The Sign In and ArcGIS Online options are inactive on the File menu

Description

Hosted feature services cannot be published from ArcMap because the Sign In and ArcGIS Online options when clicking on the File menu are inactive. The Sign In option allows users to log in to ArcGIS Online from ArcMap, and the ArcGIS Online option allows users to access data and maps uploaded to ArcGIS Online.

Cause

• The ArcGIS Connection Utility is disconnected because the ArcGIS Connection Properties is set to 'Never check'. This setting allows ArcGIS Desktop to check for ArcGIS Online's availability. A globe icon symbolizes a good connection; a globe icon with a red 'X' symbolizes a bad connection.

• ArcMap is referencing an incorrect ArcGIS Online connection. In ArcGIS Administrator, the default ArcGIS Online connection (www.arcgis.com) is referenced instead of the organizational domain.
• TLS 1.2 is not enabled in the machine.
• The domains are blocked.

Solution or Workaround

Use one of the workarounds listed below to solve the issue.

Re-establish the ArcGIS Connection Utility

1. Open ArcMap. Click the Show hidden icons button on the Windows taskbar
2. Locate the disconnected ArcGIS Connection globe icon on the taskbar.

3. Right-click the ArcGIS Connection icon and click ‘Properties…’.

Note:
The ArcGIS Connection icon only displays after launching ArcMap.

4. In the ArcGIS Connection Properties dialog box, under Connection Test Frequency, select the Always check at the start of a session option, and click OK.

5. The ArcGIS Connection Utility is now connected. Hover the cursor over the ArcGIS Connection icon to check the status.

Add the ArcGIS Online organizational domain in ArcGIS Administrator

Refer to ArcMap: Manage ArcMap portal connections for steps to add the organizational domain in ArcGIS Administrator.

Note:
Additionally, add https://www.arcgis.com to the portal connection.

Warning:   
Esri cannot guarantee results from incorrect modifications while following these instructions. Exercise caution. Consult a qualified computer systems professional if necessary.

Enable the TLS 1.2 option in the machine

1. On the Windows taskbar, click Start.
2. Search for and select Control Panel.
3. In the Control Panel window, click Network and Internet > Internet Options.
4. In the Internet Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
5. Under Settings, check the Use TLS 1.2 check box.
6. Click Apply > OK.

Reset the Internet Explorer settings

1. On the Windows taskbar, click Start.
2. Search for and select Control Panel.
3. In the Control Panel window, click Network and Internet > Internet Options.
4. In the Internet Properties window, click the Advanced tab.
5. Under Reset Internet Explorer settings, click the Reset... button.
6. Click Apply > OK.

Add the required domains to the exceptions of the firewall

Add the domains to the allow list to enable the connection to ArcGIS Online. Refer to Esri Blog: Troubleshooting issues adding ArcGIS Online basemaps to ArcMap for more information.