What defines a free net?

• A. A net where all transmissions are encrypted
• B. A net restricted to a single unit
• C. A net used for training only
• D. Member stations are authorized to transmit traffic to other net stations without prior permission from the NECOS

Answer: (D)

A free net is defined by allowing member stations to transmit traffic to other net stations without needing prior permission from the Net Control (NECOS). This setup reduces centralized bottlenecks and enables faster, more autonomous traffic handling among participants, while Net Control can still oversee overall operations. Encryption, being limited to a single unit, or being restricted to training purposes are not what determines a free net. The key feature is the authorization to pass traffic directly to other net stations without pre-approval from NECOS.