GEDCOM File Extension

What is GEDCOM file?

GEDCOM is a file extension commonly associated with GEDCOM Genealogy Format files. GEDCOM file format is compatible with software that can be installed on Linux, Mac OS, Windows system platform. Files with GEDCOM extension are categorized as Data Files files. The Data Files subset comprises 1326 various file formats. Users are advised to use LifeLines software for managing GEDCOM files, although 4 other programs can also handle this type of file.

Programs which support GEDCOM file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support GEDCOM files. Files with GEDCOM extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

How to open file with GEDCOM extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening GEDCOM files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with GEDCOM files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install LifeLines software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening GEDCOM files is that no program that can handle GEDCOM files is installed on user’s system. The most obvious solution is to download and install LifeLines or one to the listed programs: GeneWeb, Ages, Gramps. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download LifeLines installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update LifeLines to the latest version

If you already have LifeLines installed on your systems and GEDCOM files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of LifeLines installed, it may not support GEDCOM format. The latest version of LifeLines should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate GEDCOM Genealogy Format files with LifeLines

If you have the latest version of LifeLines installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage GEDCOM on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the GEDCOM file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where LifeLines is installed, check the Always use this app to open GEDCOM files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

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

Step 4. Check the GEDCOM for errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the GEDCOM file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The GEDCOM may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the GEDCOM 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. If the GEDCOM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Verify that the GEDCOM file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic GEDCOM 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. When downloading the file with GEDCOM extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the GEDCOM Genealogy Format file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle LifeLines

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

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with GEDCOM Genealogy Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the GEDCOM files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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