FTMB File Extension

What is FTMB file?

In files with the .FTMB extension, which stands for Family Tree Maker Backup, there is a backup copy of a genealogical tree project. The file is created by the genealogical tree creation application Family Tree Maker Software by MacKiev, available for Windows and Mac OS systems. Currently, the software is no longer continued, with the last version being FTM 2019.

What information is contained in FTMB files?

FTMB file is a backup copy of an FTM or FTW file. It contains many detailed pieces of information that the program's recording capability facilitates. The genealogical tree allows logically linking primarily:

• data of individuals in the tree,
• relationships between individuals,
• dates of events associated with people,
• locations,
• photographs, audio files, videos, and documents.

The latest versions of the software enable data storage in the cloud, which allows access from any authorized location. This represents an even greater level of genealogical data security.

Handling FTMB files in Family Tree Maker

An .FTMB file enables data recovery in situations where the source file has been damaged. Family Tree Maker allows it to be opened and the version of the tree stored in the file to be restored. This format is also supported by several other genealogical tree creation programs, in which, for example, tree data can be exported to the more universal GEDCOM format. The FMT software also allows for quick data synchronization with the Ancestry.com website.

Programs which support FTMB file extension

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

Updated: 03/11/2024

How to open file with FTMB extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening FTMB files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with FTMB files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Family Tree Maker software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports FTMB files installed on the system. The solution is straightforward, just download and install Family Tree Maker. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Family Tree Maker installed is by going to developer’s website (Ancestry.com Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Family Tree Maker

If the problems with opening FTMB 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. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why FTMB files are not compatible with Family Tree Maker. The most recent version of Family Tree Maker is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign Family Tree Maker to FTMB files

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate FTMB files with latest version of Family Tree Maker you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the FTMB file
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Family Tree Maker installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open FTMB files box and clicking OK button.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with FTMB extension, 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 FTMB extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the FTMB is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the FTMB file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the FTMB file for viruses or malware

If the FTMB is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. FTMB file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic FTMB file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. It could happen the the download process of file with FTMB extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Family Tree Maker Backup file again.

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

If the systems has insufficient resources to open FTMB files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Family Tree Maker Backup files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with FTMB files affecting older versions of given software.

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