An 'independent' community network is usually a not-for-profit organisation that aims to develop, use and promote wireless networking technology in a region.

Althought it is not necessary that a community network will offer users access to the internet it is often common practice. Community networks are a little bit like the global internet only on a smaller, local scale. The services they offer depend on their users intentions and may often resemble those found on the world wide web. 

They are usually made up of members with a passion for technology, which manage, maintain and operate the network.