Keeping network maps accurate is a persistent challenge for research and education networks (NRENs), where infrastructure, services and traffic flows can change constantly. To help address this, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Sciences Network (ESnet) has released TerraNova, an open-source network mapping and visualization software suite designed to automate the creation of accurate, up-to-date network maps.
Released on GitHub in April 2026, TerraNova enables network engineers and operators to generate both high-level and highly detailed network maps from a shared data source. The software is designed to provide a consistently accurate and up-to-date view of their network and to visualize the same data in multiple formats, for different purposes and audiences.
Once embedded into websites, customer portals, dashboards or presentations, TerraNova maps can refresh automatically, reducing the risk of outdated diagrams remaining in circulation. The platform also allows the same network data to be visualised in multiple formats for operational, planning and stakeholder communication purposes.
“Visualizing a network has always been hard, but doing it well provides a lot of benefits, especially in building understanding and facilitating conversations across communities that are not familiar with how a network works,” says Inder Monga, Executive Director of ESnet.
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Submitted by Morten Anderson
