Ancestry · access anywhere

How to Login Ancestry on New Device?

Upgrading your phone, switching to a new tablet, or using a library computer? A successful ancestry login new device ensures your family tree, DNA results, and saved records are always available. This guide walks you through the process of signing in on any new device – whether it's a laptop, iPhone, Android, or even a friend's computer – while keeping your account secure.

Before you log in on a new device

A little preparation makes the process smooth and prevents lockouts.

Login on a new computer or laptop (web browser)

🌐 Web login steps

  1. Open your browser and go to the Ancestry sign‑in page: ancestry.com (or your regional domain).
  2. Click the Sign in button at the top right corner.
  3. Enter the email address and password associated with your Ancestry account.
  4. If you have two-factor authentication enabled, a code will be sent to your authenticator app, SMS, or email. Enter that code when prompted.
  5. After successful verification, you will land on your Ancestry homepage. Your tree, hints, and DNA information will load.
  6. If this is a personal device, you may choose to check “Remember me” for faster future logins. On a shared or public device, leave this unchecked.

That's all. Your ancestry login new device is complete – all your data is synced from the cloud.

Login on a new phone or tablet (app)

The process is nearly identical whether you use iPhone, iPad, or Android.

📱 App login steps

  1. First, download the official Ancestry app from the App Store (iOS), Google Play Store (Android), or Amazon Appstore (Kindle).
  2. Open the app. On the welcome screen, tap Sign in.
  3. Enter your Ancestry email and password.
  4. If 2FA is active, input the temporary code when asked.
  5. After a moment, the app will load your home screen with your tree, DNA matches, and recent hints.
  6. For future convenience, you can enable fingerprint or face login when prompted.

Your new device now has full access to your Ancestry account. Any changes you make will sync across all devices.

Tip: If you have both the main Ancestry app and the AncestryDNA app, you need to log in separately to each. Use the same credentials.

What if you don't have your password handy?

It's common to forget your password, especially when setting up a new device. Here's what to do:

This process does not cancel your subscription or delete any data – it simply resets access.

Two-factor authentication on a new device

If you have 2FA enabled, your new device will ask for a verification code. If you no longer have access to your authenticator app or phone, you can use one of the backup codes provided when you set up 2FA. Keep those codes in a safe place. If you lost both, you may need to go through Ancestry's identity verification process (contact support).


Troubleshooting: common new device login issues

📵 “Too many failed attempts”

If you enter the wrong password multiple times, Ancestry may temporarily lock the account for security. Wait 15–30 minutes and try again. Meanwhile, reset your password if you're unsure of it. Avoid repeated attempts on the new device – they extend the lockout.

🔐 Two-factor code not arriving

If you use an authenticator app, open it and use the current code. If you use SMS, ensure the new device has reception and your phone number is correct in Ancestry settings. If you use email 2FA, check spam. Still stuck? Use a backup code if you have one.

🔄 App stuck on loading after login

Sometimes the app may freeze after you sign in on a new device. Try closing the app completely and reopening it. If that doesn't work, restart your phone. Ensure the app is updated to the latest version. As a last resort, uninstall and reinstall the app – your data is safe online.

🌐 Region or country redirect

If you are traveling or moved to a new country, Ancestry may automatically redirect to a local domain (e.g., ancestry.co.uk). This is fine – your account works globally. If you cannot log in, ensure you are using the correct regional sign‑in page or use the app which handles redirection automatically.

👤 “This account is already signed in on another device”

Ancestry allows simultaneous logins on multiple devices. This message rarely appears; if it does, it might be a security alert. Check your email for any unusual activity. You can review active sessions in your account settings (on the web) under “Security” or “Active sessions” and log out any unfamiliar devices.

Security best practices when adding a new device


Frequently asked questions

Can I stay logged in on multiple devices?

Yes, Ancestry allows you to be signed in on multiple devices simultaneously – for example, your phone, tablet, and laptop can all be active at the same time. Changes sync across them quickly.

Will logging in on a new device log me out elsewhere?

No, it does not automatically log you out of other devices. You remain logged in on all devices unless you manually sign out or use the “Sign out of all devices” feature in account settings.

I lost my old phone with the authenticator app – how do I log in on my new phone?

If you saved your backup codes when you set up 2FA, use one of them to log in. Then, in your account security settings, you can reset your 2FA method and set up the authenticator on your new phone. If you have no backup codes, you will need to contact Ancestry support for identity verification.

Does the new device need the same app version?

It's always best to have the latest version of the app. Download the app from your device's official store – it will be the correct version for your operating system.

I use Sign in with Apple/Google. How do I log in on a new device?

If you originally signed up using “Sign in with Apple” or “Sign in with Google”, use the same button on the new device. Do not try to enter a password manually. Tap the appropriate social sign‑in and follow the prompts.

Conclusion

Logging into Ancestry on a new device is designed to be straightforward. Whether you're on a new laptop, phone, or tablet, just enter your email and password, complete two-factor verification if you use it, and you're in. Your entire family tree, DNA data, and saved records are waiting for you. By following the steps and tips above, you can ensure a smooth transition to any new device and keep your account secure.