Working with a query layer in ArcMap

Once added to ArcMap, query layers behave just like other feature layers and stand-alone tables. They can be used in geoprocessing tools or used with ArcGIS Server by publishing the map document as a Map Service.

Query layers can also be easily shared between users, applications, and other map documents by saving them as a layer file (.lyr), creating a layer package (.lpk), or bundling the map and associated data using a map package (.mpk).

Saving a query layer as a layer file

This can be done by right-clicking the query layer in the table of contents and selecting Save As Layer File.

Saving the query layer as a layer package

This can be done by right-clicking the query layer in the table of contents and selecting Create layer package.