What is another term for an independent basic service set (IBSS)?

An independent basic service set (IBSS) is commonly referred to as an ad hoc network. This terminology is used because an ad hoc network is a type of wireless network that allows devices to connect directly to each other without a central access point or infrastructure. In an IBSS, devices communicate directly, facilitating peer-to-peer connections.

This type of network is beneficial for temporary networks or for situations where a fixed infrastructure is not feasible, such as during events or in emergency scenarios where immediate communication is needed. The characteristics of an ad hoc network align closely with the definition of an IBSS, highlighting the ability of devices to format their own communication paths dynamically.

In contrast, other terms do not accurately describe an IBSS. For example, an infrastructure network refers to a setup that relies on a central access point to connect devices, and a client-server network denotes a more structured approach where one or multiple clients interact with a central server for resources and services. A hybrid network implies a combination of different types of networks and does not specifically fit the decentralized nature of an IBSS.