The package java.net is part of the Java Standard Library, providing classes and interfaces for networking applications. It allows developers to create and manage network connections, enabling communication between computers over the internet or local networks. Key classes include URL, Socket, and URLConnection, which facilitate tasks like accessing web resources and establishing client-server connections. java.net supports various protocols, including HTTP, FTP, and TCP, making it versatile for different networking needs. It also includes features for handling network addresses, DNS resolution, and managing network permissions, ensuring that Java applications can effectively interact with networked resources.