A method and mechanism for quickly and easily connecting wireless consumer electronic devices with each other without affecting other wireless devices in the vicinity, by bringing devices into close proximity while in a whisper mode of communication. In whisper mode, the reception and / or transmission capability is significantly reduced, limiting the distance over which the devices communicate, allowing for secure exchange of communications parameters The parameters exchanged in whisper mode may be used to enable unique, paired communication between the two devices, or between one of them and any other device already connected to a common network, when operating in their normal mode of operation, separated by any distance within the normal operational range of the devices.