Troubleshooting Manual For Fixing QuickBooks
Multi-User Mode Not Working
Multi-user mode in QuickBooks lets many people work on the same company file. This
feature helps you manage your financial work more efficiently by enabling a collaborative
environment. But, you may also face the issue of QuickBooks multi-user mode not
working which prevents the access of files in multi-user setup. Problems with
firewall/antivirus settings, not installing QuickBooks on the server, incorrect hosting
settings, or wrong user permissions can cause this issue. In this blog, we will discuss how to
fix multi-user mode errors in QuickBooks.
Reasons For Multi-User Mode Not Working Issue
Here are the reasons why multi-user mode is not working properly on your
system.
 If you don’t install QuickBooks on the server, it can cause problems when
you try to use the program in multi-user mode.
 Another potential issue is if the hosting settings aren’t configured properly.
This can prevent users from opening the company files when working
together.
 Your firewall or antivirus software could also be the reason. Multi-user mode
won’t work right if they’re not set up correctly.
 Sometimes, the database server itself is the source of the problem. If it
glitches or malfunctions, it can block file access.
 When the Windows file permissions aren’t set up correctly, it can disrupt the
multi-user mode and lead to errors.
Solutions to Fix the Multi-User Mode Not Working Issue
Multi-user errors can appear with different error codes, such as QuickBooks Error
Code 6189 and 816, and affect the workflow. Implement the below solutions to
instantly get rid of multi-user mode issues.
Solution 1: Install QuickBooks Database Server Manager
Before starting, ensure you have the installation file ready.
 Close QuickBooks if it’s open.
 Open the downloaded setup file (Setup_QuickBooks.exe).
 Follow the on-screen instructions.
 Have your product or license numbers handy.
 Choose your installation type: “Custom” or “Network Options.” Avoid
selecting “Express,” as it will overwrite your existing QuickBooks Desktop
version.
 Select the appropriate option:
 If you want to use QuickBooks Desktop and store your company file on the
server, choose “I’ll be using QuickBooks Desktop on this computer,
AND I’ll be keeping our company file here for network sharing.”
 If you only need the Database Server Manager, select “I will NOT be using
QuickBooks Desktop on this computer.”
 Follow the remaining on-screen instructions and click “Install” when ready.
 QuickBooks will set up a new Windows user account for each version of the
Database Server Manager, such as QBDataServiceUser33 for Database Server
Manager 2023. Ensure this user has access to the folders with your company
files.
Solution 2: Enable hosting on the server computer
 Open QuickBooks.
 Navigate to the File menu.
 Hover over Utilities.
 Select Host Multi-User Access.
 Click Yes.
Additional Notes:
 Provide Windows admin rights and folder permissions.
 Adjust your firewall settings to prevent issues with multi-user mode in
QuickBooks.
Conclusion
Hopefully, you have resolved the issue of QuickBooks multi-user mode not
working successfully with the help of this guide.