How to Use a WMS

There are a number of ways to connect to a Web Map Service so you can display air photos and other maps on your computer without having to download the data.
 

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Viewers and GIS Software

Many online viewers and geographic information systems software packages can connect directly with the service. Once connected, you can view and use the images just as you would if they were on your computer. Check your software manual or help files for specific instructions on how to add a web mapping service.

Here are several examples:

• Google Earth
  • Step-by-step instructions for Google Earth
     
• ArcGIS Online
  • Using MnGeo's Image WMS in ArcGIS Online without creating an account
  
  
• ArcGIS Desktop
  • Step-by-step instructions for ArcMap
  • Step-by-step instructions for ArcGIS Pro
  
  
• AutoCAD Civil 3D  and  AutoCAD Map 3D
  • Step-by-step instructions for AutoCAD
  
  
• Bentley Microstation
  • Step-by-step instructions for Bentley Microstation V8i
  • Note: V8i versions of MicroStation or Power Geopak try to use the old TLS 1.0 network connection protocol to connect to the WMS server by default. If you are having trouble connecting to the WMS server, make sure that your .NET Framework is configured to support strong cryptography and that TLS 1.2 is enabled on your client computers. This Microsoft article may help.
  
  
• Minnesota MapServer


• QGIS
• WMS lesson

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Use without an Internet Connection

• DNR Export to Image tool for ArcGIS 10: Use WMS in the field without an internet connection.
  • Article describing the tool's features
     

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Create Your Own Web Application

Programmers and web developers can add WMS services to their website applications. For example, see the technical specifications for MnGeo's Geospatial Image Service.
 

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Return to MnGeo WMS homepage