Abstract: A method includes generating, at a first station, a security key that is usable for authentication with an access point associated with a wireless network. The method includes switching from an infrastructure mode to an ad hoc communication mode, and while in the ad hoc communication mode, broadcasting a beacon frame and receiving a request, from a second station, to join the wireless network. The method includes determining that the second station is an approved device and sending a first authentication request to the access point on behalf of the second station. The method includes receiving a first authentication response, including challenge text, from the access point. The method includes encrypting the challenge text based on the security key and sending the encrypted challenge text as part of a second authentication request to the access point to authenticate the second station with the access point.