What does "network" mean in packet radio?

In packet radio, a "network" refers to a system of interconnected amateur radio stations that work together to route data over distances greater than a single direct transmission can reach. These stations use digipeaters and nodes to pass packets along via radio frequency. This concept is similar to how the internet routes data through various servers, but a packet radio network relies primarily on RF connections between amateur stations rather than commercial infrastructure. Distractors suggesting the use of telephone lines or physical wire connections miss the essence of an amateur radio packet network, which is designed to be a wireless, independent communication web.