You may quickly create a small network of AirPort-equipped computers without the use of a base station. AirPort 1.3 is also the first version of AirPort software to implement the IBSS standard.

Computer-to-Computer mode allows you to quickly create a small network between two or more AirPort-equipped computers. Other IEEE 802.11-compliant devices may also join the network. A Computer-to-Computer network does not require an AirPort Base Station. If you have difficulties with larger numbers of devices joining a Computer-to-Computer network, you should set up one computer as a Software Base Station or get an AirPort Base Station.

Note: AirPort 1.2 and later provide software base station capability. A preview version of the Software Base Station was included with AirPort 1.1.

AirPort 1.3 meets IBSS standard

AirPort 1.3 should work with IBSS networks created by non-Apple devices. The Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS or "Ad Hoc network") is a collection of stations that are able to communicate with each other directly in a manner defined by IEEE standard 802.11b. In an IBSS network, there is no central collection point for data packets. IBSS networks can be created at any time and by any station. After a station creates an IBSS network, other stations may join it. The IBSS network exists as long as one of the stations that created or joined the IBSS is still available. If one of the IBSS peer stations is a router and the other peers have the router set as their default gateway, then wireless packets have the means to enter and leave a wired network.

Setting up a Computer-to-Computer network

1. Choose the AirPort application from the Apple Menu
2. Choose Create Computer to Computer network from the Choose Network menu. A dialog box appears.
3. Enter the name of the network you want to create.




Figure 1 Computer-to-Computer dialog box

4. Click More Options if you wish to assign your Computer-to-Computer network a password or change the channel frequency away from the default of channel 1.




Figure 2 More Options

5. Your Computer-to-Computer network then becomes available to AirPort and compatible third-party devices within range of your computer, usually about 50 m.

1. If you are using a compatible third-party wireless device that has the ability to change channel frequency, check to be sure it is set to same channel as the computer that started the network.
2. In Computer-to-Computer mode, the signal strength meter in the AirPort portion of the Control Strip will always show three green dots.
3. If you are unable to use AirPort to access another AirPort-equipped computer, check to be sure that:
• The TCP/IP and AppleTalk control panels on both computers are set to AirPort.
• The target computer has started a Computer-to-Compter network, as illustrated in the AirPort application and Control Strip.
• The computers are within range of each other (typically up to 50 m).
• There are no sources of interference within range, such as a microwave oven or 2.4 GHz cordless phone.
• File Sharing is turned on in both computers' File Sharing control panels if you wish to connect with the Chooser or Network Browser.
4. If you do not set up a password for your Computer-to-Computer network, the security of your computer is dependent upon the File Sharing privileges. If you have Guest access turned on, anyone with an AirPort equipped computer in a 50 m range could connect to your computer. A network without a password is not encrypted.
5. Wireless internet access requires AirPort Card, AirPort Base Station, and Internet Access (fees may apply). Some ISPs are not currently compatible with AirPort, including America Online. Range may vary with site conditions.