QuickBooks is a popular accounting software used by businesses of all sizes to manage their finances. One common issue that users encounter is the "qbdbmgrn not running" error. This error indicates that the QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running, which can prevent access to company files in multi-user mode. In this article, we'll explore the causes of this issue and provide step-by-step instructions to fix it.

Understanding the "qbdbmgrn Not Running" Error

The QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDBMgrN) is a crucial component for multi-user setups in QuickBooks. It allows multiple users to access the company file simultaneously by hosting the file on a server. When the QBDBMgrN service is not running, users cannot open or work on the company file in multi-user mode.

Causes of the "qbdbmgrn Not Running" Error

Several factors can cause the QBDBMgrN service to stop running, including:

1. Firewall or Security Software Interference: Firewalls or antivirus software can block the QBDBMgrN service, preventing it from running.

2. Windows Updates: Sometimes, Windows updates can interfere with QuickBooks services, causing them to stop running.

3. Damaged QuickBooks Installation: Corrupt or incomplete QuickBooks installations can cause the QBDBMgrN service to fail.

4. Incorrect Service Settings: If the QBDBMgrN service settings are incorrect, it may not start properly.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix the "qbdbmgrn Not Running" Error

Step 1: Verify the QBDBMgrN Service Status

The first step is to check if the QBDBMgrN service is running on your server computer.

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.

2. Type services.msc and press Enter.

3. In the Services window, scroll down and look for QuickBooksDBXX (where XX represents the version of QuickBooks, e.g., QuickBooksDB29 for QuickBooks 2019).

4. Check the status of the service. If it is not running, right-click on it and select Start.

Step 2: Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager

Sometimes, a simple restart of the QuickBooks Database Server Manager can resolve the issue.

1. Open the QuickBooks Database Server Manager on your server computer. You can find it in the Start menu under QuickBooks.

2. Click on the Scan Folders tab.

3. Ensure that the folder containing your company files is listed. If not, click Add Folder to add it.

4. Click on Scan to rescan the folders.

5. Restart your computer and check if the issue is resolved.

Step 3: Configure Firewall Settings

Firewalls can block QuickBooks services. Configuring your firewall settings to allow QuickBooks can resolve the issue.

1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to System and Security > Windows Firewall.

2. Click on Advanced Settings.

3. In the left pane, select Inbound Rules, then click on New Rule in the right pane.

4. Select Port and click Next.

5. Select TCP and enter the following ports for your QuickBooks version:

   • QuickBooks 2021: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382

   • QuickBooks 2020: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377

   • QuickBooks 2019: 8019, 56726, 55368-55372

6. Click Next, select Allow the connection, and follow the prompts to complete the rule setup.

7. Repeat the process for Outbound Rules.

Step 4: Update QuickBooks and Windows

Ensure that you are running the latest updates for both QuickBooks and Windows.

1. Open QuickBooks and go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.

2. Click on Update Now and then Get Updates.

3. Restart QuickBooks after the updates are installed.

4. Check for Windows updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Step 5: Repair QuickBooks Installation

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, repairing your QuickBooks installation might help.

1. Press Windows + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter to open the Programs and Features window.

2. Select QuickBooks from the list and click on Uninstall/Change.

3. In the QuickBooks installation window, select Repair and follow the prompts.

Step 6: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor is a tool designed to fix common QuickBooks issues, including the QBDBMgrN not running error.

1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.

2. Install and open QuickBooks Tool Hub.

3. Click on Company File Issues and then select Run QuickBooks File Doctor.

4. Follow the prompts to scan and repair your company file.

 Accounting & Bookkeeping Services For Your Business can also help manage and prevent such errors by maintaining your financial records accurately and efficiently.

Conclusion

The "qbdbmgrn not running" error in QuickBooks can be frustrating, but it is usually fixable with the right steps. By verifying the service status, configuring your firewall, updating software, and using QuickBooks tools, you can resolve this issue and get back to managing your finances efficiently. If you continue to experience problems, consider reaching out to QuickBooks support for further assistance.