QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 on Windows 11: How to Fix It

eli matthews
5 min readSep 10, 2024

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QuickBooks is a widely-used accounting software that helps businesses manage their finances effectively. However, like any other software, QuickBooks users sometimes encounter errors that disrupt their workflow. One common issue is “QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 Windows 11". This error typically happens when a user tries to access the company file but is unable to do so due to issues related to the file or network setup.

In this blog, we will explore what causes QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816, how it affects your workflow, and the step-by-step solutions to resolve it on Windows 11.

Read more: quickbooks error 1712

What is QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816?

QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 generally occurs when multiple users attempt to access the company file in single-user mode. It can also occur if there is a mismatch between the transaction log file (.tlg) and the company file (.qbw). This error is usually accompanied by a message that reads:

“QuickBooks is unable to open this company file on the hosted computer.”

This issue is particularly frustrating because it prevents access to the company file, which could delay essential financial operations. Error 6190 and 816 are most often seen in networked environments where multiple users attempt to access the same file simultaneously.

Common Causes of QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 on Windows 11

There are several reasons why QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 might appear, especially on a Windows 11 system. Understanding these causes is key to resolving the issue:

1. Single-User Mode

If the company file is being accessed in single-user mode, other users attempting to access the file will encounter Error 6190 and 816.

2. Mismatch Between .tlg and .qbw Files

The transaction log file (.tlg) and the QuickBooks company file (.qbw) must be synchronized. If there is a mismatch or corruption in these files, QuickBooks will throw this error.

3. Data Corruption

Corruption in the company file can prevent QuickBooks from opening it. This may result from improper shutdowns, viruses, or software glitches.

4. Network or Connectivity Issues

If QuickBooks cannot establish a proper connection to the server where the company file is stored, you may encounter Error 6190 and 816. This is often related to firewall settings or unstable network connections.

5. Damaged QuickBooks Installation

If your QuickBooks installation is corrupted or damaged, it may prevent access to company files and result in Error 6190 and 816.

How to Resolve QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 on Windows 11

To resolve QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 on Windows 11, follow these troubleshooting steps. Ensure you try each solution methodically, as this will help you identify and fix the underlying problem.

Solution 1: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

The QuickBooks File Doctor is an essential tool provided by Intuit to fix company file and network issues, including Error 6190 and 816.

Steps:

  1. Download and Install the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Open the QuickBooks Tool Hub and select the Company File Issues tab.
  3. Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
  4. Choose your company file from the list and select Check your file.
  5. Click Continue and enter your QuickBooks Admin Password.
  6. Allow the tool to scan and repair the company file. Once complete, restart QuickBooks and check if the error is resolved.

Solution 2: Rename the .TLG and .ND Files

If the .tlg (transaction log) and .nd (network descriptor) files are corrupted, renaming them can resolve QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 without affecting your financial data.

Steps:

  1. Close QuickBooks and navigate to the folder where your company file is stored.
  2. Locate the files with the same name as your company file but with the extensions .tlg and .nd. For example: companyname.qbw.tlg and companyname.qbw.nd.
  3. Right-click each file and select Rename.
  4. Add .old to the end of each file’s name. For example, rename them as companyname.qbw.tlg.old and companyname.qbw.nd.old.
  5. Reopen QuickBooks and try accessing the company file.

Solution 3: Ensure All Users are Logged Out

Another possible cause of QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 is that multiple users are attempting to access the company file while it is in single-user mode. You need to make sure that all users are logged out of QuickBooks.

Steps:

  1. Log out of QuickBooks on all workstations.
  2. Restart the server computer that hosts the company file.
  3. On the server, open QuickBooks in multi-user mode.
  4. Now, try accessing the company file from a different workstation.

Solution 4: Update QuickBooks

Using an outdated version of QuickBooks can lead to various errors, including Error 6190 and 816. Ensure that your QuickBooks software is up to date.

Steps:

  1. Open QuickBooks and go to the Help menu.
  2. Select Update QuickBooks Desktop.
  3. In the Update Now tab, click Get Updates.
  4. Once the updates are downloaded, restart QuickBooks.
  5. Try accessing the company file after the update.

Find out more: Quickbooks error 6123 windows 11

Solution 5: Verify File Hosting Settings

Misconfigured hosting settings on the server can cause QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816. Ensure that the hosting is enabled only on the server.

Steps:

  1. On the server, open QuickBooks and go to the File menu.
  2. Select Utilities.
  3. If Host Multi-User Access is displayed, select it.
  4. On all workstations, go to File > Utilities and ensure that Host Multi-User Access is turned off.

Solution 6: Repair QuickBooks Installation

If the QuickBooks installation on Windows 11 is damaged, repairing the software may resolve Error 6190 and 816.

Steps:

  1. Open the Control Panel and go to Programs and Features.
  2. Find QuickBooks in the list of programs and select Uninstall/Change.
  3. Choose the Repair option and follow the on-screen instructions to repair the installation.
  4. After the repair is complete, restart your computer and try accessing the company file.

Preventing QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816

To minimize the chances of encountering QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 on Windows 11, follow these best practices:

1. Regularly Update QuickBooks

Always keep your QuickBooks software up to date to ensure compatibility with your system and prevent errors.

2. Create Backup Files Regularly

Backing up your company files regularly ensures that you have a copy to restore in case of file corruption or damage.

3. Check Hosting Settings

Ensure that the hosting settings are correctly configured on the server to prevent multi-user mode access issues.

4. Maintain Network Health

Keep your network setup stable and ensure that all computers are properly

connected to the server hosting the QuickBooks company file. Check for network disruptions regularly and maintain proper firewall configurations to avoid connection issues.

Check out more: quickbooks cloud hosting services

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 on Windows 11 can disrupt your workflow, but with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the issue quickly. Whether the problem lies with mismatched files, network connectivity, or outdated software, solutions like using the QuickBooks File Doctor, renaming .TLG and .ND files, or updating QuickBooks can help fix the error.

If you’re still unable to resolve QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816, or if you require expert assistance, feel free to contact our QuickBooks support team at +1–888–538–1314.

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