Many genealogy tools call themselves “free”, but the limits appear quickly: capped number of individuals, paid features, or a requirement to upload your tree to a server. Here is how to find your way.
Free and open-source, truly unlimited
Open-source software such as Gramps, Ancestris or webtrees is free, with no limit on the number of people and no ads. It installs on your computer (or your server for webtrees) and you keep full control of your data.
The trade-off: installation is required, and the interface sometimes takes a little getting used to.
The “free” online services
The big platforms (Geneanet, MyHeritage, Filae, Ancestry) offer limited free access, then a subscription to unlock searches, matches and archives. FamilySearch, run by a non-profit, offers very rich free access.
The common thing to watch: your tree is hosted on their servers. Read the terms of use to know what is done with your data.
What really matters
Beyond price, three criteria make the difference: no installation (to test or troubleshoot quickly), the independence of the tool (not being locked into an ecosystem), and ownership of your data (knowing where it goes).
Where Genea World fits in
Genea World is free and unlimited, and it requires no installation: it runs directly in your browser. It is independent — it reads the standard GEDCOM format that every program can export and import.
Most importantly, your data never leaves your device: no upload to a server, no commercial exploitation, and no use to train artificial intelligence. It is an ideal companion to view, correct or convert a file in full privacy.
Ready to explore your genealogy?
Open your GEDCOM file now. It’s instant, free and private.