My QuickBooks file will not open on the network
- First make a copy of the company file. Never work on your only copy while troubleshooting.
- Then check that the computer holding the file is on and that you can see its shared folder.
Try these steps, in order
- Make a safe copy. On the computer that holds the file, copy the company file (it ends in .qbw) to a folder or drive. Do this before anything else.
- Check the host computer. The computer that stores the file must be on, awake and on the network. Open the file on that computer first. If it will not open there, the file itself may be the problem.
- Check you can see the folder. On the other computer, open File Explorer and browse to the shared folder. If you cannot see it, this is a network or sharing problem, not a QuickBooks problem.
- Open from the shared folder path. Open QuickBooks, choose Open or Restore, and browse to the file in the shared folder. Do not copy the file to each computer. Everyone must use the one shared file.
- Make sure only one person hosts. If your version uses multi-user mode, only one computer should host. Switch hosting off on the others.
- Use Intuit's free repair tool. Intuit offers a free QuickBooks Tool Hub from its own website. It has tools for connection and file problems. Download it only from Intuit.
What not to do
- Do not rename or move the company file while people have it open.
- Do not keep separate copies on each computer. You will end up with different books on each one.
- Do not delete files with odd names beside your company file. They may be needed.
Why it is often a network issue
Many "QuickBooks" errors are really the computer not reaching the shared folder, or a firewall in the way. That is a job for someone who can look at the network and the settings together.
When to call a pro
- The file will not open even on the computer that holds it.
- You see an error code about the company file or the database server.
- The problem started after a computer, router or firewall change.
- You have no recent backup of the file. Do not wait. Call before you try anything else.
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Common questions
Is my QuickBooks data lost?
Usually not. The data is in the company file. Make a copy right away and ask for help before trying repairs on the only copy.
Can I use QuickBooks from home?
Yes, but it needs a safe way in, such as a secure remote connection or a cloud setup. Do not open your office network to the internet.
Should my accountant open the same file?
Share a copy or give your accountant a proper user login. Do not email the live file back and forth.
Keep reading
- Backups that actually work
- Wi-Fi is slow in the office
- IT for a small law, dental or accounting office
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