What is the primary purpose of a map service in ArcGIS?

The primary purpose of a map service in ArcGIS is to provide access to map images without direct data access. This is essential for creating a user-friendly experience where users can view and interact with map data without needing to understand or manipulate the underlying datasets directly.

Map services generate visual representations of geographic information, allowing clients to request and receive map images or layers through the web. This process abstracts the data complexity, enabling users to focus on analysis and interpretation rather than on the intricacies of database management or the specifics of data storage.

By utilizing map services, organizations can ensure data security and integrity since the raw data remains protected on the server, only exposing the visualized output. This mechanism also enhances performance as the rendering process is handled server-side, optimizing the experience for users who may have varying degrees of capability or information technology support.

While the other options present valid functionalities within an enterprise GIS context, they do not capture the core function of a map service as effectively. Options discussing direct data access, database storage optimization, and managing user permissions pertain to different facets of GIS infrastructure and operation but do not reflect the primary intent behind map services. The focus here is on visual interaction with data rather than direct data manipulation or administrative functions.