If you’ve ever switched genealogy software or tried to share your family tree with a cousin using a different platform, you’ve likely run into this term: GEDCOM. It might sound like military jargon or a 90s computer game — but in family history, it’s the genuine article. The unsung hero.—
GEDCOM stands for GEnealogical Data COMmunication, and it’s a universal file format (.ged) designed to make genealogy files transferable between systems. Whether you’re moving trees from your desktop program to MyHeritage or collaborating with a relative across the world, GEDCOM ensures your research comes along with you cleanly and completely.
Key takeaways on GEDCOM files
- GEDCOM is a standardized file format (.ged) used to share genealogy data between different software or platforms.
- It allows you to export and import family trees while preserving key information like names, dates, places, and relationships.
- GEDCOM doesn’t save images or documents, just the textual data structure of your tree.
- You can use GEDCOM to back up your research, share it with relatives, or import data into an online platform or tool.
- Most major genealogy services allow easy GEDCOM file uploads and downloads.
Why GEDCOM files matter in genealogy
Family history research is rarely a solo project, and it’s rarely static. As you grow your tree, there are tons of hurdles and challenges you might encounter. This could be:
- Starting with one software, then migrating to a new one
- Collaborating with relatives using different tools
- Uploading your work to a public archive
- Wanting a backup you can store offline
Without a GEDCOM file, each of those transitions would require you to re-enter every name, date, and relationship manually. GEDCOM makes things seamless. It acts like a universal translator, allowing tree data to flow between programs.
Most modern genealogy platforms support GEDCOM, and while some allow direct syncing, exporting a GEDCOM is still the safest way to share or move your data.
Step-by-step: How to use a GEDCOM file
Here’s how to get started with GEDCOM files in your own research:
Step 1: Export your tree from your current program
Look for an “Export” or “Download GEDCOM” option in your genealogy software or platform. This will create a .ged file containing your family data such as names, dates, places, and relationships. GEDCOMs do not include media files — however, if your photos are saved as URLs, this data can be transferred via GEDCOM.
Step 2: Save and store the file
Once exported, save the GEDCOM file to your computer, an external drive, or a cloud service. It’s a great way to back up your research, even if you’re not planning to switch programs.
Step 3: Import the file into a new platform
Log in to your destination platform (e.g., MyHeritage) and look for the “Import GEDCOM” option. Follow the prompts to upload your file. The platform will then rebuild your tree using the imported data.
Once imported into MyHeritage, you can enhance your tree with historical records, advanced DNA tools, and photo features.
Step 4: Review and re-link sources or media
Because GEDCOM files do not carry media files, you’ll need to re-upload any photos or documents manually. If your photos were saved as URLs, some platforms like MyHeritage may be able to import them. Some platforms also have proprietary data types or formatting, so it’s a good idea to double-check for any quirks after the import.
Step 5: Keep a backup
Even if you don’t plan to switch software again, keep your GEDCOM file updated periodically. It’s one of the easiest ways to preserve your research in the long term.
Tips for working with GEDCOM files
GEDCOM files are powerful, but like any tool, they work best when handled with care. Here are some practical tips to make the most of them:
- Review before exporting: Clean up any duplicate entries, broken relationships, or placeholder data in your tree. This helps avoid confusion later when importing.
- Standardize names and locations: Use consistent formats for names (e.g., full first names) and places (e.g., “Boston, Massachusetts, USA”). Uniformity ensures better compatibility across systems.
- Include source citations wherever possible: GEDCOM does support limited citation info, but the more structured your sourcing, the easier it will be to interpret or re-enter later.
- Back it up regularly: Your GEDCOM file is a snapshot of your research. Re-export every few months or after major updates, and store it securely on the cloud or external drives.
- Label clearly: If you’re managing multiple family trees or versions, label each GEDCOM file with the date and version (e.g., “SmithFamilyTree_July2025.ged”) to avoid mix-ups.
- Avoid sharing files with sensitive living-person data unless necessary: Consider trimming the file or anonymizing living relatives before sharing with distant cousins or researchers.
These habits not only protect your research but also make collaboration, troubleshooting, and migration significantly easier.
Genealogical data communication
The world of genealogy is full of stories, but without the right tools, those stories risk becoming locked in silos. GEDCOM files help unite those disparate silos of history. They allow you to move across platforms, work with family, preserve your progress, and ensure your hard-earned discoveries don’t stay stuck in a single place.
Although there is a slight learning curve in incorporating them into your research, GEDCOMs are the key to bringing the whole family together into your heritage journey.
Ready to share your family tree with someone new? Explore GEDCOM options and start uploading your tree on MyHeritage today.
FAQs about GEDCOM files
What information is included in a GEDCOM file?
A GEDCOM (.ged) file contains essential genealogy data: names, dates of birth, marriage, death, places, and relationships. It does not include photos, scanned documents, or attachments.
Can I import a GEDCOM file into MyHeritage?
Yes. MyHeritage supports GEDCOM uploads, allowing you to transfer your tree from other platforms or software without starting from scratch.
Will a GEDCOM file overwrite my existing tree on MyHeritage?
Typically, a GEDCOM upload creates a new tree rather than merging into an existing one. If a merge is needed, you may need to copy or manually merge entries after uploading.
How often should I export my tree as a GEDCOM?
It’s best practice to export regularly (for example, after major updates or annually) to maintain a secure backup of your research.
Are GEDCOM files compatible across all genealogy platforms?
GEDCOM is the industry standard, so most platforms can import/export them. However, because each system uses unique features, you may need to check for formatting issues or missing data after import.
