How to Fix QuickBooks Server Busy Error?

Thomson
2 min readAug 10, 2023

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QuickBooks users can end up with the server busy error when accessing the company files in the multi user mode. Many different causes might contribute to this error code. However, the most common cause involves corruption in the system files or QuickBooks files. This article will cover all the facades of QuickBooks Server Busy Error, including the causes and the troubleshooting methods.

This error message may appear with a message like “This action cannot be completed because the other program is busy. Choose ‘Switch To’ to activate the busy program and correct the problem.”

Possible Reasons that cause QuickBooks Desktop Server Busy Error

  • Conflicting applications may be hindering functionalities of QuickBooks, including the connection of the accounting program with the server.
  • Some security tools, such as Windows Defender, Vista Security, Spy Sweeper, or Pivot Software Control, etc can potentially lead to Fix Error: Server Busy. This action cannot be completed because the other program is busy.
  • QuickBooks may be out to date.

Methods for Troubleshooting QuickBooks Server Busy Error

To resolve the QuickBooks Server Busy Error, you can try the following solutions:

Method 1: Terminate any Open Programs

  • Shut down any background-running processes in order to keep the QuickBooks application operational. Users should also shut down QuickBooks and then reopen it.
  • The firewall and antivirus settings need to be adjusted to ensure a seamless connection of QuickBooks with the server.
  • Users should temporarily turn of security programs like Windows Defender, Firewall, including any antivirus programs.
  • After turning off these programs, run QuickBooks again in the multi-user mode and access the company files.

Method 2: In the QuickBooks Tool Hub use Quick Fix my Program

  • Download QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit.
  • Run the downloaded file to install the tool hub.
  • After that, open the tool hub, and visit the Program Issues option.
  • Now, head to the Quick Fix my Program, and wait for the scan to be finished.
  • Run QuickBooks Desktop and opt for the multi-user option.
  • Now, try accessing the company file.

Method 3: Check for Latest Windows Update

  • Hit on the Search tab and type update.
  • Open the Windows update window.
  • Herein, click on search for updates option.
  • Choose all the essential updates and download them.
  • Restart the computer and let the updates install automatically.
  • Open QuickBooks and then open the Company file.

Method 4: Repair QuickBooks

  • Press the Windows button on the keyboard and open the Control Panel.
  • Now, head to Programs and Features.
  • From the list of apps, choose QuickBooks, and then hit on Uninstall/Change button.
  • Next, choose Continue and then click on Repair.
  • Now, hit on Next.
  • After that, click on Finish.
  • The final step is to restart the PC and open QuickBooks in the multi-user mode.
  • By now, QuickBooks Server Busy Error should be fixed.

Conclusion

By the end of this blog we hope that the variegated methods helped users fix Server Busy Error in QuickBooks desktop. For more guidance, users can contact our QuickBooks Error Support ProAdvisors at the helpline 1–800–761–1787.

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