# Connecting web services to QGIS and ArcGIS

Ellipsis Drive exposes layers via standard OGC web services, allowing direct use in tools such as QGIS and ArcGIS.

However, these external applications often return generic error messages, which can make connection issues difficult to diagnose. This guide highlights the most common causes of failed connections and how to resolve them.

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#### 1. Authentication (username and password)

If a layer is not set to **Public** or **Link Sharing**, authentication is required before the web service can be [accessed](https://docs.ellipsis-drive.com/data-sharing/access).

You must provide valid credentials in the authentication settings of your GIS software.

If authentication fails:

* verify your username and password by logging into Ellipsis Drive
* use the “forgot password” flow if needed

To avoid authentication entirely, the layer owner can enable **Link Sharing**.

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#### 2. Coordinate order in ArcGIS (WFS only)

Some Esri applications swap X and Y coordinates when using WFS services.

If geometries appear incorrectly or fail to load, ensure the coordinate order is adjusted accordingly.

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#### 3. Missing GetCapabilities parameter

Certain Esri configurations require an explicit GetCapabilities request.

Append one of the following to your service URL depending on the protocol:

* ?request=GetCapabilities\&service=WFS
* ?request=GetCapabilities\&service=WMS
* ?request=GetCapabilities\&service=WMTS

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#### 4. Licensing limitations

Some Esri licenses restrict or partially limit web service connectivity.

If connections fail despite correct configuration:

* verify whether your license supports OGC connections
* contact your administrator for clarification

If upgrading is not an option, QGIS is often a more flexible alternative for OGC-based workflows.

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#### Important note on permissions

Some GIS clients may restrict access levels when using OGC services, for example limiting functionality to read-only access depending on the software and license configuration.

***

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#### Still experiencing issues?

For software-specific configuration or protocol requirements, consult the support resources of your GIS provider:

* QGIS support:[ https://www.qgis.org/en/site/forusers/support.html](https://www.qgis.org/en/site/forusers/support.html)
* ArcGIS Pro support:[ https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/main/welcome-to-the-arcgis-pro-app-help.htm](https://pro.arcgis.com/en/pro-app/latest/help/main/welcome-to-the-arcgis-pro-app-help.htm)
* ArcGIS Online FAQ:[ https://doc.arcgis.com/en/arcgis-online/reference/faq.htm](https://doc.arcgis.com/en/arcgis-online/reference/faq.htm)
  {% endhint %}


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