How to Fix Error 6189, 816 and 6190, 816 in QuickBooks?

5 min readJul 31, 2024

QuickBooks is a comprehensive accounting software widely used by businesses of all sizes. Despite its robustness, users may occasionally encounter errors that disrupt their workflow. Two common errors that users face are Error 6189, 816, and Error 6190, 816. These errors typically occur when accessing a company file and are often related to issues with the multi-user mode or problems with the company file itself.

To help you fix this problem, we have some resources in this article. But if you need expert help, you can contact us anytime. We have a team of QuickBooks experts who are available 24/7 to assist you. Just call our support line at +1(844)-871–1393.

Understanding Error 6189, 816 and 6190, 816

What is Error 6189, 816?

Error 6189, 816 is a runtime error that occurs when QuickBooks is unable to access the company file. This error can be caused by several factors, including:

A mismatch between the transaction log file (.TLG) and the company file (.QBW).
Issues with the multi-user setup.
Problems with the QuickBooks installation.

What is Error 6190, 816?

Error 6190, 816 is similar to Error 6189, 816 and also occurs when QuickBooks cannot access the company file. The common causes of this error include:

A mismatch between the .TLG file and the .QBW file.
Another user being logged into QuickBooks in single-user mode.
Data corruption in the company file.

Steps to Fix Error 6189, 816 and 6190, 816

Step 1: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub

QuickBooks Tool Hub is a versatile tool designed to fix common issues and errors in QuickBooks. Here’s how to use it:

Download QuickBooks Tool Hub:

Go to the official Intuit website and download the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Follow the on-screen instructions to install it.

Run QuickBooks File Doctor:

Open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Select the Company File Issues tab.
Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
Browse and select your company file.
Enter your QuickBooks admin password when prompted.
Click Next and let the tool diagnose and fix the errors.

Step 2: Check and Rename the .TLG and .ND Files

Renaming the .TLG and .ND files can resolve issues caused by file corruption or conflicts.

Locate the Files:

Open the folder containing your QuickBooks company file.
Look for files with the same name as your company file but with .TLG and .ND extensions.

Rename the Files:

Right-click on the .TLG file and select Rename.
Add “.OLD” at the end of the file name (e.g., CompanyName.TLG.OLD).
Repeat the process for the .ND file.

Open QuickBooks and the Company File:

Open QuickBooks Desktop.
Try to access your company file to check if the error is resolved.

Step 3: Ensure QuickBooks is Updated

Using an outdated version of QuickBooks can lead to various errors. Ensure your QuickBooks is updated to the latest release.

Update QuickBooks:

Open QuickBooks Desktop.
Go to the Help menu.
Select Update QuickBooks Desktop.
Click on the Update Now tab.
Select Get Updates.
Restart QuickBooks after the updates are installed.

Step 4: Verify and Rebuild Data

Verifying and rebuilding data can fix data integrity issues within your company file.

Verify Data:

Open QuickBooks Desktop.
Go to the File menu.
Select Utilities and then Verify Data.
Follow the on-screen instructions.

Rebuild Data:

If QuickBooks finds issues with your data, proceed to rebuild it.
Go to the File menu.
Select Utilities and then Rebuild Data.
Follow the on-screen instructions and make a backup of your company file when prompted.

Step 5: Check Multi-User Setup

Errors 6189, 816, and 6190, 816 can occur due to issues with the multi-user setup. Ensure that your setup is configured correctly.

Check Hosting Settings:

Open QuickBooks on the server computer.
Go to the File menu.
Select Utilities.
Ensure that Host Multi-User Access is selected.

Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager:

Open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Select the Network Issues tab.
Click on QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Scan the folder containing your company file.
Restart your server computer.

Also read: Common Issues Resolved Using QuickBooks Tool Hub (Like Error 6123 or H202)

FAQ Section

Q1: What causes Error 6189, 816 in QuickBooks?

Ans: Error 6189, 816 is typically caused by a mismatch between the .TLG and .QBW files, issues with the multi-user setup, or problems with the QuickBooks installation.

Q2: How can I prevent Error 6190, 816 from occurring?

Ans: To prevent Error 6190, 816:

Ensure that all users log out of QuickBooks properly.
Keep QuickBooks updated to the latest version.
Regularly verify and rebuild your company file data.
Ensure that your multi-user setup is configured correctly.

Q3: What should I do if the QuickBooks File Doctor does not fix the error?

Ans: If QuickBooks File Doctor does not fix the error:

Rename the .TLG and .ND files as described in Step 2.
Verify and rebuild your company file data.
Check your multi-user setup and ensure that the hosting settings are correct.
Contact QuickBooks support for further assistance.

Q4: Can I fix these errors without using QuickBooks Tool Hub?

Ans: While QuickBooks Tool Hub is a convenient tool for fixing many errors, you can also manually rename the .TLG and .ND files, verify and rebuild your data, and check your multi-user setup as alternative solutions.

Q5: Is it safe to rename the .TLG and .ND files?

Ans: Yes, it is safe to rename the .TLG and .ND files. QuickBooks will recreate these files the next time you open your company file. Renaming them helps resolve issues caused by file corruption or conflicts.

Q6: How often should I update QuickBooks Desktop?

Ans: It is recommended to check for updates regularly and install them as they become available. Updates often include important fixes and improvements that can help prevent errors.

Q7: What is the role of the QuickBooks Database Server Manager?

Ans: The QuickBooks Database Server Manager allows QuickBooks to run in multi-user mode by managing access to the company file on the server. It is essential for ensuring that multiple users can access the file simultaneously without conflicts.

Q8: Can data corruption cause Error 6189, 816 and 6190, 816?

Ans: Yes, data corruption in the company file can cause these errors. Regularly verifying and rebuilding your data can help identify and fix data integrity issues.

Q9: What should I do if I encounter these errors while working on a network?

Ans: If you encounter these errors while working on a network:

Ensure that the network connection is stable.
Check that the server hosting the company file is running and accessible.
Verify that QuickBooks Database Server Manager is properly configured on the server.

Q10: Where can I find more information on fixing QuickBooks errors?

Ans: For more information on fixing QuickBooks errors, visit the QuickBooks Help Center, explore the QuickBooks Community, or contact QuickBooks support directly for personalized assistance.

Conclusion

Error 6189, 816, and Error 6190, 816 in QuickBooks can be frustrating, but with the right approach, they can be resolved efficiently. By following the steps outlined in this guide and utilizing the resources provided, you can fix these errors and get back to managing your business with minimal disruption. If you continue to experience issues, do not hesitate to reach out to QuickBooks support for further assistance.