Ad-Hoc wireless security.
What it is, why it's dangerous
And how to disable it
On wireless networks, ad-hoc mode is a method for wireless laptops and devices to directly communicate with each other. Operating in ad-hoc mode allows wireless devices within range of each other to discover and communicate in peer-to-peer fashion without involving central access points (including those built in to broadband wireless routers).
If your laptop is set to run in ad hoc mode, someone nearby could establish an ad hoc connection to your laptop without you knowing about it.
They could then possibly wreak havoc on your system and steal files and personal information. There are villains who create these types of networks, usually in popular areas like cafes, in hopes to get access to your laptop or mobile device.
There are some valid uses of ad-hoc mode, but unless you have a specific reason for enabling, your safest and best course of action is to disable ad-hoc mode to prevent risky associations.
How To Disable Ad-Hoc Mode
Ad-Hoc Wireless Networking Instructions
The fix is simple: Turn off ad hoc mode. Normally it's not enabled, but it's possible that it's turned on without your knowledge. To turn off the ad-hoc wireless network mode in Windows XP:
1. Right-click the wireless icon in the System Tray.
2. Choose Status.
3. Click Properties
4. Select the Wireless Networks tab.
5. Select your current network connection.
6. Click Properties, then click the Association tab.
7. Uncheck the box next to "This is a computer-to-computer (ad hoc) network."
8. Click OK, and keep clicking OK until the dialog boxes disappear.
In Windows Vista, there's no need to do this, because you have to take manual steps in order to connect to an ad hoc network; there's no setting to leave it turned on by default.
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