otherwise, the process will not be satisfactory.
- Since the nodes are interrelated with each other, while one of them disconnects, the entire network or at least part of it will be disarmed Composed of those nodes that are within reach of the one that was disconnected.
- Typically, nodes compete to enter wireless shared media and that competition results in collisions or interference which basically are caused by the transmission of two or more nodes simultaneously.
- In case the network cards used are not compatible, it will be impossible to connect in Ad-Hoc mode. Therefore, you have to make sure that this compatibility is mandatory.
- Just as there is little security in this type of network, so a very slow speed is observed, in most cases. Therefore, it is a kind of network that is not entirely effective.