# Use Ellipsis Drive layers in external software

Ellipsis Drive layers can be used directly in external GIS and analysis tools [through plugins, packages and standard protocols.](https://app.ellipsis-drive.com/integrate)

Access is provided via secure service URLs that [follow OGC standards](https://docs.ellipsis-drive.com/developers/api-v3/ogc-protocols) and include authentication where required.

***

#### How to connect a layer

To generate a connection link:

1️⃣ Open the layer in Ellipsis Drive\
\
2️⃣ Navigate to the **Integrate** section in the layer details or use the plug icon in the viewer\
\
3️⃣ Select the desired service type:

* XYZ
* WMTS
* WMS
* WCS
* WFS

4️⃣ Copy the generated URL

<figure><img src="/files/6gFbXYnMpwinxxV8vpU3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

You can now use this link in [external software](https://app.ellipsis-drive.com/integrate) such as QGIS, ArcGIS, Leaflet, Mapbox, or business intelligence tools such as Power BI.

***

#### Authentication and access control

Generated service URLs include a **Personal Access Token**.

This token:

* authorises access to the layer
* enforces the permissions defined in Ellipsis Drive
* ensures only intended users can consume the data

***

#### Managing personal access tokens

You can view and manage all tokens in your account:

1\. Go to **Manage Account**\
2\. Open **Personal Access Tokens**

Here you can review all active tokens.

<figure><img src="/files/fjFWuwW1Fw98w1Hms7wl" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

***

#### Revoking access

Revoking a token immediately disables all links using it.

1\. Go to **Manage Account**\
2\. Open **Personal Access Tokens**\
3\. Delete the relevant token

<figure><img src="/files/V3spjPNeiqm5MPERIrVG" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Once revoked, all connected external applications lose access to the data.

***

{% hint style="success" %}

### Plugins and integrations

Ellipsis Drive also provides [plugins](https://app.ellipsis-drive.com/integrate) for direct integration with common tools and platforms.

These reduce setup complexity and allow direct access without manual URL configuration.
{% endhint %}

***


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# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.ellipsis-drive.com/developers/common-integrations/use-ellipsis-drive-layers-in-external-software.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.
