How to Repair GEDmatch Compare Tool Kit Number Error: Easily

GEDmatch is a widely used platform for genetic genealogy, allowing users to compare DNA kits from multiple testing companies to uncover family connections and analyze shared ancestry. One of its most important features is the Compare Tool, which enables users to compare two DNA kits directly. This tool displays shared DNA segments, total centimorgans, largest segment sizes, and potential relationships, making it essential for advanced genealogical research.

However, users sometimes encounter issues where the Compare Tool displays a “kit number error.” This error prevents the tool from functioning and can be frustrating, particularly for those actively working on family research. Understanding why this error occurs and how to resolve it is crucial for restoring access to the Compare Tool.

This article explains common causes of GEDmatch Compare Tool kit number errors and provides step-by-step solutions to repair them.

Understanding the Compare Tool Kit Number Error

The Compare Tool kit number error usually occurs when the GEDmatch system cannot locate or validate one or both of the DNA kit numbers entered. The tool relies on accurate kit numbers to retrieve genetic data from the database and generate results.

When a kit number error occurs, users may see messages such as “Invalid Kit Number,” “Kit Not Found,” or “Error Processing Kit.” The issue can arise from user input mistakes, account restrictions, incomplete kit processing, or technical issues on GEDmatch’s end.

Common Causes of Kit Number Errors

Identifying the underlying cause of the kit number error is the first step toward resolving it. The most common reasons include:

Incorrect Kit Number Entry: Even a small typo, extra space, or missing character in the kit number can cause an error.

Incomplete or Unprocessed Kit: Newly uploaded DNA kits require processing before they can be compared. If the kit has not completed processing, the tool cannot access it.

Deleted or Disabled Kit: If a kit has been deleted, retired, or disabled, it will no longer be accessible for comparison.

Privacy Settings and Permissions: Kits set to restricted or research-only mode may not be available for comparison.

Subscription Limitations: Certain advanced features of the Compare Tool require a Tier 1 subscription. An expired subscription may prevent access to these features.

Server or Technical Issues: Temporary server errors, database updates, or maintenance can occasionally cause the tool to misinterpret kit numbers.

Recognizing the potential cause helps determine the most effective repair method.

Verify Kit Number Accuracy

The first and simplest step in repairing a kit number error is to ensure that both kit numbers are entered correctly.

Copy the kit numbers directly from the GEDmatch dashboard rather than typing them manually. Check for extra spaces, missing characters, or incorrect prefixes. Even minor mistakes can trigger errors, so precision is essential.

Check Kit Processing Status

A kit number error can occur if a DNA kit is not fully processed. After uploading raw DNA data from a testing company, GEDmatch requires time to process the kit before it is available for all tools.

Log into your GEDmatch account and check the processing status of both kits. If either kit is still processing, wait until it is marked as complete. Attempting to use the Compare Tool with an incomplete kit will trigger errors or display blank results.

Review Kit Privacy Settings

GEDmatch allows users to control the privacy of their DNA kits. Kits that are set to restricted visibility or research-only mode may not be accessible to the Compare Tool.

Check the privacy settings of both kits and ensure they are set to allow matching and comparisons. Adjusting the settings can resolve errors related to kit accessibility.

Verify Account and Subscription Status

Some features of the Compare Tool, including certain options for segment display and advanced comparisons, require a Tier 1 subscription.

If you are experiencing a kit number error, check your account dashboard to confirm that your subscription is active. Renewing or upgrading a subscription may restore full functionality if the error is due to feature limitations.

Clear Browser Cache and Cookies

Web-based tools like GEDmatch rely on scripts and stored data to function correctly. Cached files and cookies can occasionally interfere with tool operations, including the recognition of kit numbers.

Clear your browser cache and cookies, then close and reopen the browser. Log back into GEDmatch and attempt the comparison again. This often resolves errors caused by outdated or conflicting browser data.

Update Your Web Browser

An outdated web browser may not fully support the GEDmatch interface and its features.

Ensure your browser is updated to the latest version. Modern browsers like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari provide better compatibility and security. Using an updated browser reduces the likelihood of errors and improves overall performance.

Disable Browser Extensions

Certain browser extensions, such as ad blockers, script blockers, or privacy-focused add-ons, may interfere with GEDmatch tools. These extensions can prevent the Compare Tool from accessing the database correctly, leading to kit number errors.

Temporarily disable all browser extensions and refresh the Compare Tool page. If the tool works after disabling extensions, re-enable them one by one to identify the source of interference. Configure the extension to allow GEDmatch scripts to prevent future issues.

Test on a Different Device or Network

Device-specific problems or network instability can sometimes cause kit number errors.

Try accessing GEDmatch and the Compare Tool from another device, such as a laptop, tablet, or smartphone. Switching to a different internet connection may also help, as slow or unstable networks can prevent proper tool operation. If the Compare Tool functions on another device or network, the original setup may require adjustment.

Re-upload DNA Files if Necessary

In rare cases, the original DNA file may be incomplete or corrupted, preventing the Compare Tool from recognizing the kit number.

Consider re-uploading the raw DNA file from the testing company. Allow GEDmatch to fully process the kit before attempting a comparison again. This ensures that data integrity issues are resolved and reduces the likelihood of recurring errors.

Contact GEDmatch Support

If the kit number error persists despite following all troubleshooting steps, contacting GEDmatch support is recommended. Provide clear information about the issue, including kit numbers, the browser and device being used, error messages received, and any troubleshooting steps already attempted.

Support staff can investigate account-specific or system-wide issues and may be able to restore access to the Compare Tool or identify database problems that require administrative intervention.

Maintain Backups and Records

To prevent disruption in research due to kit number errors, regularly save and backup comparison results. Export data or screenshots of important comparisons to external storage or cloud services.

Keeping organized records ensures that research can continue even if temporary access issues arise with the Compare Tool.

Final Thoughts

The GEDmatch Compare Tool Repair is an essential feature for genetic genealogy, enabling users to analyze shared DNA segments and confirm relationships. Kit number errors can be frustrating, but most issues are caused by simple factors such as incorrect entries, incomplete kit processing, privacy settings, subscription limitations, or browser conflicts. By verifying kit numbers, reviewing account and privacy settings, updating browsers, managing extensions, and contacting support when necessary, users can typically restore functionality. Maintaining backups and organized records ensures ongoing access to valuable data, allowing genealogists to continue exploring family connections with confidence and accuracy.