Data loss in accounting software can be stressful, especially when QuickBooks data disappeared due to corruption, power failure, or system crash. Fortunately, Intuit provides a powerful built-in feature called the QuickBooks ADR Tool, also known as QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery, designed to help users restore lost company files with minimal effort.
Learn how the QuickBooks ADR Tool restores lost data using Auto Data Recovery. Step-by-step guide, tips & expert help at +1(866)500-0076.
In this in-depth guide, you’ll learn how the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Tool works, how to use the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery ADR files, and the exact steps to recover lost data with QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery safely and efficiently.
The QuickBooks ADR Tool (Auto Data Recovery) is a feature available in QuickBooks Desktop versions (Pro, Premier, and Enterprise). It automatically creates backup copies of your company file and transaction log to help recover data in case of file damage or accidental deletion.
The main purpose of QuickBooks data recovery using ADR is to restore:
Lost transactions
Corrupted company files
Missing accounting records
This tool works silently in the background and saves recovery files in a special ADR folder.
The QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery feature offers several advantages for businesses:
Automatic Backup Creation without user intervention
Recovery from Corrupt Files using ADR versions
Minimal Data Loss (usually last 12–24 hours only)
Built-in Tool (no extra installation required)
Secure Local Storage of recovery files
These features make the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Tool one of the most reliable options when QuickBooks crashes unexpectedly.
When ADR is enabled, QuickBooks creates two important files:
.QBW.ADR – Backup of the company file
.TLG.ADR – Transaction log backup
These files are stored in the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery folder and are essential to restore your lost data.
Default ADR Folder Location:
C:\Users\Public\Documents\Intuit\QuickBooks\Company Files\QuickBooksAutoDataRecovery
No separate QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery download is needed. ADR is automatically installed with QuickBooks Desktop (2012 and later versions).
However, make sure:
QuickBooks Desktop is updated
Company file size is under 1.5 GB
ADR is enabled in settings
Follow these steps to restore QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery files:
Open the QuickBooksAutoDataRecovery folder
Copy the .QBW.ADR file
Paste it into the original company file folder
Rename .QBW.ADR to .QBW
Open QuickBooks and load the restored file
Locate both .TLG.ADR and .QBW files
Copy them to a new folder
Remove .ADR extension
Open QuickBooks and rebuild the company file
These steps help recover recent transactions efficiently.
Understanding the cause helps prevent future issues:
Sudden system shutdown
Power failure
Network interruption
Virus or malware attack
Hard drive errors
Large company file size
Using the QuickBooks ADR Tool minimizes damage in such cases.
To reduce dependency on emergency recovery:
Enable automatic backups
Store backups on external drives
Update QuickBooks regularly
Verify and rebuild company files monthly
Avoid force shutdowns
These practices complement the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery process.
Sometimes, the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Tool may fail due to:
File size over 1.5 GB
ADR folder missing
Severe corruption
In such cases, professional assistance is recommended. You can contact QuickBooks experts at +1(866)500-0076 for advanced recovery solutions.
The QuickBooks ADR Tool is a lifesaver for businesses facing unexpected data loss. With its built-in QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery feature, users can restore critical accounting data without third-party tools. By understanding how ADR works and following proper recovery steps, you can protect your financial records effectively.
In addition to data recovery, businesses often need help with services like print form 1099 and 1096 in QuickBooks Online free, ensuring compliance and smooth year-end reporting. Combining proper recovery tools with expert guidance keeps your accounting system reliable and stress-free.
The QuickBooks ADR Tool helps recover lost or corrupted company files using Auto Data Recovery backups.
They are stored in the QuickBooksAutoDataRecovery folder inside the Company Files directory.
It works for QuickBooks Desktop Pro, Premier, and Enterprise (2012 and later).
Yes, if ADR files are available, you can restore data using .QBW.ADR and .TLG.ADR files.
Yes, it is a free built-in feature included with QuickBooks Desktop.