GED File Extension

What is GED file?

GED is a text file used for storing genealogical data generated by software compatible with GEDCOM (Genealogical Data Comunications) standard. GED format is commonly used by various family history software tools. Current version of GEDCOM specification is GEDCOM 5.5. upcoming version 6.0 will introduce support for XML standard. Mormon Church was actively involved in development of GEDCOM standard, chiefly due to religious reasons which involve extensive genealogical research.

Family history

GED files are used to store information regarding relationships between families and family members as well as family history data. GED files can be used a basis for re creating a family history or family tree.

Programs which support GED file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with GED files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with GED 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.

Updated: 11/15/2022

How to open file with GED extension?

Problems with accessing GED may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with GED extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Ages software

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports GED files installed on the system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Ages or different compatible program, such as RootsMagic, Ancestral Author, LifeLines. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support GED files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. If you want to download Ages installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update Ages to the latest version

You still cannot access GED files although Ages is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Ages cannot handle files with GED may be that the software is outdated. The most recent version of Ages is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open GED files to Ages

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

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Clicking the GED with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Ages installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open GED files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected GED file open the file menu and choose Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Ages and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with GED extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Verify that the GED is not faulty

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

1. Verify that the GED in question is not infected with a computer virus

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

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

If you obtained the problematic GED file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with GED extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Ages

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support GED files. Close all running programs and try opening the GED file.

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

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with GEDCOM Genealogy Data Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with GED files affecting older versions of given software.

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