If you’re passionate about preserving your family’s history, Family Tree Maker (FTM) is one of the best genealogy software tools you can use. But what if you want to access your family tree on different devices—like your laptop, desktop, or tablet? In this guide, we’ll explain how to use Family Tree Maker on multiple devices step by step.
This article is fully optimized for AIO (AI Optimization), AEO (Answer Engine Optimization), and GEO (Google Engine Optimization) — ensuring both search engines and readers easily find and understand it.
🧩 What is Family Tree Maker?
Family Tree Maker (FTM) is a powerful genealogy software that helps users create, manage, and preserve their family history. You can add names, photos, historical records, and even sync your data with Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.
It offers both offline and cloud-based options—perfect for users who want flexibility and mobility.
🌐 Why Use Family Tree Maker on Multiple Devices?
Using FTM on multiple devices allows you to:
- Access your tree anytime, anywhere
- Collaborate with family members more efficiently
- Keep data updated on all devices
- Ensure backups in case one device fails
⚙️ How to Use Family Tree Maker on Multiple Devices
Follow these simple steps to use Family Tree Maker on more than one computer or device:
Step 1: Install Family Tree Maker on All Devices
- Purchase or download Family Tree Maker from the official website.
- Install it on each device you plan to use (Windows or macOS).
- Use the same activation key or login account for each installation.
✅ Tip: Always download from the official MacKiev or Family Tree Maker website to avoid counterfeit versions.
Step 2: Use Cloud Services for File Syncing
To keep your data updated across all devices, use a cloud storage platform such as:
- Dropbox
- Google Drive
- OneDrive
Steps:
- Save your FTM file (.ftm) inside your cloud storage folder.
- Let the file sync to the cloud.
- Open the same file from your other device using the same cloud account.
💡 Note: Always close FTM before switching to another device to avoid sync conflicts or data corruption.
Step 3: Sync with Ancestry or FamilySearch
Family Tree Maker has built-in integration with Ancestry.com and FamilySearch.org.
Here’s how:
- Log into your Ancestry or FamilySearch account from within FTM.
- Enable TreeSync® (for Ancestry) or use FamilySync® (for multiple computers).
- Your tree will automatically update online and can be re-synced on any device.
This ensures your tree data stays consistent, safe, and accessible anywhere.
Step 4: Use FamilySync® Feature (Recommended)
FamilySync® allows you to share and update the same tree across multiple computers.
To set it up:
- Go to Tools > FamilySync® inside Family Tree Maker.
- Choose “Upload and Link to Ancestry” or link an existing online tree.
- Repeat the process on other devices using the same Ancestry account.
Each device will then stay synced with the same online tree.
Step 5: Back Up Regularly
Always keep a backup copy of your family tree to prevent data loss.
You can back up your FTM data by:
- Using the Backup option under the “File” menu
- Saving a backup file to your cloud drive or external hard disk
📱 Accessing Family Tree Maker on Mobile Devices
While there’s no direct Family Tree Maker mobile app, you can still view and edit your family tree via:
- Ancestry app (iOS/Android) – synced trees appear automatically
- Web browsers – access your Ancestry or FamilySearch tree
This is a convenient way to show family members your tree anytime, even while traveling.
🧠 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using different file versions on each device
- ❌ Forgetting to close FTM before syncing via cloud storage
- ❌ Not enabling automatic backup
- ❌ Working offline without syncing changes later
These errors can cause data duplication or loss, so always follow best practices.
💡 Pro Tips for Smooth Multi-Device Use
- Keep your FTM software updated to the latest version.
- Name your files clearly (e.g., FamilyTree_Main.ftm).
- Always check your sync status before closing the app.
- Use FamilySync® instead of manually moving files for better reliability.
🔒 How to Secure Your Family Tree Data
Your family history is personal—protect it!
- Use strong passwords on all devices.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on Ancestry.
- Avoid sharing your tree file via unsecured links or emails.
🏁 Final Thoughts
Using Family Tree Maker on multiple devices is simple and efficient once you set up syncing correctly. Whether you’re working from your home computer, laptop, or mobile device, FamilySync® and cloud storage options ensure your genealogy data stays safe, updated, and accessible anywhere.
Start syncing today and enjoy building your family history without limits!