Kind of random, and I'm thinking it probably isn't possible, but here we go. As part of a pet project, I'm wanting to create a network, with wifi connections, that will attempt to connect to any wifi capable device that comes in range. Rather than having friends or family connect for themselves, the network automatically connects them. With limited access, for security reasons of course. But I don't know it this is even possible. Can a wifi router detect nonconnected devices in range? If so, I could use a daemon on the network to monitor. Even then, could a network connection be started serverside? Any help would be appreciated, even if it's just to tell me this is the fever dream of a madman

I'm pretty sure that a device won't allow a connection to nearby wi-fi unless the user tells it to. Otherwise just walking through a city would expose you to attacks from malicious wi-fi. Of course, there may be a security hole that lets this happen.