How to find the right Filemaker Database Management AI guide

Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge.

What the AI looks for in Filemaker Database Management

File format
Current FileMaker versions use the .fmp12 format, which opens in FileMaker 12 and later. Files from older versions must be converted. This decides whether an existing database opens without conversion.
Pro vs Server vs Go
FileMaker Pro builds and uses databases, FileMaker Server hosts them for multiple users, and FileMaker Go runs them on iPhone and iPad. Buyers often purchase Pro when they need Server hosting for a team.
OS version support
Check the release's supported macOS and Windows versions against your machines. Older FileMaker releases often fail to install or run on newer operating systems.
Version naming
Claris moved from numbered versions (such as 19) to year-named releases. Compare the release year to identify current versions. This prevents buying an outdated box listed as new.

Brands that matter

What to avoid

  • Boxed copies of old numbered FileMaker versions that do not support your current OS.
  • Using peer sharing from FileMaker Pro in place of FileMaker Server for a whole team.

Questions

Do I need FileMaker Server?

Only if several people need reliable shared access or remote access. A single user or a very small group can work with FileMaker Pro alone.

Decided by claude-opus-5-5 (opus-5-5_g1), knowledge as of 2026-06, generated October 29, 2026. Written by an AI model from its trained knowledge, without web search. How picks are made.

All of Database Management