Setting up Family Tree Maker software after installation is an important step to begin your genealogy journey. Whether you are using FTM 2019 or FTM 2024, the setup process is almost the same. In this guide, you will learn how to configure Family Tree Maker, connect it with Ancestry or FamilySearch, and adjust settings for smooth performance. This article follows Google Helpful Content guidelines and uses simple, human-friendly language for easy understanding.
What Is Family Tree Maker Software? (Quick Overview)
Family Tree Maker (FTM) is a popular genealogy program used to build, organize, and share family trees.
Important features include:
- Tree-building tools
- Media organization
- Syncing with Ancestry.com
- Smart filters and charts
- Backup and recovery options
Before using these features, you must set up the software correctly.
How to Set Up Family Tree Maker Software After Installation
Below are the step-by-step instructions to help you set up FTM smoothly. Follow each step carefully.
Step 1: Launch Family Tree Maker for the First Time
After installation:
- Double-click on the FTM icon on your desktop.
- Wait for the software to load.
- You will see a welcome screen with setup options.
Tip: If a pop-up asks for updates, click Yes to install the latest patch.
Step 2: Register Your Product
Registering your Family Tree Maker software is important for support and updates.
To register:
- Click Help > Register FTM
- Enter your name, email, and license key
- Click Submit
This gives you access to:
- Free updates
- Priority tech support
- Product verification
Step 3: Sign In to Ancestry or FamilySearch (Optional but Recommended)
Connecting FTM with Ancestry or FamilySearch helps you sync data and access historical records.
To Sign In to Ancestry:
- Open Family Tree Maker
- Go to File > Connect to Ancestry
- Enter your login credentials
- Click Allow Access
To Sign In to FamilySearch:
- Go to File > FamilySearch Login
- Enter your username and password
- Click Login
Benefits:
- Download records
- Sync online and offline trees
- Avoid duplicate data
Step 4: Create or Import Your First Tree
You can either create a new tree or import an existing one.
Create a New Tree
- Click New Tree
- Enter your name as the home person
- Add your basic family details
- Save your file as .ftm
Import an Existing Tree
You can import:
- GEDCOM files (.ged)
- Older FTM files
To import:
- Go to File > Import Tree
- Select your file
- Click Open
Note: FTM automatically checks for duplicate entries.
Step 5: Adjust Important Settings
Proper settings will make your software run smoothly.
1. Backup Settings
- Go to Tools > Options > Backup
- Turn on Automatic Backup
- Choose backup location (recommended: external drive)
2. Sync Settings
- Click Sync Options
- Choose Manual Sync or Automatic Sync
3. Display & Privacy Settings
Go to Tools > Options > General
- Turn on Private Facts
- Enable Hints
- Adjust home person view
4. Media Management
- Go to Options > Media
- Enable Link media automatically
- Organize media into folders
Step 6: Add Photos, Documents, and Media
Enhance your family tree by adding:
- Photos
- Birth certificates
- Marriage records
- Census documents
- DNA reports
How to Add Media:
- Select a person
- Click Media Tab
- Click Add Media
- Choose file from your computer
FTM automatically links it to the selected person.
Step 7: Explore Tree Tools and Charts
Family Tree Maker gives powerful visualization tools:
- Pedigree view
- Family view
- Descendant charts
- Relationship reports
- Timeline view
Use the Publish tab to explore all charts and reports.
Conclusion
Setting up Family Tree Maker software after installation is simple if you follow the steps correctly. Once you register your software, connect to Ancestry or FamilySearch, adjust key settings, and create or import your tree, you are ready to explore the powerful features of FTM. With proper setup, the software runs smoothly, keeps your data safe, and makes your genealogy research easy and enjoyable.
FAQs: Family Tree Maker Setup
1. Do I need an Ancestry subscription to use FTM?
No. You can use FTM without Ancestry, but some features like record hints and syncing require a subscription.
2. Can I install FTM on more than one computer?
Yes, you can install it on multiple computers, but you must use the same license key.
3. What file format does FTM support for importing trees?
FTM supports GEDCOM, FTM, and FTMB backup files.
4. Can FTM work without the internet?
Yes, Family Tree Maker works offline. You only need internet for syncing and downloading records.
5. How do I update Family Tree Maker?
Go to Help > Check for Updates and install the latest version.