.GEDCOM File Recovery

Have files been deleted due to a user’s error or software error? Have you formatted a disk by accident and need to know how to recover the files? Read our .GEDCOM file recovery guide for Windows, MacOS, Android and IOS in 2024.

GEDCOM File Recovery
Data Recovery Tool

What is a .GEDCOM file?

Genealogy file formatted using the GEDCOM (GEnealogical Data COMmunication) standard; contains genealogy data, such as a family tree and information about individuals within the family tree; saved in a text format.

What Are Common Causes of ".GEDCOM" Files Lost or Failure?

There are several common causes of ".GEDCOM" files being lost or failing:

  1. Human error: Accidental deletion or overwriting of the ".GEDCOM" file by the user can result in its loss.
  2. Software issues: Incompatibility or bugs in the genealogy software being used can cause ".GEDCOM" file failure or corruption.
  3. Hardware failure: Hard drive crashes, power outages, or other hardware malfunctions can lead to the loss of ".GEDCOM" files.
  4. File system issues: Corruption or errors in the file system can render the ".GEDCOM" file inaccessible or unreadable.
  5. Virus or malware infection: If the computer or storage device containing the ".GEDCOM" file gets infected by a virus or malware, it can result in file corruption or loss.
  6. Improper file transfer: If the ".GEDCOM" file is not transferred correctly, such as interrupted downloads or incomplete uploads, it can lead to file failure.
  7. Storage media issues: Damage to the storage device, such as a hard drive or USB drive, can result in the loss or corruption of ".GEDCOM" files.
  8. Software updates: Sometimes, updates to genealogy software can cause compatibility issues with existing ".GEDCOM" files, leading to failure or loss.

To minimize the risk of losing ".GEDCOM" files, it is recommended to regularly backup the files to multiple locations, use reliable storage devices, keep software and systems up to date, and be cautious while handling and transferring files.

How to recover lost ".GEDCOM" files?

Sometimes while working with a computer, laptop or other stationary or mobile devices, you may encounter various bugs, freezes, hardware or software failures, even in spite of regular updates and junk cleaning. As a result, an important ".GEDCOM" file may be deleted.

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🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

🧺 How to Recover Files and Folders After Sending Them to the Recycle Bin and Deleting? (Windows 11)

By no means should you think that the only way to recover a ".GEDCOM" file is always to create it once more.

Use programs for recovering ".GEDCOM" files if a file was lost after accidental or deliberate deleting, formatting the memory card or the internal storage, cleaning the storage device, after a virus attack or a system failure.

Programs to recover ".GEDCOM" files

Looking for a way to get files back? In cases when files were deleted and they cannot be restored by using standard operating system tools, use Hetman Partition Recovery.

Partition Recovery™ 4.9
The tool recovers data from any devices, regardless of the cause of data loss.
Download

Follow the directions below:

  1. Download Hetman Partition Recovery, install and start the program.

  2. The program will automatically scan the computer and display all hard disks and removable drives connected to it, as well as physical and local disks.

    File Recovery Software

  3. Double-click on the disk from which you need to recover ".GEDCOM" files, and select analysis type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Analysis Type

  4. When the scanning is over, you will be shown the files for recovery.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Files that Can be Restored

  5. To find a file you need, use the program’s interface to open the folder it was deleted from, or go to the folder "Content-Aware Analysis" and select the required file type.

    Hetman Partition Recovery - Deep Scan

  6. Select the files you have been looking for and click "Recovery".

    File Recovery Software - Files List for Recovery

  7. Choose one of the methods for saving the files and recover them.

    Saving recovered files in Hetman Partition Recovery

How to open file with ".GEDCOM" extension?

Looking for how to open a stereo gEDCOM Genealogy File image file file?

Programs that open ".GEDCOM" files

Windows
Ancestral Author Ancestral Author
LifeLines LifeLines
Ages! Ages!
Mac
GeneWeb GeneWeb
GEDitCOM GEDitCOM
Linux
LifeLines LifeLines
Gramps Gramps

Additional Information

  • File type: GEDCOM Genealogy File

  • File extension: .GEDCOM

  • Developer: N/A

  • Category: Data Files

  • Format: N/A

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Comments (1)

  • Hetman Software: Data Recovery
    Hetman Software: Data Recovery 18.12.2019 16:25 #
    Leave a comment if you have any questions about Recovering lost .GEDCOM files after deleting, cleaning or formatting!
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Vladimir Artiukh

Author: Vladimir Artiukh, Technical Writer

Vladimir Artiukh is a technical writer for Hetman Software, as well as the voice and face of their English-speaking YouTube channel, Hetman Software: Data Recovery for Windows. He handles tutorials, how-tos, and detailed reviews on how the company’s tools work with all kinds of data storage devices.

Oleg Afonin

Editor: Oleg Afonin, Technical Writer

Oleg Afonin is an expert in mobile forensics, data recovery and computer systems. He often attends large data security conferences, and writes several blogs for such resources as xaker.ru, Elcomsoft and Habr. In addition to his online activities, Oleg’s articles are also published in professional magazines. Also, Oleg Afonin is the co-author of a well-known book, Mobile Forensics - Advanced Investigative Strategies.

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Questions and answers

  • What is the process of recovering data from a GEDCOM file?

    The process of recovering data from a GEDCOM file involves the following steps:

    1. Obtain the GEDCOM file: If you don't already have a GEDCOM file, you may need to obtain it from the source where it was originally created or from a backup.
    2. Choose a genealogy software: Select a genealogy software program that supports the GEDCOM file format. Some popular options include Ancestry.com, Family Tree Maker, Legacy Family Tree, and MyHeritage.
    3. Import the GEDCOM file: Open the chosen genealogy software and look for the option to import or open a GEDCOM file. Select this option and navigate to the location where the GEDCOM file is stored. Choose the file and initiate the import process.
    4. Review and verify data: Once the GEDCOM file is imported, the software will display the recovered data. Review the information to ensure it has been imported correctly. Check for any missing or corrupted data.
    5. Resolve any issues: If there are any errors or missing data, you may need to manually correct or fill in the information. This can involve editing individual records, merging duplicate entries, or adding missing details.
    6. Save and export the recovered data: Once you have reviewed and resolved any issues, save the recovered data within the genealogy software. Most software programs allow you to export the data in various formats such as GEDCOM, CSV, or PDF.

    Note: It is important to keep backups of your GEDCOM files to ensure that you can recover your genealogical data in case of any loss or corruption.

  • What are some common reasons for needing to recover data from a GEDCOM file?

    There are several common reasons for needing to recover data from a GEDCOM file:

    1. Accidental deletion: If a user accidentally deletes or loses their family tree data, they may need to recover it from a GEDCOM file backup.
    2. Computer crash or hardware failure: If a computer crashes or experiences a hardware failure, it can lead to data loss. Recovering data from a GEDCOM file can help restore the family tree information.
    3. Software issues: Sometimes, software glitches or bugs can cause data corruption or loss. Recovering data from a GEDCOM file can be a solution to retrieve the lost information.
    4. Migration to a new genealogy software: When switching to a new genealogy software, users often export their family tree data to a GEDCOM file. If any data is lost or corrupted during the migration process, recovering the data from the GEDCOM file becomes necessary.
    5. Collaboration and sharing: GEDCOM files are commonly used for sharing family tree data with others. If someone receives a GEDCOM file and wants to extract specific information from it, they may need to recover the relevant data.
    6. Genealogy research: Researchers may come across GEDCOM files containing valuable information related to their genealogy research. Recovering data from these files can help in expanding their family tree or verifying information.
    7. Data backup and restoration: Regularly creating backups of family tree data in GEDCOM format is a common practice. In case of data loss due to any reason, recovering the data from the GEDCOM backup becomes necessary for restoration.

    Overall, the need to recover data from a GEDCOM file arises primarily from accidental loss, data corruption, software issues, migration, collaboration, research, and data backup purposes.

  • Are there any specific tools or software programs available for GEDCOM recovery, and if so, what are their features and capabilities?

    Yes, there are several tools and software programs available for GEDCOM recovery. Here are a few examples:

    1. Ancestris: Ancestris is an open-source genealogy software that supports GEDCOM files. It allows you to import and export GEDCOM files, making it useful for recovering data from corrupted or damaged files. Additionally, it offers various features such as data management, research tools, and collaboration options.
    2. Family Tree Maker: Family Tree Maker is a popular genealogy software that supports GEDCOM files. It provides a GEDCOM repair tool that can help recover data from corrupted GEDCOM files. The software also offers features like data organization, research assistance, and chart creation.
    3. Legacy Family Tree: Legacy Family Tree is another genealogy software that supports GEDCOM files. It includes a GEDCOM validation and repair tool that can help recover data from damaged files. The software also offers features such as data management, research tools, and multimedia support.
    4. GEDCOM Validator: GEDCOM Validator is a standalone tool specifically designed for validating and repairing GEDCOM files. It can help identify and fix errors in GEDCOM files, making it useful for recovering data. The software also provides various validation options and detailed reports.
    5. MyHeritage: MyHeritage is an online genealogy platform that supports GEDCOM files. It allows you to import GEDCOM files and offers a GEDCOM repair tool to recover data from corrupted files. Additionally, it provides features like data management, research tools, and collaboration options.

    These tools and software programs vary in their specific features and capabilities. Some focus solely on GEDCOM recovery, while others offer a comprehensive set of genealogy features. It is recommended to explore their websites or documentation to understand their full range of features and capabilities.
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