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Is there a way to either standup an ad-hoc network that doesn't identify itself as such?

Or what is the easiest way to connect to computers over wifi, not using ad-hoc networking? I have full control over on windows7 box, and a laptop that locked down and running windows xp.

I'm asking because I need to share a file and our laptops, have ad-hoc network disabled, I will accept and free way to get the file from laptop to the windows 7 machine.

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can you not plugin a network cable between them? – anthonysomerset Jul 18 '11 at 13:07
I don't have one with me, but I can try when I get home. I know I can connect to my phone via a "hotspot" but I dont trust sending 2 gigs over the hotspot. I would like to think it is smart enough to not send over my data plan... but then again I dont know for sure... – Nix Jul 18 '11 at 13:09
This is a question for superuser.com. Voted to move. – womble Jul 18 '11 at 13:21
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2 Answers

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Most wNICs can be put in HOSTAP mode where they appear to be a WiFi Access Point; software required.
Or get a normal Access Point; you can usually find very cheap models for under $50 USD.

There is no other way that I'm aware of, though technically it should be possible to write software which abuses the wLAN interface as a serial transponder.

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So are you saying to be able to put a NIC in HOSTAP it would require software? – Nix Jul 18 '11 at 13:03
Depends on what OS you're running. Most *nix OSes have the ability to run in HOSTAP natively. Windows does not and needs additional software. – Chris S♦ Jul 18 '11 at 13:42
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Why not turn ad-hoc networking back on? It really does seem like the most appropriate way. There's no more security issues surrounding an ad-hoc network than there is with any other wifi network.

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I can't turn it back on, its locked down by admins. – Nix Jul 18 '11 at 13:18
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