This thesis deals with the various methods for lightning strikes monitoring and identification, with special emphasis on the LINET network operation. Lightning detection with TOA method is described, along with the method of separating CG from IC lightning strikes. Possibility of using lightning products of LINET network in creating lightning density and lightning hazard maps is explored, along with the possibility of identifying lightning flash- cells, their tracking and nowcasting (i.e. forecasting their short-term position).