How to Fix QuickBooks Error -6010, -100 While Opening a Company File?

QuickBooks Error Code 6010, 100 occurs when the accounting software fails to access a company file in a multi-user environment due to misconfigured network settings, damaged configuration files, or firewall restrictions. This issue is part of the 6000-series errors and typically arises when QuickBooks Database Server Manager cannot communicate with the host system. Users commonly encounter this error message while opening a company file (.QBW) after installation changes, network interruptions, or antivirus interference.

This article defines QuickBooks Error 6010, 100, explains its main causes, and describes how it affects the system. It also provides clear, step-by-step solutions such as adjusting firewall settings, correcting host configurations, using the File Doctor tool, and reinstalling the database server. Following these steps helps restore multi-user access and prevent the error from recurring.

What is error code 6010 100 in QuickBooks & how does it look when it occurs?

QuickBooks Error Code 6010, 100 is a system-generated issue that appears when the software fails to open a company file in a multi-user environment. It generally indicates that the QuickBooks Database Server Manager cannot communicate with the host system due to incorrect hosting configuration, firewall restrictions, or antivirus interference. The error can also appear after reinstalling QuickBooks Desktop or modifying its installation files.

When this issue occurs, the following error message shows on the screen:

“An error occurred. Your QuickBooks installation may have been modified. Reinstall QuickBooks and then try again. If the problem persists, contact Intuit Technical Support and provide them with the following error codes: (-6010, -100).”

Possible Reasons Behind the QuickBooks Error Code 6010, 100

QuickBooks Error Code 6010, 100 usually occurs when the software fails to access company files due to blocked connections, incorrect hosting setup, or damaged network data files. The key causes are listed below:

• The company file is hosted on a computer that is not designated as the server.
• An incorrectly configured firewall or antivirus program prevents QuickBooks from connecting to the network.
• The user attempts to access company files from multiple workstations using single-user administrative rights.
• The company file is hosted in a non-server or single-user mode environment.
• QuickBooks Network Data (.ND) files are damaged or disconnected from their corresponding company files (.QBW), causing access errors in multi-user mode.
• An invalid or incomplete network setup leads to the QuickBooks multi-user mode error 6010, 100.
• Using an incorrect method to open a company file or accessing a corrupted data folder results in file access failure.
• Incorrect file extensions or misplaced company file locations prevent opening the file in a multi-user environment.
• System crashes, power interruptions, or malware infections disrupt the connection to company files.
• QuickBooks Desktop is incompletely or improperly installed on the system.

How to Recognize the Impact of QuickBooks Error 6010 100?

QuickBooks Error Code 6010, 100 affects both software performance and overall system stability. Recognizing its symptoms early helps prevent data loss and extended downtime. When this error occurs, users often experience access issues, system instability, and repeated crashes while working in a multi-user setup.

• The error prompt displays on the screen when opening QuickBooks.
• The company file cannot be accessed in a multi-user environment.
• Only the admin can open the company file from the host system.
• QuickBooks frequently crashes or fails to launch.
• Data damage or loss occurs unexpectedly.
• The system becomes unresponsive or freezes during operation.

Troubleshooting Methods to Fix QuickBooks Error Code -6010, -100

QuickBooks Error Code 6010, 100 can disrupt access to company files and prevent users from working in a multi-user environment. To restore normal functionality, it is important to identify the cause and apply the correct troubleshooting method. The following solutions provide step-by-step instructions to help you fix the error and ensure smooth QuickBooks operations.

Solutions Part 1

Before moving further with the troubleshooting steps, here’s a list of some prerequisite actions you need to take to ensure every instruction must be followed:

1. Disable the Firewall or antivirus programs temporarily in case any one of them is preventing your software from connecting to the network.
2. Your company file can only be hosted from a server computer, so ensure you’ve all the administrative rights to host the company file on a multi-user network. 
3. Check that the company file you’re trying to access isn’t open on another workstation. If it is, stop hosting multi-user access. 
4. Make sure everyone is signed out at the time when you share your company file in a multi-user environment.
5. Multiple users are not trying to access the same company file at the same time. If this happens, it may create corruption in your company file and damage your essential data. 
6. The .ND file you’ve created is properly hosted on your workstation as it helps you access multiple versions of QuickBooks in multi-user mode. 
7. You are recommended to create the company file backup before moving or accessing it from a different server to prevent any data loss. 
8. Ensure that the QuickBooks version you’re using is updated to the latest release and the installation is proper or complete. 

Solution Part 2

Even after trying all the precautionary steps mentioned above, if the QuickBooks Error 6010 100 still persists, perform the following steps in a given sequence to get your problem resolved at once. Let’s get started:

Method 1: Configure firewall settings to give access to QuickBooks

If Windows Firewall Settings are not configured properly, it can hamper every single operation running in your system and interrupt QuickBooks to connect to the multi-user network. Implement the following steps to fix this error: 

Step 1: Add Firewall port exception for QuickBooks

Follow the steps below for each QuickBooks Desktop version if you’re using multiple versions on the same computer. 

1. Navigate to the Windows Start menu.
2. Now, write down Windows Firewall in the search bar and then hover over Windows Firewall Settings.
3. Choose Firewall Advanced options from the left sidebar.
4. After this, you get the inbound and outbound rules under Advanced Settings

5. Hit right-click on Inbound Rules and then select the New Rule option.

6. In the New Rule window, click on Port and later press Next.
7. Next, be sure that TCP is selected.
8. Under the Specific local ports field, type the Specific ports required for the QB year version you are currently using:
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2020 and later: 8019, XXXXX.
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2019: 8019, XXXXX.
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2018: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382.
   • QuickBooks Desktop 2017: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377.

QuickBooks Desktop 2021, 2022, and later versions use dynamic ports. Here’s how to get a dynamic port number:

1. Once you enter the port number, press Next.
2. Choose Allow the Connection and hit the Next tab.
3. If you’re prompted, make sure all profiles are marked. Click Next again.
4. Create a rule and name it “QBPorts(year).”
5. After this, select Finish.
6. Re-perform the same steps to create outbound rules.

Step 2: Create Windows firewall exceptions for QuickBooks programs

QuickBooks uses executable files (.exe) to perform various tasks. To create exceptions for each executable on the table, adhere to the following steps:

1. Navigate to the Windows Start menu, enter Windows Firewall into the search box, and open Windows Firewall.
2. Select Advanced Settings.
3. Hit right-click on Inbound Rules and hit the New Rule tab.
4. Choose Program and then press Next.
5. Afterward, choose This Program Path and click on Browse.
6. Locate and select any one executable file from the table listed below. Then, hit the Next tab.
7. Moving ahead, select the option Allow the Connection and then click Next.
8. If prompted, you need to verify that all profiles are marked. Later on, press the Next button.
9. Create a rule and name it “QBFirewallException(name.exe).”
10. And lastly, re-implement the same steps to create outbound rules.

Here’s a list of some executable files, along with their locations: 

When you’re ready, open QuickBooks Desktop and try to access your company file in the Multi-user environment.

Method 2: Switch from multi-user mode to single-user mode

To switch from multi-user mode to single-user mode, adhere to the following steps:

1. Firstly, open QuickBooks and then navigate to the File menu. 
2. Select Switch to Single-user Mode/Switch to Multi-user Mode.

3. After this, a warning prompt will appear on your screen, asking you to confirm you want to switch to multi-user mode. Press OK.
4. Then, QuickBooks will close the company file and reopen it in the Multi-user network.
5. Now, you’re good to go. 

Method 3: Turn off hosting on your workstations

You need to disable Host Multi-User Access on your workstations if you host your company file on a multi-user network, as only the server computer should host the file with administrative rights. Go through the following steps for the same:

1. Firstly, open QuickBooks on your workstations or servers.
2. Head to the File menu and then click on Utilities.
   • Avoid selecting the Host Multi-User Access option if you see this; move to the next workstation. This one isn’t the problem.
   • If you are notified with the Stop Hosting Multi-User Access option, click on it.

3. After this, restart your system and reopen QuickBooks software.
4. Once done, choose the Programs settings and turn off the internet monitor feature.
5. If your computer has an ESET NOD32 antivirus application, you’ll have to give a new name to the file by adding .Old at the end of the extension.
6. Finally, launch the QuickBooks program once again and check for the error status. 

Method 4: Rename the .ND files to resolve network issues

.ND is the configuration file that allows QuickBooks Desktop to access/open the company file in a network or multi-user environment. When there’s an issue with your network data files or extensions, you won’t be able to open it in multi-user mode. To get access to a multi-user environment, change the name of the .ND files. 

Method 5: Use the QuickBooks Database Server Manager 

The QuickBooks database server manager creates Network Data Files (.ND Files) stored in the Host workstation, which helps you access multiple versions of QuickBooks Desktop in multi-user mode. If such network files get disconnected from your workstation, you won’t be able to open them on multiple workstations and end up with QuickBooks error 6010 100. To troubleshoot this, you need to download and run the QB database server manager on your system. 

Method 6: Run QuickBooks File Doctor From QuickBooks Tool Hub

QuickBooks File Doctor Tool is a file-repairing tool used to resolve common QuickBooks company File errors such as data damage, connection errors, Windows problems, update errors, and network-related issues. By running this tool, you can fix all of them. Here’s how.

First of all, the QuickBooks File Doctor tool will scan the company file and network to identify issues or errors related to network connectivity, data corruption, or other file-related issues. After completing the scanning process, QuickBooks File Doctor will pinpoint the specific issues found within the company file. Later, it will categorize the identified issues and determine the appropriate steps needed to resolve them, depending upon the nature of the problem.

Secondly, QuickBooks File Doctor will attempt to fix the issues automatically, which involves repairing network-related problems, rebuilding corrupted data, and addressing other errors that may hinder the proper functioning of your QuickBooks software.

Thirdly, once the repair process is done, the QuickBooks File Doctor will provide you with a detailed report that outlines the problems found in your software and whether they were successfully resolved. This generated report will help you understand the issues and the actions taken by the tool.

Method 7: Re-Pairing the Company File 

It may be possible that the issue lies with your company file. Therefore, you need to re-pair your company file and then try to open it. Let’s continue with the following steps:

1. Browse the folder that holds your company file. 
2. Now, search and locate the file having .QBW extension. 
3. Hit right-click on your company file and then choose the Copy option. 
4. After this, select Paste and then press the Ctrl key to open the QuickBooks Desktop application. 
5. Here, you’ll be directed to the No Company Open window, where click on Open or Restore an existing company.

6. Once done, choose the company file you copied to your desktop and click Open. 

Method 8: Backup and Restore your company file

Backing up your company files at regular intervals is important, especially if you need to move or access your data from a different workstation. There are two ways to Create a company file backup in QuickBooks, manually or automatically. You can try any one according to your requirements. 

To prevent sudden data loss, reinstallation errors, power outages, malware, or virus attacks, you are always recommended to Restore your company file Backup. This process allows you to go back to your company file, even if it is damaged, missing, or corrupted, and also helps you to tackle QuickBooks multi-user mode error 6010 100.

Method 9: Close the QuickBooks Processes

End all the QB Processes and switch to multi-user mode is the best way to resolve this error code. Below are the steps to be followed: 

1. Login to PC using correct admin credentials.
2. Hold and press  Ctrl + Shift +Esc keys on your keyboard to open the Task Manager.

3. Select Users. 
4. Mark all the QuickBooks-related processes such as- qbupdate.exe, qbw32.exe, and qbdbmgrn.exe. 
5. Hit right-click and then select the End Task option in multi-user mode. 
6. Now, access the QuickBooks company file and check for the error status.

Method 10: Reinstall QuickBooks Software 

Sometimes, you won’t be able to access your company file in multi-user mode due to company file issues, networking errors, installation issues, QuickBooks keeps crashing, etc. To fix this, you are required to Reinstall QuickBooks Desktop manually in your system; if there’s any issue with the software you’re working on, it can easily be resolved by doing this.

Customized Solution for QuickBooks Error 6010 100

• To resolve QuickBooks Error 6010 100, you first have to disable QuickBooks background processes from your workstation. After that, you need to ensure that your workstation is in single-user mode and the workstation should not be used as a server.
• After this, the main (actual) server, where the company file is hosted, should be accessible over the network. First, you should check whether your workstation can access the company file on the server via the network.
  • For this, you need to ensure your workstation has complete internet access with a wired or wireless network. 
  • And if the issue lies with your network, reach out to your IT expert for help. 
• Now log in to the company file through your workstation as an administrator credential or administrative rights. 
• After successfully logging in, run the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool. It will take a few minutes to diagnose and fix your problem. After the process is complete, check if the error is resolved or still pending. 
• If the error still persists, then it is recommended that you follow the steps below in the given order.

Best Practices to Prevent QuickBooks Error 6010, 100

QuickBooks Error 6010, 100 often results from network conflicts, damaged files, or improper system configurations. Preventing this error requires regular maintenance and proper configuration of both the QuickBooks software and the network environment.

• Keep QuickBooks Updated: Always install the latest QuickBooks Desktop and Database Server Manager updates to ensure compatibility with your network and operating system.
• Set Up Hosting Properly: Host your company file only on the designated server computer and avoid enabling hosting on individual workstations.
• Configure Firewall and Antivirus Settings: Add QuickBooks and its associated services as exceptions in your firewall and antivirus programs to prevent connection blocks.
• Maintain Regular Backups: Schedule automatic backups of your company files to avoid data loss or corruption due to sudden system failures.
• Monitor Network Stability: Use a reliable wired or secure wireless connection to maintain consistent communication between workstations and the host server.
• Rename and Refresh .ND Files: Regularly verify and refresh Network Data (.ND) files to ensure proper file access in multi-user mode.
• Avoid Forced Shutdowns: Always close QuickBooks properly before shutting down the system to prevent file corruption.
• Use QuickBooks Repair Utilities: Run QuickBooks File Doctor and Database Server Manager scans periodically to detect and repair potential network or file access issues early.

Conclusion!

QuickBooks Error Code 6010, 100 typically arises due to network configuration issues, damaged data files, or incorrect hosting settings. Fix this error promptly to maintain stable multi-user access and prevent data loss, as quick action helps QuickBooks restore normal functionality without disruption. Follow the troubleshooting methods in this guide, such as adjusting firewall settings, repairing network data files, and using QuickBooks File Doctor to resolve the issue effectively. Regular software updates, proper hosting configuration, and frequent data backups also help prevent this error from happening again.

Hopefully, the information given above will be useful to you. But if you are still facing any kind of issues with your software and need professional assistance regarding accounting, bookkeeping & accounting software-related issues, then feel free to get technical support with us at +1-802-778-9005, or you can email us at support@ebetterbooks.com

FAQs:

How to fix QuickBooks error 6010 100 if temporary junk files are there on the system?

If users have junk files and folders stored on their system, it prevents them from accessing QuickBooks features fully and starts displaying errors on the screen. Here’s how to resolve them:

1. Navigate to the Internet Explorer settings to delete the cache, cookies, and temporary files.
2. Download and run the Clean Install Tool and Quick Fix My Program from the QuickBooks Tool Hub to fix the error.
3. Clear the junk files and folders using Disk Cleanup in the Windows operating system.
4. Use System File Checker to scan for errors in the system and repair them.

Can Multiple Users access QuickBooks at the same time?

Yes, a multi-user license allows different users to work on a same company file with the same QuickBooks license (single-user license). All users must be networked and must each have their own QuickBooks license. But if these 5-6 people are taking turns accessing your QuickBooks file, then yes, it’s possible for you to have 2 user licenses installed, and multiple people can share one of the user accounts. Just ensure that the folder permissions and mapping are set up correctly.

How to turn on Hosting on a multi-user network in QuickBooks Desktop? 

Below are the steps to enable the hosting of your company file for a multi-user network:

1. Open QuickBooks desktop on the host computer.
2. Navigate to the File menu. 
3. Choose Utilities.
4. Select Host Multi-User Access.
5. Press Yes to enable hosting mode.

What causes QuickBooks Error 6010, 100?

The error 6010, 100 can result from blocked network connections, corrupted .ND or .QBW files, incomplete QuickBooks installation, antivirus interference, or hosting being enabled on a non-server computer.

How do I know if my system is affected by Error 6010, 100?

Common indicators of QuickBooks Error 6010, 100 include frequent software crashes, inability to access company files in multi-user mode, system freezes, and the on-screen error message: “An error occurred. Your QuickBooks installation may have been modified.”

Does reinstalling QuickBooks fix Error 6010, 100?

In some cases, yes. If the error results from incomplete installation or damaged program files, reinstalling QuickBooks using a clean install process can resolve the QB error 6010, 100.

How does the QuickBooks Database Server Manager contribute to Error 6010, 100?

The Database Server Manager enables multi-user access by managing network data files. If it is not running correctly or not updated, QuickBooks may start displaying Error 6010, 100.