How to Download Your Raw DNA File from AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, 23andMe & FamilyTreeDNA
Already taken a DNA test? You can download your raw DNA data file for free from any major provider and upload it to EchoDNA for a deeper ancestry analysis — including ancient DNA matches, admixture breakdowns, and trait predictions that your original provider doesn't offer.
What is a Raw DNA File?
When you take a DNA test with any major provider, they sequence hundreds of thousands of genetic markers from your saliva sample. Your raw DNA file is the complete, unprocessed output of that sequencing — a text file containing all of your genetic data in a standard format.
This raw file is yours to keep and use however you like. By uploading it to third-party tools like EchoDNA, you can unlock analyses that go far beyond what AncestryDNA or 23andMe provide in their standard reports — including matches to ancient historical populations, detailed admixture breakdowns, and physical trait predictions.
Below are step-by-step instructions for downloading your raw DNA file from each major provider.
How to Download Your Raw DNA File from AncestryDNA
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Log in to your account at ancestry.com.
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Click your username in the top-right corner and select "Settings".
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Scroll down to the "DNA" section and click "Test Management".
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Under your DNA test, click "Actions" then select "Download Raw DNA Data".
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You will be asked to confirm via an email link for security — check your inbox.
- 6
Once confirmed, click the download link. You will receive a .zip file containing your raw DNA (.txt) file.
How to Download Your Raw DNA File from MyHeritage
- 1
Log in at myheritage.com.
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Click "DNA" in the top navigation bar.
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Select "Manage DNA kits" from the dropdown.
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Click the three-dot menu (⋯) next to your kit and choose "Download DNA data".
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Enter your MyHeritage password to confirm.
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A .zip file containing your raw DNA file will be downloaded.
How to Download Your Raw DNA File from 23andMe
- 1
Log in at 23andme.com.
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Click your name/initials in the top-right and go to "Settings".
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Scroll to the "23andMe Data" section and click "View".
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Click "Download Raw Data" and select "All DNA Raw Data".
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Complete the security confirmation sent to your email.
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Download the .zip file — inside you will find your raw DNA .txt file.
How to Download Your Raw DNA File from FamilyTreeDNA
- 1
Log in at familytreedna.com.
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Click on your name in the top-right and select "Account Settings".
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Go to the "Raw Data" tab.
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Click "Download Raw Autosomal Data".
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A .zip file will download containing your raw DNA data file.
What Format is the Raw DNA File In?
All major providers deliver your raw DNA data as a .zip file. Inside you will find a plain text file (.txt or .csv) containing your genotype data — typically a table of SNP identifiers (rsIDs), chromosome numbers, positions, and your alleles.
EchoDNA accepts raw DNA files from all four providers listed above. Simply extract the .txt or .csv file from the .zip and upload it directly on our submission page.
Is it Safe to Upload My Raw DNA File?
Yes. EchoDNA uses encrypted file storage and processes your data privately. Your raw DNA file is never shared with third parties and is used solely to generate your personal report. You can read more about our data practices in our Privacy Policy.