ArcGIS Printing Services Made Simple: Frequent Issues, Fixes, and Proven Tips

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ArcGIS Prining Services

Disclaimer: While this might not align with typical OpSec content, this article is part of the GeoTech Logbook Series sharing GIS-related insights, technical notes, and observations for future reference and community sharing.

Introduction

Printing maps is one of the fundamental workflow in many GIS organizations. However, configuring and maintaining ArcGIS Enterprise printing services can present a variety of complex challenges from failing print jobs to inconsistent output quality.

This guide outlines the most common issues encountered by end users, their causes, and proven solutions backed by knowledge base articles, practical steps, and field-tested troubleshooting workflows.

Quick Overview on ArcGIS Printing Services

ArcGIS PrintingTools (also labelled as Printing Services) allow users to generate printable map outputs from web applications and the Portal Map Viewer. These services rely on a chain of trusted network communications, SSL certificates, and correct service configurations to function seamlessly.

Learn more about PrintingTools Service

Common Printing Service Errors and Root Causes

Common Errors

  • Error 1: Failed to Create Layer from Service
    • Usually occurs when the PrintingTools geoprocessing service is stopped, SSL/certificate trust is misconfigured, or firewall settings block communication.
  • Error 2: Invalid or Inaccessible Print Service
    • Triggered by asynchronous mode settings, SSL trust issues, corrupted PrintingTools, or incorrect URLs during Portal configuration.
  • Error 3: Unable to Print Maps Using Default PrintingTools Service
    • Linked to misconfigured PrintingTools, improper SSL certificates, proxy server misconfigurations, or network segmentation (DMZ/MZ).
  • Error 4: Connection with the Server Could Not Be Established (WinINet Error 12029)
    • Typically caused by incorrect Windows Internet Options, disabled RSA encryption, or firewall/proxy issues.

Common Root Causes

  • SSL and Certificate Trust Issues: Untrusted or expired SSL certificates, missing CA trust, or misconfigured SSL chains.
  • Sharing Level and Permissions: Incorrect sharing settings or lack of token-based authentication block access to required services.
  • Firewall, Proxy, and Network Architecture: Closed ports, strict firewall rules, or network segmentation (DMZ/MZ) can isolate servers and break printing workflows.
  • Service Configuration and Corruption: Stopped or corrupted PrintingTools, missing Portal properties, or incorrect service URLs.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting & Solutions

Important Note: Every ArcGIS Enterprise deployment is unique. The solutions provided here are intended as flexible guidelines, not fixed rules. Approach each issue methodically without assumptions.

  • Adjusting Sharing Levels: Set feature services to Organization/Public as needed. Use long-lived tokens for authentication when required.
  • Correcting Print Service URLs: Use the correct print service URL and avoid asynchronous mode unless specifically required.
  • Deleting and Republishing PrintingTools: If corruption is suspected, delete and recreate the PrintingTools service from the ArcGIS Server Utilities folder.
  • Network and Firewall Adjustments: Temporarily disable firewalls/antivirus to test connectivity. Then permanently update inbound/outbound rules for required ports.
  • Handling Proxy and DMZ Deployments: Ensure all ArcGIS Enterprise components can communicate internally without restrictions. Work with your IT/Security Team to cross-check network settings.

Knowledge Base Articles for Reference

  • Error: Failed to create layer from service - 000028086
  • Error: Print service URL is invalid or inaccessible - 000031465 | 000028531
  • Error: Unable to print using default Utilities > PrintingTools - 000032732

Probing Questions for Efficient Diagnosis

Time and effort are often wasted when jumping into solutions without first understanding the context. Ask these questions before diving in:

  • Is the PrintingTools service running and accessible from a browser?
  • Are SSL certificates valid and trusted across all components?
  • Is the environment behind a firewall, proxy, or DMZ — and are necessary ports open?
  • Are you using the correct print service URL and mode (synchronous vs. asynchronous)?
  • Does the ArcGIS Server account have sufficient permissions for all referenced data?
  • Have there been recent changes — upgrades, certificate renewals, or configuration updates?

Best Practices for Reliable ArcGIS Printing Services

  • Regularly review sharing settings for all data sources and apps.
  • Regularly review and renew SSL certificates before expiration.
  • Maintain up-to-date ArcGIS Server and Portal versions.
  • Use monitoring tools to track service health and performance.
  • Periodically check the health of ArcGIS PrintingTools and other relevant services.

Conclusion

While troubleshooting ArcGIS Printing Services may seem overwhelming, focusing on key areas like service health, SSL configuration, sharing settings, and network architecture will address the majority of issues. This guide is intended as a simplified troubleshooting overview — for complex scenarios, consult official ArcGIS documentation or Esri support.

⚠️ Per Esri’s copyright policy, information included here is shared for educational and non-commercial purposes only.

References & Further Reading

“Maps are not just representations of reality; they shape our perception and understanding of the world.” — Jack Dangermond