Download Raw Data from 23andMe: Every Step and Beyond

Below are the steps you need to take to download your raw data from 23andMe. Simply follow the steps below to the letter, and you will have your DNA data file on your desktop in no time! That’s the easy part…

After you get your raw DNA data downloaded, the real adventure begins! You can upload your data file to literally dozens of third-party DNA testing companies to get loads of information that 23andMe did not report on. In fact, that’s what we do here at Genomelink. 

Not only do we offer 25 free traits simply for uploading your raw DNA data, but we’ve also compiled all of the best DNA analysis sites out there. So, follow the step below to download your raw DNA data and get the most out of your DNA!

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How To Download 23andMe Raw Data File:

Downloading your raw data file is simple. The methods below will take you directly to the 23andMe site, where you will have to login. Once you login, follow the remaining steps to get your DNA data file. Each of these methods is a separate way to navigate to your raw DNA data. (You only need to choose 1.)

1. Type or copy this address into your browser:
   https://you.23andme.com/tools/data/
   This will take you directly to the data page, and you should see a link to “Download Raw Data.”
   
   
2. Login to your 23andMe account at 23andMe.com. At the bottom of the page, you will see a link called “Resources” - click this link and select “Browse Raw Data.” This will take you to your data page where you will find a link to “Download Raw Data.”
   
   
3. Login to your 23andMe account at the 23andMe Homepage. On the Navigation Bar, click “Account Settings”, then click on “View” under 23andMe Data. Click the blue “Download Raw Data” button.

Each of these processes take you to a download page where you will have to scroll down until you see the “Submit Request” button. Your raw data download takes some time to prepare, and when it is done you will be sent an email. The email will contain a download link. Click the link, and you will be taken to a webpage that will automatically prompt the download. Choose where the download will be saved on your computer.

Don’t Forget: The Downloaded File will be Zipped!

Depending on your computer’s operating system, your computer may automatically unzip the file, or you may have to do it manually. Many DNA upload sites do not require you to unzip the file before you upload it, so check with the site you are planning on uploading to for instructions on how to use the file. If you unzip the file into a normal “.txt” file, you can view it on your computer. The raw genetic data text won’t mean much to you, since the genetic information must be matched to a database that stores information about each of the variants you carry. 

*For AncestryDNA (Ancestry.com) & MyHeritage users: the process of getting your DNA file is similar, and can be used on most of the same DNA report sites. Simply login, navigate to the download page, and get your zip file. 

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What are the Risks of Downloading Genetic Data?

At this point, you may be wondering if downloading your DNA data comes with any risks. Since your DNA data literally represents your DNA code, this file can be considered a type of personally identifiable information. So, you shouldn’t give it to just anyone. 

That being said, Genomelink and all of the third-party DNA analysis companies that we recommend use a method of anonymizing your data to ensure that your data is never connected to your name or other personally identifiable information. In fact, this is the same method that 23andMe is using to store and research your data (which you opted into when you started using 23andMe). So, there is very little risk associated with using 23andMe, Genomelink, or any of the sites we recommend. 

The one exception to this rule is if you are currently wanted by law enforcement for any severe crimes. Law enforcement officials can subpeona records from 23andMe and other DNA testing companies to find DNA matches to crime scenes they are investigating. 

TL;DR:  Using DNA tests and Downloading Raw Data is generally safe for everyone except wanted criminals. 

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What Can You Do With Your Raw DNA Data File?

Here is where it starts to get really fun. 23andMe only reports on the most rigorously researched, well-documented, and most prominent DNA traits. But, the world of DNA testing is just starting to open up. There are literally hundreds of traits related to your DNA that 23andMe has missed as genomics science rapidly expands outward. 

For instance, here at Genomelink we focus on 5 different areas: Food & Nutrition, Intelligence, Physical Traits, Personality, and Sports. In fact, we cover over 200 traits not found on 23andMe! You can find out how well you absorb Vitamin B12 from your food, how your genes relate to your cognitive ability, how different genetic variants may impact how long you like to sleep, whether your genes make you prone to social communication problems, and even find out if your particular genetic variants may make you a good sprinter! 

With each trait that we predict we show you exactly which studies the genetic variants were uncovered in, examine how thoroughly these genetic correlations were researched, and break everything down in an easy-to-understand way. You can also check out the Genomelink Blog to learn more before you sign up, where we teach our users about genetic science, the difference between correlation and causation, and many other useful tips for having fun while you explore your genetic code!

But, Genomelink is not alone in bringing the science of DNA to users around the globe. You should also check out our article on the Best FREE DNA Upload Sites that you can use with your raw DNA data. These sites are the best of the best when it comes to analyzing your DNA code, and many of them will give you tons of information for free.

You can search for DNA matches and living family members on GEDmatch, see the actual scientific articles about your SNPs on Promethease and SNPedia, and get lots of other genetic testing information through other sites. For instance, you can see how you are related to ancient populations, and get diet, exercise, and wellness recommendations based on your personal genotype.

Welcome to the world of DNA! Your journey starts here. Have fun!