Keeping your family history safe is important, especially when you’ve spent years researching names, dates, stories, and photos. If you use Family Tree Maker software, creating regular backups ensures your hard work never gets lost due to technical issues or accidental mistakes. But the big question many users ask is: How often should you actually back up your Family Tree Maker data?
In this article, we’ll break down the ideal backup frequency, why it matters, and how you can protect your genealogy files with simple habits.
Why Backing Up Family Tree Maker Data Matters
Your family tree holds more than dates and records—it carries emotional value and years of dedicated research. Losing this data can feel heartbreaking.
Here’s why backups are essential:
- Protect against computer crashes
- Avoid losing work due to software errors
- Stay safe from viruses or ransomware
- Recover from accidental deletions
- Preserve years of research in multiple locations
Family Tree Maker software allows easy backup options, but the real benefit comes from backing up consistently.
How Often Should You Back Up Your Family Tree Maker Data?
The short answer: Back up your data regularly—ideally after every major update and at least once a week.
The long answer depends on how often you work on your family tree. Let’s break it down:
1. If You Update Frequently (Daily or Weekly)
If you add new records, photos, or notes often, you should:
- Backup after each research session
- Create a weekly full backup
- Store it in more than one location
This ensures nothing important slips through the cracks.
2. If You Update Occasionally (Once or Twice a Month)
In this case:
- Backup once a month
- Create a second backup after major edits such as merging trees, adding DNA connections, or importing data.
3. If You Rarely Make Changes
Even if your tree is mostly complete:
- Backup every 2–3 months
- Always back up before updating the Family Tree Maker software or syncing with online trees.
Recommended Backup Strategy for Family Tree Maker Software
To protect your genealogy research fully, follow this three-step protection plan.
1. Keep Local Backups
Save a copy on:
- External hard drives
- USB flash drives
- Your computer (as the primary working file)
2. Use Cloud Storage
Cloud services add another safety layer. You can use:
- Google Drive
- Dropbox
- OneDrive
These platforms keep your backups safe even if your device fails.
3. Maintain Multiple Versions
Family Tree Maker software lets you create incremental backups. Keeping different versions helps in situations like:
- Tree corruption
- Wrong merges
- Accidental edits
Having older versions gives you the option to restore your tree to a previous, error-free state.
Best Practices for Safe and Reliable Backups
Follow these simple tips to make your backup routine foolproof:
- Name your backup files clearly (Use dates like “FTM_Backup_Jan_2025.ftmb”)
- Store backups in at least two different places
- Regularly test backup files to ensure they open without issues
- Set reminders for weekly or monthly backup sessions
- Use the built-in backup options in Family Tree Maker software to ensure complete file protection
When Should You Perform an Immediate Backup?
There are moments when you must back up right away, such as:
- Before installing Family Tree Maker updates
- Before syncing with Ancestry or other online services
- After adding large batches of photos, documents, or media
- After merging trees or importing GEDCOM files
- If your computer shows signs of trouble (slow performance, errors, etc.)
A quick backup during these moments can save hours—or years—of research.
Conclusion
Backing up your Family Tree Maker data isn’t just a technical task—it’s a way to protect your family’s legacy. Whether you back up weekly, monthly, or after major changes, what matters most is forming a regular habit. With a simple, consistent backup routine, your research will remain safe, organized, and preserved for future generations.
Start today! Take a few minutes to back up your tree and keep your family history secure. If you need help with backups or using Family Tree Maker software, feel free to reach out!