QuickBooks Multi-user mode, a feature built into QuickBooks, has aided many businesses in using the application. As its name implies, multiple users can work on the same company file simultaneously without any confusion. However, each user must have a QuickBooks License on their workstation to access this feature.

One common issue that arises with QuickBooks Multi-user mode is when workstations try to launch a company file located on the server computer. In some cases, an error message may not be displayed, but QuickBooks keeps opening in single-user mode.

In this article:

This blog discusses various forms of the same error, which can range from the inability to switch into multi-user mode to error codes like H202, Error H505, and 6000 series of errors. Read through the entire article to learn about the solutions to fix the QuickBooks Error.

Why You Might Be Unable to Use QuickBooks in Multi-User Mode

If QuickBooks isn’t installed on your server computer, it can cause this error.
Multi-user mode won’t function properly if the hosting settings on your network aren’t configured correctly.
Incompatibility between the computers on your network, often due to firewall issues, can also prevent multi-user mode from working.
Improper file or folder permissions can be another cause.
Finally, if the Database Server can’t open the company file, it can trigger errors in QuickBooks multi-user mode.

Pre-conditions Before Fixing “QuickBooks Multi User Mode Not Working”

Ensure that you install the same version of the QB Database Server Manager that your QuickBooks uses.
Check the Windows file permissions with administrative privileges.
Avoid opening multiple company files on the same workstation, as this can cause problems with multi-user mode.

Using QuickBooks File Doctor

The QuickBooks File Doctor helps users determine whether their computers can run QuickBooks in multi-user mode. It is available on Intuit’s website.

You can use this tool by Downloading QuickBooks Tool Hub > Run QuickBooks File Doctor.

Having completed these settings, run the file doctor again and see if the multi-user mode not working error persists or if it has been resolved. If it does, use the second method.

Methods to Fix QuickBooks Multi User Mode Not Working Error in Desktop

Below are the methods which can help you resolve the error “QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Not Working”:

Method 1: Renaming the .TLG and the .ND Files

The network data and transaction log files in QuickBooks, .ND and .TLG, respectively, help in connecting to and opening the company file. Renaming these files triggers QuickBooks to create new ones that are free from any corruption and damage since damage in any of these files might result in problems accessing the company file in QuickBooks.

Below are the methods to help you locate the .TLG and .ND files before renaming them.-
You have to the Company File for QuickBooks Desktop.
Then you have to press the F2 key while you are on the Home page.
A window with Product Information appears. You can find the location of the Company File under File Information. The same folder contains the .TLG and .QBW .ND files.

To rename the above-mentioned files, you have to right-click on them from the location.

Method 1: If Database Server Manager Fails to Open the Company File

The very first step is to open and navigate the QuickBooks Database Server Manager on your server computer desktop.

Then, open the Start menu and enter “Database” in the space provided.
After that, click on the Browse option and search for the required folder in the “Company File(s) QBW” if you are not able to locate it.
Finally, click on the OK button followed by Start the Scan button.
With QDSM, even firewall permissions are repaired after the scan.
Click on Close.

The above-given steps will repair the firewall permissions. Now, the user needs to check whether the multi-user mode not working problem has been resolved. If not, the user should proceed to the next step.

Method 2: If Host Mode Settings are Configured Inappropriately

Multi-user mode errors can be resolved by checking the host mode settings on all server computers.

The first step is to explore the QuickBooks File menu on your computer system. Then, open Utilities.
If you see “Host Multi-User Access” appearing on the list, move to the next computer. This is because it just indicates that the system you were at earlier was not the one hosting the company file.

But, if “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access” gets displayed on the list, in that case, you are supposed to enable the QuickBooks single-user mode followed by disabling the hosting.
After successfully off the hosting mode on all the user computer systems, check if the error “QuickBooks multi-user mode not working” is resolved.

Method 3: Check Whether QuickBooks Services are Running

Verify that the server PC is running QBCF Monitor Service and QuickBooks DBXX (where XX is the year of QuickBooks).

You have to enter services.msc in the Windows search bar to start the first step. Then you have to press the Enter key to continue.

You have to look out for the Services Window to see the QuickBooks DBXX service. If this does not appear, then you have to follow the given steps:
- You have to ensure the server is correctly installed with the Database Server Manager.
- You have to look out for the corresponding, latest Database Server Manager. The Manager receives an upgrade just like every year following the installation of QuickBooks Desktop on the user’s machine.
- One must make sure that hosting is enabled on the server in case the full software is running on the computer.
The QuickBooks DBXX service should be double-clicked after that. Once the service starts, one of two options should be available: Running or Start option.

For the first, second, and subsequent failures under the Recovery tab, you have to choose the option to restart the QuickBooksDBXX Service in the next step.
- First failure, Second Failure, and Subsequent failures.

Repeat the same steps for QBCFMonitorService.

The user needs to open QuickBooks in multi-user mode on each of the work computers after taking the previously mentioned steps. This is to see if the ‘QuickBooks multi-user mode not working‘ problem has been resolved or not.

The user must verify their membership in the QuickBooks DBXX service if the issue continues and an error message appears. The administrator group should include the membership service, and it should have all necessary permissions.

Method 4: Make Sure QuickBooks Must be able to Send Data

To solve the multi-user mode issue, take these two steps:

Change the Settings of Firewall and Antivirus

The main cause for this problem could be a firewall or antivirus program. If a firewall setting is the cause of the problem, you can create exceptions in the firewall settings to let QuickBooks transmit data. If your antivirus is causing the issue, adjust it to fix the error.

You have to press the Windows key and then click the Control panel.
Then you have to find and select the Windows firewall option.
Select the prompt to approve “An app through the Windows firewall option“.
Click the checkbox next to the public list for the QuickBooks application and then tap Change settings.
Press OK after that, and then you have to click on the Public for the application.
Run QuickBooks in multi-user mode to see if the issue has been resolved.

To Perform File Path Testing follow the below procedure:

This step is needed to turn on Network Discovery.

To launch the Run command, press the Windows button and the R key (Windows + R keys), type ping [servername], and then press the Enter key.

Test path and ensure QuickBooks can communicate with the server

Use UNC path (Universal Naming Convention) on your computer to access the server’s shared folder.
Finally, you have to use the UNC path to return to the QuickBooks company file.

Method 5: Create a New Company File Folder

For the Company file, Create a New Folder. Make sure to reach the Host system.
Moving forward, you must configure the folder and for the new folder allow Windows to Access Permissions.
The company files can be shared across systems.
Copy the .QBW File to the New Folder right away, and make sure the company file is opening in multi-user mode. The problem is now resolved if it opens up properly.

Method 6: If System Firewall Settings are Misconfigured

The following instructions show how to re-configure Windows Firewall settings so QuickBooks can run in multi-user mode if they are not configured correctly.

Begin by clicking on the Windows button
To access the Windows Firewall setting, type Windows Firewall into the Search box.
You have to choose the Firewall Advanced option that is in the left sidebar.
The inbound and outbound rules are located on the Advanced Settings tab.
Choosing Inbound Rules will prompt you to select New Rules.
After selecting Port in the New Rule Windows, you have to select TCP.
You have to add the Port based on the version of QuickBooks you are using.
The previous actions must be repeated while leaving out the outbound rules.
- For QuickBooks Desktop 2019, enter 8019, XXXX.
- For QuickBooks Desktop 2020 and later, enter 8019, XXXX.
- Type port Numbers 8019, 56728, and 55378–55382 for QuickBooks Desktop 2018.
- Type port Numbers 8019, 56727, and 55373-55377 for QuickBooks Desktop 2017.

QuickBooks Desktop 2019, 2020, and later versions use dynamic ports.

You have to add QuickBooks to the Firewall.
The only difference is that this time, rather than selecting a port, we will add the QuickBooks Program to our inbound and outbound firewall rules. Otherwise, all of the processes listed above remain the same.
You have to select New Rule under Advanced Firewall configuration.
This time, you have to select the application and then go to the directory that contains the executable file for the program.

Here’s a list of some executable files along with their locations:

Executable files	Location
IntuitSyncManager.exe	C:\Program Files\Common Files\Intuit\Sync
QBCFMonitorService.exe	C:\Program Files\Common Files\Intuit\QuickBooks
AutoBackupExe.exe	C:\Program Files\Intuit\QUICKBOOKS YEAR
QBW32.exe	C:\Program Files\Intuit\QUICKBOOKS YEAR
QBLaunch.exe	C:\Program Files\Common Files\Intuit\QuickBooks
OnlineBackup.exe	C:\Program Files\QuickBooks Online Backup
FileManagement.exe	C:\Program Files\Intuit\QUICKBOOKS YEAR

Each of the above-mentioned files should be included in the Inbound rules.
To apply the outbound Rules you have to follow the same steps.
Finally, Restart your computer to make sure the issue has been fixed.

Method 9: Ping Your Server from a Workstation

Turn on Network Discovery before beginning the procedures below to fix the QuickBooks multi-user not syncing problem. The server and workstations that cause QuickBooks Error H505 must be turned on.

Open the Start menu on your server and workstations where QuickBooks is stuck in single-user mode.
Enter Network into the search bar to launch the Network and Sharing Center.

Windows Network and Sharing Center Screenshots

Change Advanced Sharing Settings by clicking on it. Turn on File and Printer Sharing and Network Discovery after that.

Windows Turn on Network Discovery and File and Printer Sharing Screenshots

Then get the name of the server.
Now you have to type CMD into the Run window from the search bar and then you have to hit Enter.
After typing the line ipconfig/all in the CMD window, and then you have to press Enter.

Right next to the Host Name on the screen is the Server Name.
Now you have to note down the Host Name.
Go to the workstation so you can test the server. You may now require technical assistance to get further, especially if you are a beginner.
Launch the Run command window by clicking the Start button.
In the Run window, you have to type CMD.
Then, Enter the command ping_[your server name]. Without the brackets, type the server name.

Fix QuickBooks Multi User Mode Not Working in macOS

This article will come to a close in the hopes that the below information will be useful for you in resolving the QuickBooks multi-user issue with QuickBooks for Mac.

Method 1: Check if the Server of QuickBooks is Running or Not and if the File of the Company is Shared or Not

Hit the Go button and then click on the Applications.
Now, Double-click on the QuickBooks 20XX Server.app icon.
Share the following files if necessary.
- If the file is listed in the NOT SHARED list then choose that file and click on the Start Sharing button to share it.
- If the file is not listed in the list then use the plus sign + for adding a file in the list.

Always remember only a host computer should have the QuickBooks Server program installed and active on it. Also, verify if the QuickBooks Server program is installed on the same computer where the company file is running.

Method 2: Check for the Firewall Setting of MacOS

Follow the following steps for checking the firewall setting:

Navigate to the Apple menu and select System Preferences from there.
Now, Click on the Firewall under the Security & Privacy tab.
Navigate and select the Firewall Options. If the button is grayed icon then hit the lock icon to select the lock icon.
Check if the setting of the QuickBooks Server app’s Incoming Connections is set to Allow or not.

Steps need to be followed to check the permission

First, You have to select the System Preferences from the Apple menu.
Now, Choose the Sharing icon from the Apple menu.
Tick the File Sharing checkbox to enable it.
Now, In the list of Shared Folders, add the company file’s storage location’s folder.
To add the folder, you have to click on the + sign in the Shared Folder column.
Now, You have to search for the company file by clicking on the browse button and then look for the file from the desired location where it is and then hit the Add button.
Ensure that the Read and Write Permission is set to everyone or just for the individual users who will be using QuickBooks under the Users column.

Method 4: Check if the Bonjour Service is Working Properly on all Computers or not

Below are the steps that you have to follow to check the Bonjour service on the computers.

First, You have to choose the File and then the New Finder Window.
Ensure that all the QuickBooks-using machines are also visible in the Shared area.
Now, Check if these ports are open or not (in case they are not then open them): 5297 TCP, 5298 TCP/UDP, 53535 UDP, and 56565 TCP.

Method 5: Check for the Configuration of the Network

The interaction between the QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Server may occasionally be impeded due to the issue of hardware. So, to resolve the issues follow the following steps:

If you are utilizing the wireless internet then turn off your Wi-Fi and unplug the Ethernet cord.
Now, You have to restart your computer by clicking on the start button and selecting the restart menu from the list of options.
Open your QuickBooks with the help of using Username and password and then activate the multi-user mode.

Make sure that all the systems are connected to the same network. If you are using wireless internet then all the systems are need to be connected with same wifi.

Method 6: Settings of Peer-to-Peer Direct Connection

You can use an Ethernet cable for the establishment of a peer-to-peer connection between two computers. Following are the explained steps for the same:

First, You have to turn off both the computers that you want to connect by plugging the Ethernet wire into the Ethernet ports on each machine.
Now, Switch on your computers, once the system is on wait for some time, the Bonjour service ought to make it possible for both the machines they see one another. Choose a file, then a New Finder Window to confirm that both systems are connecting to the same network. Ensure that the other QuickBooks-using machines are visible in the Shared area.
Now, Open QuickBooks by logging in using user ID and Password then click on a File and Enable Multi-user mode, and then from the list of shared computers pick the computer that you want to use as the host for the QuickBooks Server.
On the second computer you have to open QuickBooks, and then Access Your Company File from the list of Shared Files.

The above-mentioned information will help you to fix the QuickBooks Multi User Mode Not Working error, its primary causes, and the associated troubleshooting steps. After carefully following the debugging approaches listed above, if you still fail to help yourself out, feel free to contact the Dancing Numbers experts via LIVE CHAT.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Switch to multi-user mode in QuickBooks?

To switch to multi-user mode in QuickBooks, a user must click on the File menu from QuickBooks’ upper left corner. Select Switch to Multi-user mode, from the dropdown menu. After switching to multi-user mode in QuickBooks, all users will have access to log into the company life at one time. However, going back to single-user mode will be possible only if all other users are logged out.

Why is QuickBooks so slow in multi-user mode?

The primary reason behind QuickBooks being so slow in multi-user mode is network congestion. A delay in data processing and transmission is noticed when 3 to 5 users are working on the same QB account at once. This crowded command in one account leads to network congestion. To avoid such delays, coordinate with other users, and access your Company File when other users are not active.

How do I switch to multi-monitor mode in QuickBooks?

To switch to the multi-monitor mode in QuickBooks, you should click on View menu present in the upper left corner. From the drop-down menu, select the option Switch to Multi-monitor Mode. Set up the monitors side by side, as explained on your screen, and then click on Proceed. This feature enables the user to view multiple reports at the same time. It is to note that, a minimum of 3 monitors are required to switch to multi-monitor mode in QuickBooks.