Family Tree Maker (FTM) is one of the most popular genealogy software programs used by researchers and family historians. However, one common issue many users encounter is FTM Not Connecting to the Internet. This problem can be frustrating because internet connectivity is essential for syncing your trees, accessing Ancestry hints, downloading records, and using the program to its full potential.

If you are experiencing FTM Not Connecting to the Internet, don’t worry. This guide covers possible reasons, step-by-step solutions, and best practices to ensure smooth connectivity.

Why Does FTM Require Internet Access?

Before diving into troubleshooting, it is important to understand why Family Tree Maker needs internet access. FTM connects to online resources such as Ancestry and FamilySearch to provide historical records, hints, and syncing features. Without an internet connection, you can still view your offline tree, but you miss out on the main benefits.

When you see FTM Not Connecting to the Internet, it typically means the software cannot communicate with external servers. This can block features like:

• Syncing your FTM tree with Ancestry.

• Downloading or updating media files.

• Accessing web search results.

• Verifying login credentials.

Common Causes of FTM Not Connecting to the Internet

Several factors can trigger the FTM Not Connecting to the Internet error. Understanding the root cause is the first step toward solving it. Some common reasons include:

• Firewall or Antivirus Blocking – Security software may prevent FTM from accessing the web.

• Weak or Unstable Internet – A slow connection can stop FTM from syncing properly.

• Outdated Software Version – Older FTM versions may fail to connect without updates.

• Incorrect Login Credentials – If Ancestry or FamilySearch login fails, FTM cannot connect.

• Server Issues – Sometimes, the issue lies with Ancestry or FTM servers.

• Proxy or VPN Settings – These can interfere with how FTM communicates online.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix FTM Not Connecting to the Internet

When you encounter FTM Not Connecting to the Internet, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check Your Internet Connection

Start with the basics. Open a browser and try visiting any website. If the page does not load, the issue is with your connection, not FTM. Restart your router and reconnect to ensure stability.

2. Update Family Tree Maker

An outdated version of FTM often causes connectivity errors. Go to the official MacKiev website and check for updates. Installing the latest patch ensures that FTM Not Connecting to the Internet issues are minimized.

3. Verify Login Credentials

If your Ancestry login fails within FTM, re-enter your username and password. Sometimes, resetting your Ancestry account password resolves the connectivity issue.

4. Adjust Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Your firewall or antivirus program may block FTM from accessing the web. Add Family Tree Maker to the list of trusted applications. This prevents security software from interfering with its connection.

5. Restart the Software and Computer

A simple restart can often fix FTM Not Connecting to the Internet. Close FTM, reboot your computer, and relaunch the program. Many users report that this resolves temporary glitches.

6. Disable Proxy or VPN Services

If you use a proxy or VPN, FTM may not connect properly. Disable these services temporarily and try syncing again.

7. Check Ancestry or FTM Server Status

Sometimes the issue is not on your side. Visit the Ancestry or MacKiev support page to confirm if there is a server outage. In such cases, you only need to wait until service is restored.

8. Repair FTM Installation

If none of the above works, reinstall or repair your Family Tree Maker software. This step ensures corrupted files are replaced, fixing connectivity issues.

Preventive Tips to Avoid FTM Not Connecting to the Internet

To reduce the chances of facing FTM Not Connecting to the Internet again, follow these preventive tips:

• Always keep Family Tree Maker updated.

• Maintain a stable and secure internet connection.

• Regularly check firewall and antivirus settings.

• Avoid using multiple VPNs or proxies while syncing.

• Log out and log back into your Ancestry account periodically.

These practices will help you enjoy uninterrupted access and prevent recurring issues.

When to Contact Support

If you have tried all troubleshooting steps and still face FTM Not Connecting to the Internet, it may be time to contact technical support. The official MacKiev support team provides live chat and email assistance. Additionally, Ancestry support may help if the problem relates to account credentials or server errors.

Professional assistance ensures your problem is handled quickly, saving you valuable research time.

Final Thoughts

Experiencing FTM Not Connecting to the Internet can be frustrating, but the good news is that most issues have simple solutions. By checking your internet connection, updating your software, adjusting security settings, and verifying login details, you can often fix the problem within minutes.

Once the issue is resolved, you regain access to powerful FTM features like syncing, downloading records, and enjoying Ancestry hints. Fixing FTM Not Connecting to the Internet not only restores functionality but also makes your genealogy research smoother, more reliable, and far more enjoyable. if you need help, you can call our experts at +1-888-427-8070.