Family Tree Maker (FTM) is one of the most popular genealogy software programs, allowing users to build, organize, and explore their family histories. With its comprehensive tools, users can construct detailed family trees, link documents, photos, and even trace historical records through integration with platforms like Ancestry.com. However, many genealogy enthusiasts wonder if they can use Family Tree Maker on multiple computers without compromising their research. The good news is that it’s entirely possible, and there are several ways to synchronize your work across devices, ensuring a seamless genealogy experience.
One of the first steps when using Family Tree Maker for multiple computers is understanding the installation and licensing rules. When you purchase a copy of FTM, it typically comes with a multi-computer license, which allows you to install the program on more than one device, such as your desktop at home and a laptop for travel. This flexibility is ideal for genealogists who want to work on their research from different locations. However, the challenge often lies in syncing data between these machines to ensure that updates on one device are reflected on the others.
There are several ways to manage syncing across multiple computers. First, you can use cloud storage solutions, such as Dropbox or Google Drive, to store your family tree files. By saving your FTM file in a cloud folder, you can access the same file on different computers. After working on your family tree on one computer, simply save the file, and it will automatically update in the cloud, making it accessible on any other device with internet access. It’s important, however, to ensure that the program isn’t open on multiple computers simultaneously, as this could lead to file corruption or syncing issues.
Another option is to use Family Tree Maker’s TreeSync® feature, which allows you to synchronize your tree with your Ancestry.com account. Once your tree is uploaded and synced to Ancestry, you can access and update it from different computers, or even from your smartphone or tablet using Ancestry’s mobile app. This is a particularly handy solution if you like to share your research with family members, as they can view and contribute to the tree online. However, keep in mind that while TreeSync® allows for online access, it’s essential to regularly back up your family tree locally to avoid data loss in case of an error or technical issue.
Transferring your Family Tree Maker for multiple computers also involves routine backups. The program makes it easy to back up your entire family tree, including media files, so you can save them to an external hard drive, USB stick, or cloud storage. Regular backups are critical for preserving your hard work, especially when transitioning between computers or if you experience any technical failures. When moving from one device to another, it’s always a good idea to restore from a backup rather than manually transferring files to avoid any conflicts or missing media.
In summary, Family Tree Maker for multiple computers offers several methods to ensure continuity and safety in your genealogy research. Whether through cloud storage, TreeSync®, or regular backups, genealogists can enjoy the flexibility of working from multiple locations without risking data integrity. Just remember to use syncing features responsibly and to perform regular backups to safeguard your family’s history for generations to come.