When working with Family Tree Maker (FTM) 2017, 2019, or 2024, keeping your family tree data safe is a top priority. One of the most helpful tools in FTM is the Sync Weather Status, a real-time system that alerts you to the current syncing conditions between Family Tree Maker and Ancestry. Understanding this system can help you avoid sync errors, protect your family tree, and make the most of your FTM experience.
What Is Sync Weather Status?
Sync Weather Status is a color-coded system that provides real-time updates on the safety and stability of syncing your family tree. It helps users know when it’s safe to sync and when it’s best to wait. The weather status works as follows:
- Green Weather: Syncing is fully available and safe.
- Orange Weather: Minor interruptions are detected. Syncing is possible but not recommended at this time.
- Red Weather: Major interruptions have occurred. Syncing is temporarily blocked to protect your data.
The purpose of this system is to help prevent sync failures and ensure your tree stays intact.
How the Sync Weather System Works?
Family Tree Maker uses global monitoring points to continuously check the connection between the FTM software and Ancestry servers. When the system detects even a small interruption, it immediately changes the status to red and temporarily blocks syncing for five minutes to avoid potential issues. If no further problems are found, the system then switches to orange for one hour, where syncing is technically possible but still not fully safe. Once stability is confirmed, the sync weather returns to green, signaling that it’s safe to resume syncing.
There are also times when larger or ongoing issues cause the sync weather to stay orange or red for extended periods. In such cases, detailed updates and explanations are provided in the Sync Weather window within the software.
Why Does Sync Weather Change?
Most interruptions that trigger a change in sync weather are beyond the control of Family Tree Maker. Some common reasons for weather changes include:
- Temporary server problems at Ancestry
- Internet connection drops or instability
- Regional connectivity issues
- Routine system maintenance by FTM or Ancestry
The FTM team works closely with Ancestry’s engineers to monitor and address these interruptions quickly, improving the system’s ability to handle such challenges over time.
Best Practices for Safe Syncing
Here are some key tips to ensure you sync your tree safely:
1. Always Create Manual Backups:- Before syncing, make a manual backup of your family tree file. This is the best way to protect your data in case of unexpected errors.
2. Sync Only During Green Weather:- Check the Sync Weather Status before syncing. Syncing is safest when the status is green. If you see orange or red, it’s better to wait until the status turns green again.
3. Keep Your Software Updated:- Always update your Family Tree Maker to the latest version to benefit from sync system improvements and bug fixes.
- FTM 2017: Latest update is version 23.3
- FTM 2019: Latest update is version 24.2
- FTM 2024: Ensure you have the most current version installed
Final Thoughts
The Sync Weather Status in FTM 2017, 2019, and 2024 is a valuable safety feature that helps protect your family tree data from sync-related problems. By paying attention to the weather status and following the recommended syncing practices, you can manage your tree confidently and securely.
If you ever face sync issues or need help understanding the sync weather, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Family Tree Makers Support Team for assistance.
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