WebStore, ArcGIS Online User Account Retention Policy

ArcGIS Online user accounts that have not been accessed for a period of two (2) years are considered inactive and may be subject to removal.

To maintain a sustainable and reliable ArcGIS Online environment, user accounts and associated content are managed based on account activity.

Account Activity and Retention

ArcGIS Online user accounts that have not been accessed for a period of two (2) years are considered inactive and may be subject to removal.

This activity-based approach ensures consistent management across all user types, regardless of differences in NetID expiration timelines across campuses.

Account Removal Process

Inactive accounts may be removed as part of routine system maintenance.

Prior to permanent deletion:

  • Account content may be reviewed to identify actively used or shared resources

  • Content deemed necessary for ongoing use may be reassigned or preserved

  • Other content may be removed in accordance with storage and lifecycle policies

Data Retention and Recovery

Content associated with removed accounts may be temporarily retained for a limited grace period to allow for recovery if needed.

After this period, content is permanently deleted and cannot be recovered.

User Responsibility

ArcGIS Online is a collaborative working environment and is not intended for long-term data storage.

Users are responsible for:

NetID and Institutional Context

While NetID status governs access to university systems, ArcGIS Online account management is based on platform activity to ensure consistent and sustainable operations across all campuses.

ArcGIS Online access is integrated with the University’s NetID system through single sign-on (SSO). Users with expired or inactive NetIDs will no longer be able to log in to ArcGIS Online. As a result, maintaining an active NetID is necessary for continued access; however, account and content retention within ArcGIS Online is managed independently based on platform activity.

Users should not rely solely on NetID status to preserve access to ArcGIS Online content. 

Quick Checklist: Managing Your ArcGIS Online Account

To avoid loss of access or data, keep the following in mind:

  • Log in to your ArcGIS Online account at least once every two years

  • Transfer ownership of important content before leaving the university

  • Ensure shared or project-critical data is assigned to an active account

  • Back up important data outside of ArcGIS Online

  • Do not rely on NetID status alone to preserve your account or content

Taking a few minutes to review these steps can help prevent unexpected data loss and ensure continuity for your projects.

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Keywords:
"NetID expiration", maintenance, data, storage, ESRI, "ArcGIS Pro", groups, AGOL 
Doc ID:
144142
Owned by:
Webstore W. in University of Illinois Technology Services
Created:
2024-10-29
Updated:
2026-05-06
Sites:
University of Illinois Technology Services