An ad hoc network is a type of temporary computer-to-computer connection. In ad hoc mode, you can set up a wireless connection directly to another computer without having to connect to a wireless access point or router.
Ad hoc networks are useful when you need to share files or other data directly with another computer but don't have access to a wireless network (e.g., if you're a visiting client or partner to a different office and aren't able to get on their network). You can also use Internet connection sharing with ad hoc mode to share your Internet connection with other users.
Another feature of ad hoc networks is that more than one laptop can be connected to the ad hoc network, as long as all of the adapter cards are configured for ad hoc mode and connect to the same SSID (service state identifier). The computers need to be within 100 meters of each other.
Also, if you were the person who set up the ad hoc network, when you disconnect from the network, all of the other users will also be disconnected. An ad hoc network will also be deleted once everyone on it disconnects -- which can be good or bad, depending on your view; it's truly a spontaneous network.
For file and printer sharing, all users will need to be in the same workgroup, or, if one computer is joined to a domain, the other user(s) will have to have accounts on that computer in order to access shared items.
Other limitations of ad hoc wireless networking include: WEP security (i.e., not secure at all), support up to 802.11g, and a data rate of 11 Mbps.
Newer Wi-Fi Direct technology elminiates many of the ad hoc wireless network limitations and is more secure, but until that technology is more widespread, you can Set Up an Ad Hoc Wireless Network and use it to Share Internet Access on one computer to many devices.
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