[GIS] Add Basemap grayed out in ArcMap

arcgis-10.2arcgis-desktoparcgis-onlinearcgis-online-basemaps

Why can't I add a base map to my data frame in ArcMap?

I am using ArcGIS 10.2 for Desktop and the options under Add Data for Add Basemap and Add Data From ArcGIS Online are both disabled (grayed out).

enter image description here

Best Answer

Look to the lower left of your computer's Taskbar, you should see a small globe icon. Right-click & "Test Connection Now". You will connect to ArcGIS Online and the ability to add Basemaps is restored.

The unfortunate greyness is from not being auto-connected to ArcGIS Online. In the past just being online was good enough to pull a service, now one must be connected to their ArcGIS Online.

Related Question