What Is Ad-Hoc 11n?

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Benefit from faster wireless network speeds with the ad-hoc 11n feature.
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Some wireless networking adapters on computers, mobile devices and other wireless devices include an ad-hoc 11n function that you can enable or disable. Activating this feature allows the device to connect to the network of a wireless router using the 802.11n Wi-Fi mode.

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Ad Hoc Networks

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An ad hoc wireless network, unlike a standard wireless network, is a temporary network created for a specific purpose, such as a group of colleagues meeting in the same location to work collaboratively on an online document. When the last user logs out of the ad hoc network, the network is automatically deleted. You can set up a temporary ad hoc network from the Network Sharing Center on your Microsoft Windows computer.

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Wireless Networking Modes

Most home networks use the standard 802.11b, 802.11g or 802.11n Wi-Fi networking mode. The wireless modes offer different connection speeds, typically 11 megabits per second, or Mbps, for 802.11b connections to 54 Mbps for 802.11g and up to 150 Mbps for 802.11n. Routers that use the 802.11n mode also offer 802.11g compatibility to ensure that devices without 802.11n capabilities can still access the network.

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Wireless Adapters

The "Ad hoc 11n" advanced setting on a device's wireless adapter lets the device connect to an ad hoc network created on a router using the 802.11n Wi-Fi mode. The advantage of enabling this function is a faster connection when you connect to an ad hoc network. The 802.11n mode can also extend the range of the wireless network, allowing you to connect at greater distances from the router than is possible with an 802.11g or 802.11b connection.

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Setting Up Ad Hoc Networks

Check if enabling "Ad hoc 11n" improves the networking performance of your wireless device by setting up an ad hoc network. Access the Windows Network and Sharing Center from the computer's Control Panel. Click the "Set Up a New Connection" option, then click "Set Up a Wireless Ad Hoc (Computer-to-Computer) Network" followed by "Next." Windows launches the network setup wizard. When prompted, enter your Windows login password. You can also set a security passcode for the ad hoc network to prevent unauthorized access.

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