👉 What is a Net in Ham Radio? | Beginner’s Guide

Ever heard someone say, “I’m checking into the net at 7” and wondered what that means? 🤔 In this video, I break down exactly what a ham radio net is, the different types of nets you’ll encounter, and why they’re such an important part of amateur radio.

From traffic nets that move official radiograms, to emergency and public service nets like ARES, RACES, Skywarn, and the Hurricane Watch Net, nets are where ham radio operators sharpen their skills, practice discipline, and serve their communities. You’ll also learn about club nets, training nets, social nets, and even special-interest nets like satellites, digital modes, and swap shops.

I’ll also explain the role of Net Control Stations (NCS)—the “traffic cops” of the airwaves—who keep things running smoothly and ensure operators can check in clearly and efficiently. Whether you’re new to ham radio or just curious about what happens during a net, this guide will give you the confidence to participate.

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What You’ll Learn in This Video:

✅ What a ham radio net actually is

✅ Different types of nets (traffic, emergency, club, social, training, special interest)

✅ How to check into a net properly

✅ The role of Net Control Stations

✅ Why nets matter for community, discipline, and emergency readiness

Timestamps:

00:00 – What is a Net?

01:13 – Ham Radio Prep Sponsor

01:57 – Types of Nets Explained

03:16 – Radiograms & Traffic Nets

04:03 – Emergency & Public Service Nets

05:37 – Club & Social Nets

06:26 – Training Nets

07:07 – Special Interest Nets

07:30 – Net Control Stations

08:16 – How to Check In Correctly

09:12 – Why Nets Matter

Tags / Keywords:

what is a ham radio net, ham radio nets explained, amateur radio net control, emergency ham radio nets, ham radio traffic net, ham radio skywarn, ham radio prep, hamshacktv, ham radio beginner guide, ham radio training, how to check into a ham radio net

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