Visualizing Network Communication in Geographic Environment

Abstract

Geographic network visualization lay out the data with respect to the physical location of nodes in the network. This paper presents a method for visualizing network communication in geographic environment. The method first simplifies GIS data and aggregates network communication data according to both geographic distribution and network topology, and then followed by selecting and highlighting main communication links. Finally, the layout of some nodes is adjusted in the network. By using our method, the network communication data can be visualized in geographic environment aesthetically and intelligibly. We developed a prototype system to help analysts and users understanding the characteristics and patterns of the networks communication.