Family Tree Maker is an excellent tool for creating and managing your family history. Like any software, it’s important to keep it updated to ensure you’re using the latest features, bug fixes, and enhancements. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to update your Family Tree Maker software to ensure you have access to the latest improvements and genealogical tools.
Steps to Update Family Tree Maker:
- Check for Updates:
The Family Tree Maker software usually notifies you when a new update is available. If you don’t see the notification, you can manually check for updates by opening the software and navigating to the “Help” menu. Select “Check for Updates” to see if any new updates are available for your version. - Update via the Family Tree Maker Website:
If the automatic update option doesn’t work, you can visit the official Family Tree Maker website to download the latest version. Simply go to the “Downloads” section, find the version that corresponds to your operating system, and click the “Download” button. - Install the Update:
After downloading the update, locate the installation file and double-click it. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update. The software will automatically replace the older version with the latest one, so you won’t lose any of your family tree data. - Restart the Software:
Once the update is installed, restart Family Tree Maker. The updated version will open, and you can immediately start using the new features and improvements. - Backup Your Family Tree:
Before updating, it’s always a good idea to back up your family tree. You can use the cloud storage feature or export your tree in a backup file format (e.g., GEDCOM) to prevent any data loss.
Why Keeping Your Family Tree Maker Updated Is Important:
- Access New Features: Family Tree Maker regularly releases new features to make family tree creation easier and more powerful.
- Bug Fixes: Updating ensures any previous software bugs are resolved, improving your overall experience.
- Improved Performance: Updates can improve the software’s speed and functionality, making it more efficient to build and manage your family history.
- Compatibility with New Records: Updates also ensure compatibility with new historical records and databases for genealogical research.
Conclusion:
Keeping Family Tree Maker updated is simple and ensures you get the most out of your genealogy journey. With new features, improved performance, and security fixes, updating your software regularly will enhance your family history-building experience.