What is the purpose of an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS)?

The purpose of an Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS) is to enable direct communication between wireless devices without the need for an access point (AP). In this configuration, devices can communicate with each other in an ad hoc manner, which is beneficial for scenarios where a wireless infrastructure is not available or when devices need to connect temporarily without the overhead of a centralized network. Each device acts as a peer, facilitating a decentralized network that allows for the sharing of resources directly among connected devices. This setup is particularly useful in situations such as meetings or collaboration sessions where users quickly need to exchange data without relying on a traditional network setup.

The other options relate to different aspects of wireless networking. Connecting multiple access points is typical of an Extended Service Set (ESS), which provides a larger coverage area. Centralized management is associated with wireless LAN controllers and infrastructures that manage multiple APs and devices optimally. Serving as the main access point implicates the functioning of a basic service set (BSS), which utilizes a single AP to manage client connections instead of allowing peer-to-peer communication as in an IBSS.