FTW File Extension

What is FTW file?

FTW is a file extension commonly associated with Family Tree Maker Format files. Family Tree Maker Format specification was created by Ancestry.com. FTW files are supported by software applications available for devices running Windows. FTW file belongs to the Data Files category just like 1326 other filename extensions listed in our database. The most popular software that supports FTW files is Family Tree Maker. Software named Family Tree Maker was created by Ancestry.com Inc.. In order to find more detailed information on the software and FTW files, check the developer’s official website.

Programs which support FTW file extension

Below is a table that list programs that support FTW files. FTW files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with FTW extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening FTW files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with FTW files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with FTW files.

Step 1. Get the Family Tree Maker

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports FTW files installed on the system. To address this issue, go to the Family Tree Maker developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Family Tree Maker website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update Family Tree Maker to the latest version

If the problems with opening FTW files still occur even after installing Family Tree Maker, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Family Tree Maker is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why FTW files are not compatible with Family Tree Maker. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Family Tree Maker.

Step 3. Set the default application to open FTW files to Family Tree Maker

After installing Family Tree Maker (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open FTW files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the FTW file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Family Tree Maker is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open FTW files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the FTW file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select Family Tree Maker and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with FTW extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the FTW file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the FTW file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the FTW file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the FTW is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the FTW file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the FTW file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with FTW extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic FTW file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. It could happen the the download process of file with FTW extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Family Tree Maker

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with FTW extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Family Tree Maker Format file. It may be the case that the FTW files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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