How to download your raw DNA file from Ancestry.com

You can download your raw DNA data (also called your DNA data file) from Ancestry.com and save it to your computer. This file contains your underlying genetic information collected from your AncestryDNA test and is often used for analysis on other platforms like SelfDecode.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions

1. Log in to Your Ancestry Account

Go to the Ancestry.com website and sign in with your email and password.

2. Go to Your DNA Results

Click the DNA tab at the top of the page.
Select Your DNA Results Summary to view the overview of your test.

3. Open Settings

On the DNA results page, click Settings (usually near the top right).
Scroll down to the Download or Delete section.

4. Start the Download Request

Click Download DNA Data.
You may be asked to re‑enter your password to continue.
You might also be offered a choice to receive a verification code by email — if you choose that option, enter the code you get.

5. Check Your Email for the Download Link

An email from Ancestry.com will be sent to your account’s email address with a secure download link.
It can take up to 24 hours for this email to arrive, so check your inbox (and spam/junk folders).

6. Download Your Raw DNA Data File

Open the email and click the download link.
This will take you back to the Ancestry site, where you can download your raw DNA data file — typically a .zip file.
Save the file to your computer.

Notes & Tips

The raw data file is usually named dna-data-(date).zip and includes your genetic markers in a text format inside.
The secure download link expires after about a week and can be used only once. If it expires, you’ll need to request a new download.
Once downloaded, the file is no longer protected by Ancestry’s internal security, so treat it carefully and only upload it to services you trust.

Want to know if you really need a SelfDecode DNA kit if you already have a raw DNA file from another provider? Check out this article to see the benefits of using a SelfDecode kit, including more complete genetic coverage, exclusive reports, and optimized accuracy for our platform. Even if you’ve already uploaded a DNA file, it’s worth reading to see what extra insights you could gain!

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