Family Tree Maker (FTM) is one of the most popular genealogy software programs used by researchers around the world. Whether you are just starting your family history journey or you are an experienced genealogist, Web Search Integration in Family Tree Maker makes research simple, fast, and efficient.
With this feature, you can search online historical records, family trees, census data, and public documents from trusted genealogy websites—without leaving the software. In this article, you’ll learn how to use Web Search Integration in Family Tree Maker step by step.
What Is Web Search Integration in Family Tree Maker?
Web Search Integration is a built-in search tool in Family Tree Maker that connects your offline tree to online genealogy websites like:
- Ancestry.com
- FamilySearch.org
- MyHeritage
- RootsWeb
- Genealogy.com
It helps you find matching records, hints, and documents about your ancestors directly from FTM.
Benefits of Using Web Search in FTM
Here are some key advantages:
- ✅ Saves time by searching online databases directly from FTM
- ✅ Automatically suggests historical records and documents
- ✅ Helps verify ancestor information
- ✅ Adds sources and facts with one click
- ✅ Keeps research organized and linked to individuals in your tree
How to Access Web Search in Family Tree Maker
Follow these simple steps to start using Web Search Integration:
Step 1: Open Family Tree Maker
Launch FTM on your computer and open your family tree file.
Step 2: Select a Person to Research
Click on the person from your tree for whom you want to search records.
Step 3: Go to the Web Search Workspace
From the top main menu, click on Web Search. This will open the Web Search Workspace inside FTM.
Understanding the Web Search Workspace
When you open Web Search, you will see:
| Section | Description |
|---|---|
| Person Panel | Displays the selected individual’s details |
| Search Panel | Allows you to search different genealogy websites |
| Result Area | Shows search results and record suggestions |
| Merge Panel | Lets you compare and merge data |
How to Search Online Records
Step 1: Choose a Search Website
On the left side, select the website you want to search, such as Ancestry or FamilySearch.
Step 2: Enter Details
FTM automatically fills in the person’s name, birth year, and place. You can edit or add more details for better results.
Step 3: View Search Results
Click Search. The results will appear on the screen with records like census data, birth certificates, obituaries, and immigration records.
How to Merge Online Records to Your Tree
Once you find useful information:
- Click View Record to see details
- Compare the record with your tree data
- Click Merge to add it to your family tree
- Select what information to keep or replace
- Save and continue
✅ Pro Tip: Always review each record before merging to avoid incorrect information.
Tips for Better Search Results
Here are some professional genealogy tips:
- Use alternative spellings (Smith/Smyth)
- Search using approximate birth and death years
- Filter results by location
- Check multiple sources, not just one
- Always save source citations for accuracy
Common Problems and Solutions
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| No search results | Try fewer details or remove place filters |
| Wrong records | Verify using multiple sources |
| Duplicate facts | Merge carefully and avoid auto-merge |
| Slow searches | Check your internet connection |
Final Thoughts
Web Search Integration in Family Tree Maker is a powerful tool that makes genealogy research easier and more organized. Whether you’re finding new ancestors or verifying family history facts, this feature helps you build an accurate and well-documented family tree.
By using online records directly inside FTM, you save time, stay organized, and discover new family connections with ease.
✅ Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I need an internet connection for Web Search in FTM?
Yes, an active internet connection is required.
Q2: Can I use Web Search without an Ancestry subscription?
Yes, but results from Ancestry.com may be limited without a subscription. You can still use FamilySearch for free.
Q3: Is Web Search available in all versions of FTM?
Yes, but features work best in newer versions like FTM 2019 and FTM 2017.