QuickBooks is a powerful tool for managing your business finances, but like any software, it’s not immune to occasional errors. One of the more frustrating errors that QuickBooks users encounter is Error -6073, -99001. This error typically occurs when QuickBooks cannot access your company file, usually in a multi-user environment. The good news is that resolving it is usually straightforward, and we’ll guide you through the causes and solutions in this blog post.
What is QuickBooks Error -6073, -99001?
QuickBooks Error -6073, -99001 usually appears when a user tries to open a company file in multi-user mode. It often happens when the file is being used by another user, or when QuickBooks cannot access the file properly due to a conflict with your computer’s setup or network settings. The error message typically reads something like:
“QuickBooks is unable to open the company file. The file is already in use. (-6073, -99001).”
In most cases, this error occurs when QuickBooks cannot locate or establish a proper connection to the company file or if it detects a network-related issue preventing it from accessing the file.
Why Does QuickBooks Error -6073, -99001 Happen?
There are several reasons why QuickBooks may throw this error. Let’s look at some of the common causes:
1. File in Use by Another User
In a multi-user environment, QuickBooks relies on the company file being accessed correctly over a network. If another user has the file open, or if the file is being accessed improperly by a different process, you may encounter Error -6073, -99001.
2. Corrupted Company File
If the company file is corrupted or damaged, QuickBooks may not be able to open it properly, leading to this error. Corruption can occur due to improper shutdowns, network issues, or file system errors.
3. Network or Connectivity Issues
QuickBooks operates in a multi-user setup by relying on the network to access shared company files. A slow or faulty network connection can interfere with this process, causing the error. Additionally, firewall or antivirus settings may block QuickBooks from connecting to the company file.
4. Incorrect Hosting Configuration
QuickBooks uses a hosting feature to allow multiple users to access the same file at once. If the hosting settings are misconfigured or inconsistent across computers, this error can occur. For instance, if only one computer in your network has hosting turned on, QuickBooks will struggle to connect the other users to the company file.
5. Damaged QuickBooks Installation
Sometimes, the QuickBooks software itself may be corrupted. If important files or services within QuickBooks are missing or damaged, you may see errors like -6073, -99001.
6. Firewall or Security Software Interference
Security software such as firewalls, antivirus programs, or VPN services can block the connection QuickBooks needs to access the company file, especially in multi-user environments. These programs might view QuickBooks as a threat and restrict its ability to communicate with the file.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error -6073, -99001
Now that you understand the possible causes of this error, let’s dive into how to fix it. Try these solutions step-by-step to resolve QuickBooks Error -6073, -99001.
Solution 1: Ensure No Other Users Have the File Open
If you’re in a multi-user environment, make sure that no one else is accessing the company file while you’re trying to open it. The error often occurs when two or more users are trying to open the file at the same time.
- Step 1: Ask other users to close the company file.
- Step 2: Ensure the file is not being used by any other process on your computer (check in Task Manager for QuickBooks processes).
Solution 2: Verify Your Hosting Configuration
Incorrect hosting configurations can cause QuickBooks to fail when attempting to access a company file in multi-user mode.
- Step 1: Go to File > Utilities in QuickBooks.
- Step 2: Make sure you’re using Host Multi-User Setup on the correct machine.
- Step 3: Ensure that all other computers in your network are configured to be in multi-user mode and have QuickBooks properly installed.
Solution 3: Use the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool
QuickBooks offers a built-in tool called the QuickBooks File Doctor, which can diagnose and fix several errors, including network and company file issues.
- Step 1: Download and install QuickBooks File Doctor from the official Intuit website.
- Step 2: Launch the tool, then select the company file that is causing the error.
- Step 3: Allow the tool to run and follow the on-screen instructions to fix the file or network issues.
Solution 4: Check Your Network Connection
If the error is related to connectivity, ensure that the network connection between your computers is stable and fast enough to support QuickBooks’ data transfer needs. A weak or interrupted network connection can cause this error.
- Step 1: Test the network connection by accessing other shared files or websites.
- Step 2: If there are issues with your network, restart the router or contact your IT administrator.
Solution 5: Disable Antivirus or Firewall Temporarily
Your firewall or antivirus program may be blocking QuickBooks from connecting to the company file. Temporarily disable your antivirus or firewall and check if the error persists.
- Step 1: Disable the firewall or antivirus software.
- Step 2: Try to access the company file again.
- Step 3: If the error disappears, adjust the settings of your firewall or antivirus to allow QuickBooks to connect.
Solution 6: Repair QuickBooks Installation
If your QuickBooks installation is corrupted, repairing the software might help resolve the issue.
- Step 1: Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.
- Step 2: Locate QuickBooks in the list of installed programs.
- Step 3: Select Repair and follow the prompts to repair the installation.
Solution 7: Restore a Backup of the Company File
If none of the above solutions work, restoring a backup of your company file might resolve the issue, especially if the file itself is corrupted.
- Step 1: Open QuickBooks and go to File > Open or Restore Company.
- Step 2: Select Restore a backup copy and follow the prompts to restore a recent backup.
QuickBooks Error -6073, -99001 can be frustrating, especially if you’re in a multi-user environment or relying on QuickBooks for daily operations. However, with the right troubleshooting steps, you can resolve this issue quickly and get back to business.
By understanding the common causes, such as network connectivity issues, corrupted files, or incorrect hosting configurations, you’ll be better equipped to tackle this error. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to QuickBooks support for further assistance.
If you have any other questions or need more detailed help with QuickBooks errors, feel free to leave a comment below or reach out to a QuickBooks expert!