Ad Hoc Networking Mode; Infrastructure Networking Mode - Compaq 802.11b MultiPort Installation Manual

Ad Hoc Networking Mode

Also called "peer-to-peer" networking, this mode is the easiest to
deploy and is ideal for small offices. As a user on this type of
network, you are able to share files with other employees, print to
a shared office printer, and access the Internet through a shared
modem. However, with ad hoc networking your computer is only
able to communicate with other wireless computers that are
within range and in your wireless workgroup.
Advantages
Disadvantages

Infrastructure Networking Mode

The key difference between an infrastructure wireless LAN and
an ad hoc wireless LAN is the addition of one extra element—an
access point. Unlike "peer-to-peer" networking, where networked
computers send data directly to each other, networked computers
using the infrastructure networking mode communicate with each
other through a dedicated access point.
The 802.11b MultiPort Module is compatible with any WiFi
(Wireless Fidelity) interoperability certified access point, such as
the Compaq WL300, WL400, WL410, and WL510.
All data transmitted between two computers on the wireless LAN
passes through the access point.
Installation Guide
Simple to set up
Cost-efficient
Communication is limited to those who are in
range
Getting Started
1–3