GDZ File – What is .gdz file and how to open it?

lightbulb

GDZ File Extension

GEDZip Genealogy Data File – file format by FamilySearch

The GDZ (GEDZip Genealogy Data File) file extension is a compressed genealogy data file format developed by FamilySearch. It contains genealogical information, such as names, dates, places, and relationships, in a compressed format. GDZ files are commonly used for sharing and preserving genealogical data.

GDZ File Format

A GDZ file is a genealogy data file that is developed by FamilySearch. It is a compressed file that contains a genealogical database. The GDZ file format is used to store and share genealogical data, and it can be opened by a variety of genealogy software programs.

GDZ files are typically created by scanning and digitizing genealogical documents such as census records, birth certificates, and marriage licenses. The GDZ file format preserves the original images of the documents, as well as the extracted genealogical data. This makes it possible to view the original documents and to search for specific genealogical information.

Using FamilySearch Family Tree

The official and recommended method to open a GDZ file is through FamilySearch Family Tree. This online platform provides access to the vast collection of digitized historical records maintained by FamilySearch. To open a GDZ file in FamilySearch Family Tree:

  1. Log in to your FamilySearch account.
  2. Navigate to the “Search” tab.
  3. Select “Records” from the drop-down menu.
  4. In the “Search Records” field, enter the relevant details related to the file (e.g., location, date, surname).
  5. Click “Search.”
  6. From the search results, locate the file with the corresponding GDZ file name.
  7. Click the “View Record Images” button to open the GDZ file.

Using Third-Party Software

Alternatively, you can use third-party software applications to open GDZ files. One such application is “Family Tree Maker,” which supports the import of GDZ files. To open a GDZ file using Family Tree Maker:

  1. Install Family Tree Maker on your computer.
  2. Launch Family Tree Maker.
  3. Go to “File” > “Import” > “From GEDCOM File.”
  4. In the file browser, navigate to and select the GDZ file.
  5. Click “Open” to import the GDZ file into Family Tree Maker.

GEDCOM and the GDZ File:

GEDCOM (Genealogical Data Communication) is a genealogical data exchange file format developed in the early 1980s. It is designed to facilitate the sharing of genealogical information between different genealogy software programs. A GDZ file is a compressed GEDCOM file that has been zipped for efficient storage and transfer. GDZ files are typically used to share genealogical data online or via email.

Benefits of Using GDZ Files:

GDZ files offer several advantages over traditional GEDCOM files. First, they are compressed, which significantly reduces their file size. This makes it easier to store and share large genealogical datasets. Second, GDZ files are more secure than GEDCOM files as they are protected by a zip password. This ensures that sensitive genealogical information is not accessible to unauthorized persons. Third, GDZ files are platform-independent, meaning they can be opened and read by different genealogy software programs on various operating systems.

Other Extensions