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How to Download Your 23andMe Raw Data

Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to download your genetic data.

Why download your data?
4 quick reasons:  It may be something you need in the future. 23andMe could change their policy on allowing downloads. They could go out of business at some point. You may want to delete your 23andMe account one day.

Download your raw data from 23 & Me:

Once you have access, here’s where to go:

Step 1) Click Sign In on 23andMe.com

Log in to 23andMe.com here. Enter your email address and password.

If you’ve forgotten your password, there is a link to reset it. Click the “Forgot your password” link and enter your email address to get a password reset email.

Sign in button on 23andMe

 

Step 2) Go to your account information

Click on your name in the upper right corner of the page. If you are on a mobile device, tap on the menu icon on the top right corner of the screen.

Settings on 23andMe for browse raw data and download

 

Step 3) Click Resources:

Step 4) Click Browse Raw Data

Click on browse data. 

 

Step 4) Find the download link

Click on the download link.

The button to download is in the top middle of the screen next to the underlined Browse.

screenshot of the download raw data button on 23andme

 

Step 5) Request your raw data

You will need to submit a request to download your data. Click on the check box and submit your request to download your raw data.

screenshot of how to request your raw data on 23andme

At this point, it depends on when you did the test as far as how 23andMe does the verification process to make sure of your identity.

 

Step 6) Wait for an email letting you know it is ready

It may take a couple of days to process the request, depending on how they do the verification of your identity. 23andMe will send you an email when it is ready.

 

Step 7) Download to your computer

Click on the Download Raw Data button.

 

Step 8) View your downloaded raw data

Your download should start automatically. The file will be a .zip file. Double-click the zip file to access the text file with your raw data.

It will look like this:

screenshot showing what the raw data file looks like

 

Step 9) Store it safely

For most people, the downloaded file will end up in your Downloads folder, amongst everything else you’ve ever downloaded. Take a minute now and move the downloaded file to a folder in your documents. Label the folder “DNA” or “Genes” so that you can find it again. You may also want to back up the file to an offline storage device such as an external hard drive, if you have one.

Step 10) Use your 23 and Me data!

Learn about your health and optimize your wellness!

Your raw genetic data holds a treasure trove of information on optimizing your health.

Start here on Genetic Lifehacks with articles about health topics that are important and interesting. All articles are well documented with links to high-quality research studies. Dive in and get started with learning about your genes :-)

Suggestions for getting started:


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This article explains how circadian rhythm and genetics impact depression, and it wraps up with research-backed solutions. Note: If you are under a doctor’s care, always talk to your doctor before making any changes.


About the Author:
Debbie Moon is the founder of Genetic Lifehacks. Fascinated by the connections between genes, diet, and health, her goal is to help you understand how to apply genetics to your diet and lifestyle decisions. Debbie has a BS in engineering from Colorado School of Mines and an MSc in biological sciences from Clemson University. Debbie combines an engineering mindset with a biological systems approach to help you understand how genetic differences impact your optimal health.