> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.os.uk/os-downloads/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.os.uk/os-downloads/resources/product-resources/end-of-life-product-documentation/os-mastermap-water-network-layer/os-mastermap-water-network-layer-getting-started-guide/requirements-for-using-the-data.md).

# Requirements for using the data

## System requirements <a href="#bookmark3" id="bookmark3"></a>

OS MasterMap Water Network Layer is designed for use in a geographic information system (GIS). For details of Ordnance Survey’s Licensed Partners who can assist you with incorporating the product in their systems, please see the ['GIS software' page on the Ordnance Survey website](https://www.ordnancesurvey.co.uk/gis/software).

Ordnance Survey does not recommend specific suppliers or software products, as the most appropriate system will depend on many factors, for example, the amount of data being taken, resources available within the organisation, the existing and planned information technology infrastructure, and, ultimately, the applications that the data will be used for. However, as a minimum, the following elements will be required in any system:

* A means of reading the data, either in its native format, or by translating it into a file format or for storage in a database.
* A means of storing and distributing the data, perhaps in a database or through a web-based service.
* A way of visualising and / or querying the data, typically a GIS.

## Backup provision of the product <a href="#bookmark4" id="bookmark4"></a>

You are advised to copy the supplied data to a backup medium before following the steps outlined in this getting started guide.

## Typical data volumes <a href="#bookmark5" id="bookmark5"></a>

For reading purposes, it is recommended that users store the data on a single hard disc. This will speed up the ability of your computer to read the data. Compressed file sizes for the full supply of England, Scotland and Wales are as follows:

* **Geography Markup Language (GML)**: The compressed file size for Great Britain is approximately 1.25Gb.
* **GeoPackage:** The compressed file size for Great Britain is approximately 1.8Gb.
* **Vector tiles:** The compressed file size for Great Britain is approximately 1.5Gb.


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