Common Questions

ArcView, ArcEditor, and ArcInfo are licensing levels for ArcGIS Desktop applications. ArcView provides data visualization, query, analysis, and integration capabilities along with the ability to create and edit simple geographic features. ArcEditor includes all the functionality of ArcView and adds a comprehensive set of tools to create, edit, and ensure the quality of your data. ArcInfo includes all the functionality of ArcEditor and adds advanced spatial analysis, data manipulation, and high-end cartography tools. Find out which product is right for you.

ArcMap, ArcCatalog, ArcScene, and ArcGlobe are ArcGIS Desktop application programs. ArcMap and ArcCatalog are the core applications delivered with all licensing levels of ArcGIS Desktop; ArcScene and ArcGlobe are part of the ArcGIS 3D Analyst extension.

ArcView is a complete GIS, suitable for users who will manage their own file-based data sources, use data sources from the Internet, or collaborate in enterprise workflows without the requirement to manage the enterprise data sources. A detailed list of functionalities is provided in the ArcGIS Desktop Functionality Matrix. [PDF]

ArcEditor is a complete, advanced GIS, providing all the functionality of ArcView while supporting the administration of advanced geodatabase objects within a multiuser environment. ArcEditor provides support for SQL Server Express-based geodatabases. ArcEditor users can use advanced cartography tools, create and manage geodatabase topologies, use relationship classes and utility networks, perform advanced and coordinate geometry (COGO) vector editing, perform raster editing and vectorization, and (when ArcGIS Server Enterprise is available) carry out these tasks within enterprise and distributed geodatabases. A detailed list of functionalities is provided in the ArcGIS Desktop Functionality Matrix. [PDF]