GED File Extension
GEDCOM Genealogy Data Format
- File Type ged
- Developer The LDS Church
- Popularity
- Application Aldfaer
- Category Data Files
- Format Text
What is a GED file?
The GED file extension is linked to GEDCOM Genealogy Data Format and belongs to the Data Files category, which includes 6196 files.
GED files are supported by Mac OS, Windows and Linux. When working with GED files, you can rely on 10 programs, including Family Tree Builder, MacFamilyTree and yEd.
Programs that support GED files
How to open a GED file?
If you can’t open a GED file, it is usually because the necessary software is missing. To resolve the issue, select the right program from the list for your operating system. Then go to the official website of the developer, download the software, and install it.
The most popular programs for working with GED files are Family Tree Builder, MacFamilyTree and yEd. To install the latest version of Aldfaer on your computer, visit the Stichting Aldfaer website where you can download the version available for all operating systems.
Following installation, GED files should be automatically opened with Aldfaer.
Set Aldfaer as your default GED viewer
Changing the default program in Windows
- Right-click on your GED file, then choose the "Open with" option and select "Choose another application" from the available options;
- From the list of applications in the pop-up window, find and select Aldfaer as your desired application;
- Check the "Always use this app" checkbox, and then click "OK" to set your chosen app as the default for opening GED files.
Set default app to open files on Mac
- Right-click or Control + left-click on the desired GED file to open a menu of available actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- Look at the bottom of the window, where you will see the "Enable" menu. "Recommended Programs" will be selected as the default option;
- Within this menu select "All Programs" and navigate to Aldfaer. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.
Convert to and from GED
If you have trouble working with a GED file, try converting it to JPG, PDF, SVG or similar data files.
Please note that after converting a GED file, some functionality may differ from the original. However, in many cases, it can be converted back to its original format.
Convert GED to other file formats
Solving Common GED File Challenges
When issues arise with GED files, they can generally be fixed with small software tweaks. Use the troubleshooting tips below to help resolve them.
What are the warning signs that my GED file may be corrupted?
Corrupted GED data files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Error messages appear during the course of working with the file;
- Poor performance when editing a file in Family Tree Builder;
- Attempts to open the file result in errors or failed results;
- Unexplained increase in GED file size;
- The file causes Aldfaer or other programs to hang or crash during operation;
Why does Aldfaer crash?
Aldfaer crashes can be caused by outdated software. Keep your Stichting Aldfaer products up to date by installing the latest updates.
A simple restart of your computer can often fix many common problems, which is why it is the recommended first step before making any adjustments to your software settings.
How to repair a corrupted GED file?
Use a data recovery program to open the damaged GED file and from the menu choose "Repair" function to start the repair process. Please be patient while the recovery process completes, which will automatically restore the damaged data files.
How to edit a GED file?
To edit GED files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify data files. Online GED editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for GEDCOM Genealogy Data Format.
Best GED editors in 2026
Taking into account the provided details, we have prepared a list of GED editors that match your needs.
| GED Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| MacFamilyTree | Synium | Mac OS | 4.8 out of 5 (39 reviews) |
| The Complete Genealogy Builder | - | Windows | 4.6 out of 5 (40 reviews) |
| Family Tree Builder | MyHeritage Ltd. | Windows, Mac OS, Linux | 4.1 out of 5 (39 reviews) |