kichat: Wireless iChat with no Base Station

Thanks to Philip Hayes (For iChat FAQs)

In order to use iChat between two (or more) Powerbooks via Rendezvous (when the two or more computers don't have access to an existing wireless network), you need to create a temporary "virtual" wireless network. The following are the steps I used to create a virtual network so that my Powerbook could talk to another Powerbook via Rendezvous (iChat) in these areas where no wireless network exists.

If no wireless network exists ( that the computers have access to), you need to create a virtual wireless network using one of the Powerbooks. Basically, the one Powerbook serves as a portable "Airport" router.

1. Create a new location called "On The Road" or what ever you want.

2. In Network Port Configuration (in the Network Control panel), I disabled all ports except Airport. This is probably not necessary but it made it less confusing. Close this control panel.

3. Under AirPort, in the Network Control Panel, make sure "Allow this computer to create networks" is checked.

4. Open "Internet Connect". This can be found in the applications folder.

5. Under the "Network" pop-up, choose "Create Network".

6. A pop-up window appears and allows you to name your network. Choose any name you wish. I chose to leave the default name of my computer. If you feel the need to protect your new temporary wireless network with security, click the options button.

7. Close up all the windows.

8. Now, on the other Powerbook, find the new wireless network and join it.

Thats all there is to it.