Built ad hoc network startup scripts (works) but as much as I have read cannot determine how the encryption key functions nor how a transmitting node can determine which port a receiving port has implemented without prior verbal agreement. I intend to add VOIP so would like to "dial up" with a one ringy dingy at least.
I just learned from one site that this is done by using identical means of encrypting and decrypting but this is not making sense to me if it is as claimed to be "somewhat" secure (wep vs wpa). Brief explanation is OK or a http.

You mention ports and encryption. What protocol are you talking about?

How the encryption key functions? To set up a connection, you use a key pair - you keep your private key, the other side gets your public key. And vice-versa. Data is encrypted with the public key and decrypted with the private key. Since this is CPU-intensive, the parties then exchange symmetric keys over the secure channel they created with the key pair. A new channel is set up, and the same key is used for encryption and decryption.

How does a transmitting node know the port that the other side uses? By convention, and/or it's hard-coded. Some protocols feature something like a port discovery, but for the first contact to the other party, you always need to know what port they use.

Can you share that site that you mention?

I don't understand the references to WEP and WPA, which are methods for making wireless connections secure, and I don't know what you mean by Brief explanation is OK or a http.

@berndbausch: you are describing WPA password for an Access Point. I am using ad Hoc which has a single encryption key and is WEP which I accept is poor security. From what I gather it is either 5 alpha numerics, 13 hex or (recall poor on this) of 26 hex characters exactly. That I am certain of. What I do not understand is IF it is for data encryption I would presume that both parties know the key, ah priori. How else would the receiver unencrypt data??? What I am after is EXACTLY what is the "KEY", password or encrypter??? If the latter how can the receiver know how to decrypt info, unless the decryption uses real magic to do multiple decryptions until it discovers the "KEY" that works (ah! howto hack).

Currently planning on setting up a KNOWN port in which to leave port numbers of the receiver for the sender to use else will use dual ports one to send the other to receive.

Don't have sights anymore and there were in excess of 20.