WMS to Raster

What is WMS to Raster?

WMS to Raster is a spatial analysis process that converts Web Map Service (WMS) layers into raster data format. A WMS layer is a standard protocol for serving georeferenced map images over the internet, which are generated by a map server using data from a GIS database. By converting this data to raster format, users can save the map imagery as a static dataset within their GIS project. This process is particularly valuable when there is a need to analyze or manipulate the specific graphical or data attributes of a WMS layer that would not be possible in its native web-served form.

When would you use WMS to Raster?

The WMS to Raster conversion is useful when users need to integrate web-distributed map data into their GIS projects for detailed analysis or to carry out specific geospatial operations that require raster data inputs. It's particularly beneficial when offline access is required, or when dealing with bandwidth limitations that prevent frequent access to live WMS servers. Additionally, this conversion becomes essential when the analyses or symbologies supported by raster datasets are explicitly needed to perform advanced spatial analyses or for the creation of high-quality printed maps.

FAQs

Can I convert any WMS layer to raster format using the WMS to Raster tool?

Yes, most WMS layers can be converted to raster format, but limitations might exist depending on the server settings and data permissions of the original WMS service.

What file format is the raster saved in after conversion?

The raster is typically saved in a common format such as GeoTIFF, which is widely used and supported by many GIS applications.

Is there any loss of data when converting a WMS layer to a raster?

While the conversion process should preserve the visual and data integrity of the WMS layer, some data granularity or attribute details might be lost depending on the resolution settings and capabilities of the original WMS service.

Can the raster be re-converted back to a WMS layer?

Once converted into a raster, the data will not retain its server-driven characteristics, and while it can be used locally, it cannot be directly re-converted to a WMS due to the inherent differences in data structure and serving mechanisms.