How to Rename .ND and .TLG Files in QuickBooks

.ND and .TLG both are the configuration files that allow QuickBooks Desktop to access/open the company file in a network or multi-user environment. These files are basically generated through the QuickBooks Database Server Manager and help to identify the applications database server used. 

Such files play a lead role when multiple users attempt to access the same company file from different locations. The corrupted or damaged .ND and .TLG files prevent you from accessing or functioning QuickBooks software in your system. This is why you are all recommended to rename these files as soon as possible. This process doesn’t cause any accidental data loss since these files are automatically recreated while opening or scanning the company files using the QuickBooks database server manager.

What are .nd and .tlg files?

In QuickBooks, .nd (Network Data) and .tlg (Transaction Log) files are essential. The .nd file facilitates communication between QuickBooks and other workstations in multi-user environments. The .tlg file tracks all transactions since the last backup, ensuring data recovery by logging every change made.

When to rename QuickBooks .ND and .TLG files?

Here’s when and why you need to rename .nd and .tlg files:

1. When the Company file won’t open.
2. When the .ND or .TLG file is damaged, faulty or corrupted.
3. When the .QBW file is moved during an upgrade without moving the corresponding .ND file.

Step-by-Step Guide to Rename .nd and .tlg Files

Locating the .nd and .tlg Files

To rename .nd and .tlg files in QuickBooks, start by locating them in the same directory as your company file. The .nd file and .tlg file share the same name as your company file, with their respective extensions.

Here’s how to find them:

1. Open the folder where your QuickBooks company file is stored, usually within the QuickBooks directory or a custom location you set up.
2. Look for files with .nd and .tlg extensions. For instance, if your company file is named “CompanyFile.qbw,” you should find “CompanyFile.nd” and “CompanyFile.tlg” in the same folder.

Rename the Files

To rename .nd and .tlg files, follow these steps:

1. Close QuickBooks: Ensure QuickBooks is closed on all computers to avoid conflicts during renaming.
2. Find the Files: Navigate to the folder containing your QuickBooks company file and locate the .nd and .tlg files.
3. Rename the .nd File:

• Right-click the .nd file.
• Choose “Rename” from the context menu.
• Append “.old” to the file name (e.g., “CompanyFile.nd” becomes “CompanyFile.nd.old”).
• Press Enter to save the change.

4. Rename the .tlg File:

1. Right-click the .tlg file.
2. Select “Rename.”
3. Append “.old” to the file name (e.g., “CompanyFile.tlg” becomes “CompanyFile.tlg.old”).
4. Press Enter to save.

Renaming these files will prompt QuickBooks to generate new .nd and .tlg files the next time you open your company file, helping resolve network and data issues.

Verifying the Renaming Process

After renaming the .nd and .tlg files, confirm the process was successful and QuickBooks is working correctly:

1. Open QuickBooks: Start QuickBooks and open your company file. New .nd and .tlg files will be created automatically.
2. Check for Errors: Ensure the company file opens without errors. If problems occur, verify that the renaming steps were followed accurately.
3. Verify Multi-User Access: In a multi-user setup, switch to multi-user mode and confirm that all users can access the company file without issues.
4. Review Recent Transactions: Ensure all recent transactions are present and no data was lost during the renaming. The new .tlg file should log all changes since the last backup.

Following these steps helps resolve network and data issues, ensuring QuickBooks operates smoothly and maintains data integrity. If you face any challenges, seek help from a QuickBooks Professional to ensure proper and safe handling.

Use of .ND and .TLG files

Below, we’ve presented a list of all the exclusive features related to QuickBooks .ND and .TLG files.

Let’s take a look:

1. QuickBooks .ND and .TLG files are available in the same folder as you have all other company files. These files are created when you start using the QuickBooks database server manager and identified with the extensions: MyCompanyFile.qbw.nd, MyCompanyFile.qbw.tlg
2. Once .ND and .TLG files were enabled in multi-user mode, and they will also be presented when you switch to the single-user mode.
3. The .ND and .TLG files are 1 KB in size. These are the text files that can be edited using a notepad in your system.
4. .ND and .TLG files include the information QuickBooks needs to communicate with the server, primarily the IP address, port, and other technical details. It also helps you to detect whether the company file is in use or not.

Note: To check your Product Information, including server name and the IP address, press F2 or Ctrl+1 keys on your keyboard.

List of errors related to renaming QuickBooks .ND and .TLG files!

There are some of the most common company file error occurs when renaming QuickBooks .nd and .tlg files, which includes:

• H series error such as QuickBooks error H101, H202, H303, or H505
• QuickBooks Error Code -6189, 816
• QuickBooks Error 80070057 (The Parameter is Incorrect).

Conclusion

Renaming .nd and .tlg files in QuickBooks helps fix network and data issues. Locate and rename these files properly, then verify the changes. Regular maintenance and correct procedures ensure QuickBooks runs smoothly, maintaining data integrity and improving performance.

FAQs

Can I delete .nd and .tlg files instead of renaming them?

You can delete .nd and .tlg files, but renaming them is safer. Deleting forces QuickBooks to generate new files, which can be risky if issues arise, as the old files are lost. Renaming preserves the old files for easy restoration if needed.

What to do if I can’t find the .nd or .tlg files?

If you can’t locate the .nd or .tlg files, check the directory where your QuickBooks company file is stored. These files should be in the same folder as the company file. If they are still missing, it may signal a deeper issue needing professional help.

What happens if I incorrectly rename a .nd or .tlg file?

If you rename a .nd or .tlg file incorrectly, QuickBooks may fail to locate or recreate these files, causing errors in opening the company file or using multi-user mode. Follow the proper renaming procedure to prevent such issues.

Disclaimer: The information outlined above for “How to Rename .ND and .TLG Files in QuickBooks” is applicable to all supported versions, including QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, Accountant, and Enterprise. It is designed to work with operating systems such as Windows 7, 10, and 11, as well as macOS.