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When a computer running an older version of XP can't find any of its "favorite" wireless networks, it will automatically create an ad hoc network with the same
by ajg1977 16y ago
When a computer running an older version of XP can't find any of its "favorite" wireless networks, it will automatically create an ad hoc network with the same name as the last one it connected to -- in this case, "Free Public WiFi." Other computers within range of that new ad hoc network can see it, luring other users to connect. [...] Computers with the XP bug that try to connect to the Internet will remember the name, create their own ad hoc networks and entice other users wherever they go.
If this was the case, wouldn't we see all manner of oddly named hotspots at airport locations, and wouldn't they also propagate as people try to connect to them?
I suspect this story may have been "simplified" to the point where the interesting details have been lost.
- dedward 16y agoNope - because people very rarely create ad-hoc networks these days - full infrastrucure-mode APs are everywhere - the only time people tend to select ad-hoc without realizing it tends to be he one called "Free Public Wifi" - it just happens to show up in airports and hotels and is passed around from machine to machine because of the name. Lots of people try it out (it never actually works) - but it's enough for the netowork name to keep propagating.