A method of transitioning a wireless networking device from a non-access point mode to an access point mode includes receiving a find network request from another wireless networking device and sending a find network response including beacon data and an identifier. The method includes receiving a join network request from the other wireless networking device and associating with the other networking device by transitioning from a default mode to an access point mode. The other wireless networking device then operates as a client device. Each wireless networking device in the default mode listens for other wireless networking devices seeking an access point for the wireless network. In the access point mode the wireless networking device periodically broadcasts beacons. Each wireless networking device transitions to a client-only mode, when limiting conditions are present.