Although QuickBooks is a strong accounting tool, errors can occasionally occur with any software. One common issue users face is QuickBooks Error 6073, which occurs when trying to open a company file in multi-user mode. This error usually means the file is already open on another device or there are permission conflicts. In this guide, we’ll explore the causes of QuickBooks Error 6073 and walk through step-by-step solutions to fix it.
Understanding QuickBooks Error 6073: What It Means and Why It Happens
QuickBooks Error 6073 is a company file access issue that typically appears when trying to open a file in multi-user mode. This error prevents users from accessing their QuickBooks company file, often displaying a message that says, “QuickBooks is unable to open this company file. Another user may have opened it.”
This error usually occurs due to file permission conflicts, remote access issues, or incorrect security settings. It can disrupt business operations by preventing access to important financial records, so it is essential to resolve it quickly.
Why Does QuickBooks Error 6073 Occur?
Several factors can trigger this error, including:
- File Already Open in Single-User Mode
- If the company file is open on another computer in single-user mode, QuickBooks won’t allow additional users to access it.
- Company File Stored in a Read-Only Network Folder
- If the QuickBooks file is saved in a folder with read-only permissions, it prevents multiple users from accessing or modifying it.
- Remote Desktop Session is Still Active
- If a user is logged in remotely to the host computer, it can create a conflict when another user tries to access the company file locally.
- Multiple Users Logged in on the Host Computer
- If different users are accessing the same QuickBooks file at the same time, session conflicts may trigger this error.
- Security Software or Firewall Blocking Access
- Some antivirus programs, firewall settings, or network configurations may restrict QuickBooks from accessing the file, leading to Error 6073.
- Corrupt or Damaged QuickBooks Company File
- If the company file itself is damaged, QuickBooks may fail to open it and display Error 6073.
Key Takeaway: QuickBooks Error 6073 occurs when file access restrictions, user conflicts, or security settings prevent the software from opening the company file. The first step to a quick repair is identifying the root cause.
Common Causes of QuickBooks Error 6073
To fix this issue, it’s important to understand the possible reasons behind it:
- On another computer, the company file is open in single-user mode.
- A different user is logged into the host computer remotely, causing a conflict.
- Corrupt or damaged QuickBooks files are preventing access.
- Folder permissions are incorrectly set, restricting access.
- Antivirus or firewall settings are blocking QuickBooks.
Key Takeaway: QuickBooks Error 6073 is often caused by file access restrictions, user conflicts, security settings, or file corruption. Applying the appropriate remedy requires determining the underlying cause.
Quick Fixes: How to Resolve QuickBooks Error 6073 Step by Step
If you’re encountering QuickBooks Error 6073, it can often be resolved by addressing file access issues or adjusting user settings. Try these quick fixes:
- Switch QuickBooks to Multi-User Mode
- On the computer where the file is open, go to QuickBooks.
- Click File > Switch to Multi-User Mode and close QuickBooks.
- Try opening the company file on your computer.
- Close Remote Desktop Session on the Host Computer
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on the host computer to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Users tab and check for active remote sessions.
- Ask the remote user to log out completely, then restart QuickBooks.
- Change Folder Permissions from Read-Only
- Find the folder containing the QuickBooks business file.
- To access the Security tab, r
- ight-click the folder, choose Properties, and then pick Security.
- Click Edit, select Users, and ensure they have Full Control.
- Click Apply and OK, then restart QuickBooks.
- Use QuickBooks File Doctor to Repair File Issues
- Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub from the Intuit website.
- Open Tool Hub, go to Company File Issues and click Run QuickBooks, File Doctor.
- Select the company file and follow the prompts to repair it.
- Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager
- Open QuickBooks Tool Hub, go to Network Issues and select QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
- Scan the folder where your QuickBooks company file is stored.
- Restart QuickBooks and try opening the file.
- Temporarily Disable Security Software or Firewall
- Open your antivirus or firewall settings.
- Temporarily disable protection and try opening QuickBooks.
- If the error disappears, add QuickBooks as an exception in your security settings.
Key Takeaway: QuickBooks Error 6073 is often caused by file access restrictions, remote user conflicts, or security settings. Switching to Multi-User Mode, checking remote sessions, adjusting folder permissions, or using QuickBooks File Doctor can quickly resolve the issue. If the problem persists, advanced troubleshooting may be necessary.
Advanced Troubleshooting: Fixing Persistent QuickBooks Error 6073
If the above methods don’t resolve the issue, try these advanced fixes:
Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager
- Open QuickBooks Tool Hub and go to Network Issues.
- Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager and scan your company file.
- Check to see if the error has been fixed after restarting QuickBooks.
Manually End QuickBooks Processes
- Ctrl + Shift + Esc can be used to launch Task Manager.
- Look for QuickBooks-related processes (QBDBMgrN.exe, QBW32.exe).
- Right-click each process and select End Task.
- Restart QuickBooks and open the company file.
Disable Antivirus/Firewall Temporarily
- Open your antivirus or firewall settings.
- Temporarily disable protection.
- Try opening QuickBooks again.
- If the issue is resolved, add QuickBooks as an exception in the security settings.
Preventing QuickBooks Error 6073 in the Future
QuickBooks Error 6073 can disrupt work and prevent access to crucial financial data. Use these best practices for keeping a stable and error-free QuickBooks environment to prevent running into this problem again.
- Proper Multi-User Setup
- Ensure all users understand the difference between Single-User Mode and Multi-User Mode.
- Always switch to Multi-User Mode before closing QuickBooks when multiple users need access.
- Assign users the appropriate roles and rights to prevent disputes with unauthorized access.
- Close QuickBooks Properly
- Before shutting down a computer, close QuickBooks completely to avoid session conflicts.
- If using Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), always log out fully instead of just disconnecting.
- Avoid leaving the company file open on multiple computers when not in use.
- Store QuickBooks Files in a Properly Configured Network Folder
- Ensure the company file is saved in a folder with full read and write access for all authorized users.
- Avoid storing the file in read-only or restricted-access folders.
- Regularly review and update folder permissions to prevent accidental access restrictions.
- Keep QuickBooks and Windows Updated
- Install the latest QuickBooks updates and patches to fix known bugs and security issues.
- Keep Windows and network drivers updated to maintain compatibility with QuickBooks.
- Enable automatic updates in QuickBooks to ensure you’re always using the latest version.
- Perform Regular Maintenance on QuickBooks Files
- Run QuickBooks File Doctor periodically to detect and fix file issues before they cause errors.
- Use the Verify and Rebuild Data tool in QuickBooks to identify and correct data corruption.
- Create frequent backups of your company files to prevent data loss in case of corruption.
- Optimize Firewall and Security Software Settings
- Set up your firewall and antivirus program so that QuickBooks can operate without any limitations.
- Add QuickBooks and its processes (QBDBMgrN.exe, QBW32.exe) to the list of allowed applications.
- If QuickBooks is frequently blocked, consider setting up custom firewall rules to prevent future disruptions.
Key Takeaway: Preventing QuickBooks Error 6073 requires proper user practices, file management, software updates, and security configurations. By following these steps, you can reduce access conflicts, prevent data corruption, and ensure the smooth operation of QuickBooks in a multi-user environment.
FAQs
Can I fix QuickBooks Error 6073 without QuickBooks Tool Hub?
Yes, you can try switching to multi-user mode, closing remote sessions, or adjusting folder permissions manually.
Does QuickBooks File Doctor always fix Error 6073?
Not always, but it’s a great first step. If the error persists, try advanced troubleshooting methods.
How do I know if another user is logged into QuickBooks remotely?
Check Task Manager > Users on the host computer to see if another user is active.
Can a firewall cause QuickBooks Error 6073?
Yes, if QuickBooks isn’t listed as an exception in your firewall settings, it may block file access.
Should I contact QuickBooks support if none of the fixes work?
After attempting every fix, if the error still occurs, get in touch with QuickBooks Support for more help.
Additional Resources:
- QuickBooks File Doctor Tool – Download Here
- QuickBooks Multi-User Setup Guide – Learn More
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error 6073 can be frustrating, but with the right troubleshooting steps, it can be resolved quickly. Start with basic fixes like switching to multi-user mode and using QuickBooks File Doctor. Try more complex fixes like resetting security settings or restarting the database server if the problem continues. By taking these actions and putting preventative measures in place, you can maintain error-free, seamless QuickBooks operations.