How to Repair a Tree File in FTM 2017 and FTM 2019

Now and then, we experience damage to important items such as phones, machinery, or gadgets. We always try to fix them quickly because they are essential to our daily lives.

The same applies to the tree files we create or retrieve in Family Tree Maker 2017(FTM 17) or Family Tree Maker 2019 (FTM 19). Sometimes, these valuable tree files, which may have taken significant time and effort to build, can become damaged or corrupted.

This damage can occur due to several reasons, including merging unchecked files, malware or system virus attacks, inserting damaged data into the tree file, or improper shutdown of the FTM program or system.

What to Do If Your Tree File Gets Damaged

If you receive a notification in FTM 17 or FTM 19 that your tree file is damaged and inaccessible, there is no need to panic.

This guide will help you understand how to repair a damaged tree file efficiently. With the right approach, your data can often be recovered.

Getting a Damaged Tree File Repaired in FTM 17 and FTM 2019

A damaged tree file does not mean it is permanently lost. There are multiple ways to repair it. The most effective method is restoring a backup created before the damage occurred.

It is strongly recommended that every user of Family Tree Maker 2017 and 2019 maintains a reliable backup system to prevent data loss.

If you want to learn more about backups, refer to the guide on how to back up and sync logs in Family Tree Maker 2019.

However, if you do not have a backup, you can still try the following methods:

1. Compacting Your Tree File

• First, close your tree file.
• Go to the Tools menu and select Compact File.
• Click Open and locate your file.
• In the Compact File window, select the Perform Extended Analysis checkbox.
• Click Compact to begin the process.

The compaction process will display a percentage. Continue clicking OK until it reaches 0.00%. This helps repair minor corruption within the file.

2. Download Tree from Ancestry

You can also recover your tree by downloading it again from Ancestry. This can be done using different options:

Using Plan Workspace

• Go to the New Tree tab.
• Select Download a Tree from Ancestry.
• Locate your tree and click Download Tree.
• A Sync Weather Report will appear.
• Choose a new file name, set sync options, and click Download.

Using Tree Browser (FTM 2019)

• Click the View menu and select Tree Browser.
• Choose the Ancestry group.
• Select your tree from the list.
• Click Download Tree.
• Once completed, the tree will open in the People workspace.

Using Ancestry Sync Icon

• Click the Ancestry Sync icon on the right side.
• Select Download from Ancestry.
• Choose your tree and click Download Tree.

Conclusion

Repairing a damaged tree file in Family Tree Maker 2017 or 2019 is simple when you follow the right steps. Whether you use file compaction or download your tree from Ancestry, your data can often be restored successfully.

We hope this guide provides clear and helpful insights.

If you still need assistance, feel free to use the Contact Us option. Our support team is always ready to help you resolve any issue quickly and efficiently.

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