Deutsch: Schicht / Español: Capa / Português: Camada / Français: Couche / Italiano: Strato /

A Layer is a subdivision of a CAD or GIS database containing related data. Layers can be visualized as "transparencies" which allow the user to view and analyze information selectively by theme. Some GIS build their databases as a series of layers covering a single area. Layers are fundamental to overlay analysis.