Effortless Fixes for QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Not Working

26.08.25 09:34 AM - By Joan Martin

QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Not Working


Are you having trouble because QuickBooks multi-user mode not working? There could be many reasons why the QB multi-user environment starts malfunctioning and prevents you from accessing company files over the network. The factors that lead to this could be misconfigured Windows file permissions, firewall, or antivirus applications, the QB database server manager is unable to open the company files, and many others.

Consequently, this creates a hindrance to the workflow and stops you from using the company files that are shared over the network. To fix this problem, review the entire blog to identify potential improvements.

If you are unsure whether resolving the multi-user issue is easy for you, consider consulting a professional. They have helped many users and would be happy to help you as well. Dial 1.855.738.2784 to connect.


Common Causes You Should Know Why QB Multi-User Mode is Not Working

Have a look at the factors that are preventing you from accessing files in multi-user mode.

  1. The primary cause could be misconfigured Windows file permissions.
  2. Also, if the hosting settings are not properly configured.
  3. In case QB is not installed on the server.
  4. It is because the QB database server manager is unable to open the company files. 
  5. The firewall or antivirus applications are an obstacle between the user computers.


5 Methods to Resolve the QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Not Working

Do the following if your QB multi-user mode is not working. Let me take you through the steps mentioned.


Method 1: Verify the folder permissions

You need to verify that the folder has sufficient permissions to be shared over the network. See how to check whether it is properly configured.

  1. Go to the Start menu.
  2. Click on File Explorer.
  3. Look for the folder that has your company files stored in.
  4. Right-click on this folder.
  5. Choose Properties.
  6. Tap on the Security tab.
  7. Pick the Advanced option.
  8. Tap QBDataServiceUserXX.
  9. Choose Edit, and then you need to allow the following files.
    • Traverse Folder/Execute File
    • List Folder/Read Data
    • Read Attributes
    • Read Extended Attributes
    • Create Files/Write Data
    • Create Folders/Append Data
    • Write Attributes
    • Write Extended Attributes
    • Read Permissions

If you find that the files are not properly set. Follow the instructions below:

  1. Pick the folder that has your company files stored in.
  2. Right-click on the folder and choose Properties.
  3. Choose the Security tab.
  4. Tap on the Edit option. 
  5. Choose QBDataServiceUserXX.
  6. Click Full Control.
  7. Tap on the Allow option.
  8. Pick Apply.
  9. Tap OK.


Method 2: Install QB Database Server Manager

If you don’t have a database server installed on your computer, first install it and then proceed to the methods below. This is also responsible for sharing files over the network. Moreover, this helps in rectifying issues like QuickBooks error H202, H505, H101, etc.


Method 3: Alter Windows admin rights settings

You know, the multi-user problem is also due to improper firewall settings. Therefore, you need to change these settings, which is only possible if you have admin rights.


Method 4: Scan your folder

  1. Head to the server computer.
  2. Go to the Start menu.
  3. Type Database and open QuickBooks Database Server Manager
  4. Click on the Scan Folder tab.
  5. Choose Browse.
  6. Select the folder that has your company files stored in.
  7. When it is done, click OK.
  8. And if you are ready, choose Start Scan.
  9. When the scanning is finished, you can find your files in the QuickBooks company files found section. Continue using the company files from another computer over the network.


Method 5: Turn on hosting on the server computer

  1. Head to the File menu.
  2. Click Utilities.
  3. Pick Host Multi-user Access.
  4. Choose Yes.


The Final Thoughts

We hope that you have understood why QuickBooks multi-user mode not working. With this, if you have read the blog completely, you can rectify this problem at the earliest. If you don’t want to do it alone, give a call 1.855.738.2784 and ask your questions to the experts.

Recommended Reading - QuickBooks Error 2000: How to Fix it?


Joan Martin