* V2.1

[ernest]

I have had V2.1 since inception (18yrs ??).
What is the value in upgrading to V6.

[gwilym'smum]

There is going to be a new version soon (if the virus doesn't stop things) so possibly better to wait
Ann

[ColeValleyGirl]

If you follow the links for the various versions at how_to:about#version_history|> Version History you'll see there have been a load of new features since 2.1 (which is where I started as well), and there are even more coming in v7...

There has been so much change you might find it sensible to get to grips with v6 while waiting for v7. I'm pretty sure you can't buy an upgrade from v2 to v6, so you could buy a new licence for v6 (which should come with a free upgrade to v7 when it's available). Your data from 2.1 will be readable in v6 without any problems, but if you've done any customisations of v2.1 you might have to transfer those manually...

[tatewise]

Ernest, exactly which version of FH V2.1 installation CD do you have?
If it is earlier than V2.1.8 or with a copyright date earlier than 2005 then it will be difficult to re-install on any modern PC and will need a special CD-Backed Installer. See how_to:install_on_64-bit_windows|> Family Historian on 64-bit Windows Variants details.

I am surprised that you never even upgraded to the latest free FH V2.3.5 that is still available.
See https://www.family-historian.co.uk/down ... ad-archive on Version 2 tab.

That installation problem is just one that is fixed by FH V6/V7 but there are too many others and too many new features to describe here. See the Knowledge Base link given by Helen.

Probably the biggest change is the introduction of Projects in FH V4 that collect all the GEDCOM and Media files together with other data into an organised folder structure understood by FH.

Purchase FH V6 online from Calico Pie at https://store.family-historian.co.uk/pr ... -download/
It includes a free downloadable upgrade to V7 when released but at today’s lower V6 price!
They do not sell boxed set CD.

If uncertain about upgrading, then first ensure you have a FULL backup of your V2 GEDCOM & Media files.
Download the FH V6 free 30-day trial from https://www.family-historian.co.uk/down ... -day-trial and give it a go.
If you decide to buy online from Calico Pie then you can apply the licence to that downloaded version.
If you decide to stick with FH V2.1 then you will need that FULL backup because FH V6 radically changes the GEDCOM file, i.e. it is NOT backward compatible.