> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://uttws.gitbook.io/gis-workshop/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://uttws.gitbook.io/gis-workshop/exercise/adding-data/wms.md). # WMS **Overview** A Web Map Service (WMS) enables the exchange of spatial information and viewing over the web in the form of a map or image to your web browser. Simplest way to display data over the internet. You might choose a WMS service for any of the following options: * Render data quickly * Perform basic querying * Produce simple maps * Maintain styles when published Next, let's add the National Land Cover Database (NLCD) raster as a reference layer to the map: . You could also add Landfire data if you want to look at vegetation. Landfire also has a WMS connection you can use if you prefer to look at landfire vegetation type data: 1. Navigate to add layer > `Add WMS` 2. In the top tool bar select Layer > `Add Layer` > `Add WMS Layer` 3. Select `New` and provide a name (i.e. land cover) and copy and paste the [land cover URL](https://www.mrlc.gov/geoserver/mrlc_display/NLCD_2019_Land_Cover_L48/wms?service=WMS\&request=GetCapabilities) into the URL field. 4. Click `OK`

1. Click `Add` 2. Select `Connect` and highlight the first feature (see screenshot below)

Your map canvas should now look something like this. We can reorder the layers by dragging them up and down in the layer list.