A network of M devices such that M31 and methods for devices to join and leave the network. Each device of the network has a real or virtual token counter that stores a token count of not less than zero. An equation M+S = K must be satisfied. S denotes the number of tokens in the network and is numerically equal to a summation of the token counts over the M devices. K is a characteristic integer constant of the network having a value of at least 2 and is established upon creation of the network. Each device has a controller for connecting and communicating with at least one other device when M>1. The network has network rules, comprising a joining rule for effectuating a non-network device joining the network and a leaving rule for effectuating a network device leaving the network.