Upgrading software can feel stressful—especially when your family history data is involved. If you’ve spent years building your family tree, adding photos, documents, and research notes, the fear of losing everything during an upgrade is real.
The good news? You can safely upgrade to Family Tree Maker 2024 without losing data—as long as you follow the right steps.
This guide is written for real users, not tech experts. Whether you’re upgrading from an older version or moving to a new computer, you’ll learn exactly how to protect your data, avoid common mistakes, and make the most of the latest version.
What Is Family Tree Maker 2024?
Family Tree Maker 2024 is the latest version of the popular genealogy software used by millions of researchers worldwide. It allows you to:
- Build and manage detailed family trees
- Sync data with Ancestry accounts
- Store photos, documents, and historical records
- Generate charts, reports, and timelines
Each new version improves performance, security, and compatibility with modern systems. However, upgrading incorrectly can put your data at risk—which is why preparation is everything.
Why You Should Upgrade to Family Tree Maker 2024
Before diving into the “how,” it’s important to understand why upgrading makes sense.
Key Benefits of Upgrading
- Better compatibility with Windows and macOS updates
- Improved stability and faster performance
- Enhanced sync features with online trees
- Bug fixes and security improvements
- Continued access to official support
Staying on an outdated version increases the risk of crashes, sync errors, and compatibility issues over time.
Things to Do Before You Upgrade (Most Important Part)
If there’s one section you shouldn’t skip, it’s this one. Most data loss issues happen because users rush into the upgrade.
1. Create a Full Backup of Your Family Tree
Before you upgrade Family Tree Maker 2024, create a complete backup file.
How to Create a Backup
- Open your current Family Tree Maker version
- Go to File > Backup
- Choose Full Backup
- Include:
- Media files
- Historical records
- Sync data
- Save the backup to:
- An external hard drive or
- A cloud service (Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox)
Pro Tip: Keep at least two backup copies in different locations.
2. Check Your Current Version & System Compatibility
Upgrading works best when your system meets the requirements.
Check These First:
- Your current Family Tree Maker version
- Operating system (Windows/macOS)
- Available disk space
- RAM and processor speed
If your computer is outdated, consider upgrading the system before upgrading the software.
3. Sync with Ancestry (If You Use It)
If your tree is connected to an online account:
- Perform a manual sync
- Resolve all sync conflicts
- Make sure your online and desktop trees match
This ensures no changes are lost during the upgrade.
How to Upgrade Family Tree Maker 2024 Step by Step
Now let’s get into the actual upgrade process.
Step 1: Download the Official Installer
Always download the installer from the official source or your purchase email.
Avoid:
- Third-party websites
- Free download links
- Modified installers
These can cause corrupted installs or data loss.
Step 2: Close All Programs Before Installing
Before running the installer:
- Close Family Tree Maker
- Exit background apps
- Temporarily disable antivirus (if it blocks installs)
This reduces the chance of installation errors.
Step 3: Install Family Tree Maker 2024
Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions.
During installation:
- Choose the default installation path (recommended)
- Do not uninstall your old version manually unless prompted
- Let the setup complete fully before opening the program
Once installed, launch the software.
How to Restore Your Data After the Upgrade
In most cases, your existing tree will appear automatically. If it doesn’t, don’t panic.
Option 1: Open an Existing Tree File
- Open Family Tree Maker 2024
- Click File > Open
- Locate your
.ftmfile - Open it and allow conversion
The software will convert the file to the new format.
Option 2: Restore from Backup
If your tree doesn’t load correctly:
- Go to File > Restore
- Select your backup file
- Choose a restore location
- Complete the process
Your data—including media—should be fully restored.
Common Upgrade Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
Many users run into problems not because of the software—but because of small oversights.
Mistake 1: Skipping the Backup
Even if you’ve never had issues before, always back up.
Mistake 2: Using Old or Corrupted Files
Verify your tree file opens correctly before upgrading.
Mistake 3: Installing Over a Damaged System
Fix system errors and update your OS first.
Mistake 4: Interrupting the Installation
Never stop the install midway—even if it seems slow.
What Happens to Media Files During the Upgrade?
Your photos, documents, and media files are usually stored in linked folders.
To Protect Media Files:
- Keep media inside the default Family Tree Maker media folder
- Include media in your backup
- Avoid renaming folders during the upgrade
After upgrading, verify that images and documents open correctly.
How to Verify Your Data After Upgrading
Once the upgrade is complete, take time to check your data.
Quick Data Checklist
- Open multiple individuals in your tree
- Check photos and documents
- Verify relationships and dates
- Run a sync (if applicable)
- Generate a report or chart
Catching issues early makes them easier to fix.
Upgrading on a New Computer? Here’s What to Do
If you’re upgrading and moving to a new computer at the same time:
Recommended Process
- Install Family Tree Maker 2024 on the new computer
- Transfer your backup file
- Restore the backup
- Activate your license
- Sync with Ancestry (if used)
This method is safer than copying raw program files.
Real-World Example: Safe Upgrade in Action
Scenario:
Linda has used Family Tree Maker for 10 years. Her tree includes 5,000 people and hundreds of photos.
What She Did Right:
- Created two backups
- Synced with Ancestry
- Installed Family Tree Maker 2024 on a clean system
- Restored from backup
Result:
No data loss, faster performance, and improved stability.
Troubleshooting After the Upgrade
Even smooth upgrades may come with small hiccups.
If the Program Crashes
- Update graphics drivers
- Install the latest patch
- Run the software as administrator
If Media Is Missing
- Check media folder location
- Re-link missing media
- Restore from backup if needed
If Sync Fails
- Sign out and sign back in
- Re-link your online tree
- Resolve duplicate records
Best Practices for Future Updates
To make future upgrades stress-free:
- Back up weekly
- Keep your OS updated
- Avoid using cracked or modified software
- Store backups off your main computer
These habits protect your genealogy work long-term.
Conclusion
Upgrading doesn’t have to be risky. When done correctly, you can upgrade Family Tree Maker 2024 without losing data and enjoy better performance, stability, and features. The key is preparation—backups, system checks, and careful installation.
Your family history is irreplaceable. Treat it with the care it deserves.
Call to Action
Ready to upgrade safely?
Back up your tree today and upgrade to Family Tree Maker 2024 with confidence.
If you need expert help or run into issues during the process, don’t hesitate to contact Family Tree Maker support and protect your genealogy work the right way.