Purchasing FTM - is download-only sufficient?

[annesthreads]

Family Tree Maker 2019 is available as download-only, DVD or USB. My laptop doesn’t have a DVD, so that’s out. The USB version costs £25 more than download-only, if you count the postage in the price. If I get just the download, what happens if I replace or have to wipe my laptop at some point? Would I be able to download it again without too much hassle or any extra payment?

[groom]

I've alway only had the download. From what I remember you register it so presumably would be able to recover it as they would recognise you.

[[Ray]]

Hi

Back it up ( copy it to a usb stick? )

R

[Rosinish]

I would recommend Disc or USB

I have installed my disc on many computers/laptops including those of relatives/friends over the yrs & have been able to do research wherever I've been as I would save/transport my trees on disc/usb for uploading.

I don't know how downloaded versions work regarding installing on several comps/laptops?

Annie

[Guy Etchells]

Family Tree Maker 2019 is available as download-only, DVD or USB. My laptop doesn’t have a DVD, so that’s out. The USB version costs £25 more than download-only, if you count the postage in the price. If I get just the download, what happens if I replace or have to wipe my laptop at some point? Would I be able to download it again without too much hassle or any extra payment?

I don't use Family Tree Maker 2019 but most such programs allow a save option. This allows you to save the download file before installing it on your computer. You can then save that file on external drives or usb sticks etc in case of computer failure.
It is then simple to re-install using the original password or key

Cheers
Guy

[guest189040]

Keep a written note of all your registration information for the download, including serial number.

Then if you log in to the FTM website via a new PC you should be able to download the program again but you may have to deactivate the initial copy.

One of the reasons I choose Roots Magic as my software was that I can produce a fully working mobile version of the software that runs off a USB stick. 

[ChrissieL]

I had an old version of FTM. When my laptop stopped working I lost all the software.  I contacted FTM but after numerous attemps, I never did get it working again properly. I would definitely have it on a USB now after my experience.

Chris

[annesthreads]

Thank you all for the replies. I’m going to play safe and get the USB - that £25 could save me a lot of stress in the future!

[groom]

Why not contact MacKiev and ask them the question before you spend an extra £25. If they can reassure you that you can download it again you'll save yourself £25 - that will buy a lot of certificates or wills! 

This might help

https://support.mackiev.com/574163-Getting-a-Replacement-Download-for-FTM-2017