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In the deformation analysis of geodetic networks, there are two conventional methods for estimating movement of an area of study: displacement vectors and strain tensors. However, the evaluation and representation of the deformation depend on the priori reference system and the configuration of chosen figures that constitute the entire network. These constraints make difficult the interpretation of the results. Through this present paper, a solution based on the finite element method (FEM) is proposed to refine the estimation and the representation of the deformation of geodetic networks. In this context, a study of the deformation is carried out to analyze the horizontal motion of the geodetic network Cheliff observed by classical triangulation in 1976 (by INCT) and 1981 (by CRAAG), based on a twodimensional elastic finite element model. The different results are illustrated in terms of displacement vectors, strain tensors and stress tensors. Deformation of the area thus determined is interpreted according to previous geophysical studies. In addition, different results revealed the following phenomena: A phenomenon of compressive of Cheliff area, in the NNW-SSE orientation, due to the rapprochement of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates that caused the fault opposite the famous earthquake of 10 October 1980. A phenomenon of block rotation in the SE and NW parts of the fault, in a retrograde direction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]