How to Fix QuickBooks Error -6010, -100 While Opening a Company File?

QuickBooks Error Code 6010, -100 typically occurs when trying to open a company file in multi-user mode and the software is unable to access the network or file location. This error often appears due to incorrect hosting settings, interference from antivirus or firewall programs, or damaged configuration files like .ND and .TLG. It can affect various versions of QuickBooks including Pro, Premier, Enterprise, and Accountant editions. Users may also encounter this issue if QuickBooks was reinstalled or the Database Server Manager isn’t running properly on the server.

To fix the error, ensure hosting is enabled only on the server, not on workstations. Use the QuickBooks File Doctor, rename the .ND and .TLG files, and adjust antivirus/firewall settings to allow QuickBooks. Verify the Database Server Manager is running and scanning the correct file locations. Always back up your company file, close all active sessions, and ensure admin access before making changes.

Method 1: Configure Firewall Settings to Allow QuickBooks Access

This method ensures that QuickBooks can communicate through your firewall by configuring the necessary exceptions, allowing access to the company file in multi-user mode.

Step 1: Add Firewall Port Exception for QuickBooks

1. Open the Start menu and search for Windows Firewall Settings.
2. Click on Advanced Settings.
3. Right-click Inbound Rules and select New Rule.
4. Select Port and click Next.
5. Choose TCP and enter the required ports for your QuickBooks version:
   • 2020 and later: 8019, XXXXX
   • 2019: 8019, XXXXX
   • 2018: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382
   • 2017: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377
   • 2021, 2022, and later use dynamic ports (find the dynamic port number).
6. Click Next, select Allow the Connection, and click Next again.
7. Ensure all profiles are checked and click Next.
8. Name the rule “QBPorts(year)” and click Finish.
9. Repeat for Outbound Rules.

Step 2: Create Windows Firewall Exceptions for QuickBooks Programs

1. Open the Start menu, search for Windows Firewall, and open it.
2. Click Advanced Settings.
3. Right-click Inbound Rules and select New Rule.
4. Choose Program and click Next.
5. Select This Program Path and click Browse.
6. Choose an executable file, then click Next.
7. Select Allow the Connection and click Next.
8. Ensure all profiles are checked, then click Next
9. Name the rule “QBFirewallException(name.exe)” and click Finish.
10. Repeat for Outbound Rules.

Here is a list of executable files and their locations:

Executable files	Location
IntuitSyncManager.exe	C:\Program Files\Common Files\Intuit\Sync
QBCFMonitorService.exe	C:\Program Files\Common Files\Intuit\QuickBooks
AutoBackupExe.exe	C:\Program Files\Intuit\QUICKBOOKS YEAR
QBW32.exe	C:\Program Files\Intuit\QUICKBOOKS YEAR
QBLaunch.exe	C:\Program Files\Common Files\Intuit\QuickBooks
OnlineBackup.exe	C:\Program Files\QuickBooks Online Backup
FileManagement.exe	C:\Program Files\Intuit\QUICKBOOKS YEAR

Open QuickBooks Desktop and attempt to access your company file in the Multi-user mode.

Method 2: Switch from Multi-user Mode to Single-user Mode

Switching to single-user mode can help resolve issues related to accessing the company file in multi-user mode.

1. Open QuickBooks and go to File.
2. Select Switch to Single-user Mode.
3. Click OK to confirm the warning.
4. QuickBooks will close and reopen the file in single-user mode.
5. You’re ready to proceed.

Method 3: Turn Off Hosting on Workstations

Disabling hosting on workstations helps prevent errors related to accessing company files in multi-user mode.

1. Open QuickBooks and go to File > Utilities.
2. When Host Multi-User Access is visible, skip to the next workstation.
3. Click Stop Hosting Multi-User Access if shown.
4. Restart your system and reopen QuickBooks.
5. Disable the internet monitor in Program Settings.
6. For ESET NOD32, rename the file with .Old.
7. Relaunch QuickBooks and check if the error is fixed.

Method 4: Rename .ND Files to Resolve Network Issues

Renaming .ND files can resolve network access issues that prevent opening the company file in multi-user mode.

1. The .ND file allows QuickBooks access in multi-user mode.
2. An issue prevents opening the file in multi-user mode.
3. Rename the .ND files to fix the network issue and regain access.

Method 5: Use the QuickBooks Database Server Manager

The QuickBooks Database Server Manager creates .ND files for multi-user access. If these files are disconnected, error 6010 100 may occur.

1. QuickBooks Database Server Manager creates .ND files for multi-user access.
2. Disconnected files may cause error 6010 100.
3. Download and run the Database Server Manager to fix it.

Method 6: Use QuickBooks File Doctor from the Tool Hub

QuickBooks File Doctor fixes issues like data damage, connection errors, and network problems.

1. It scans the company file and network for connectivity issues or corruption.
2. After scanning, it identifies problems and suggests solutions.
3. The tool automatically repairs network issues and rebuilds corrupted data.
4. A report is provided, showing the issues found and actions taken.

Method 7: Re-pairing the Company File

Re-pairing the company file can resolve access issues in multi-user mode.

1. Browse to the folder with your company file.
2. Locate the .QBW file.
3. Right-click and select Copy, then Paste.
4. Press Ctrl to open QuickBooks Desktop.
5. In the No Company Open window, click Open or Restore an Existing Company.
6. Select the copied file and click Open.

Method 8: Backup and Restore Your Company File

Creating regular backups ensures protection from data loss, errors, and system failures.

1. Regular backups protect against data loss, errors, power outages, or malware.
2. Create a backup manually or automatically, based on your preference.
3. Restoring a backup recovers your company file if it’s damaged, missing, or corrupted.
4. This helps fix QuickBooks multi-user mode error 6010 100.

Method 9: Close the QuickBooks Processes

Ending QuickBooks processes can resolve issues preventing access to the company file.

1. Log in with admin credentials.
2. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
3. Select Users.
4. Find QuickBooks processes (e.g., qbupdate.exe, qbw32.exe, qbdbmgrn.exe).
5. Right-click and select End Task.
6. Try accessing the company file and check if the error is fixed.

Method 10: Reinstall QuickBooks Software

Reinstalling QuickBooks can fix issues preventing access to the company file in multi-user mode.

1. Reinstall QuickBooks Desktop if unable to access your company file in multi-user mode.
2. Reinstalling resolves file, network, or installation issues and fixes software errors.

Additional Solutions

1. Disable QuickBooks background processes on your workstation.
2. Set your workstation to single-user mode, not a server.
3. Ensure the main server is accessible over the network.
4. Confirm your workstation has internet access (wired or wireless).
5. Contact your IT expert if network issues occur.
6. Log in to the company file with administrator credentials.
7. Run QuickBooks File Doctor to diagnose and fix the issue.
8. After the tool completes, check if the error is resolved.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Error Code 6010, -100?

1. Backup your company file
2. Log in as admin on server and workstation
3. Update QuickBooks to the latest version
4. Close all QuickBooks windows
5. Disable hosting on workstations
6. Temporarily disable antivirus and firewall
7. Check network connection to the server
8. Ensure Database Server Manager is running

How to Identify QuickBooks Error Code 6010, -100?

1. Error: “Error -6010, -100: QuickBooks installation may have been modified.”
2. QuickBooks won’t open the company file in multi-user mode
3. File opens on one system, not others over the network
4. Hosting is enabled on a workstation, not the server
5. QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running
6. Antivirus or firewall blocks QuickBooks processes
7. .ND or .TLG files are damaged or missing

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error Code 6010, -100?

1. Enable hosting only on the server
2. Keep QuickBooks updated
3. Regularly scan and verify your company file
4. Allow QuickBooks through antivirus and firewall
5. Ensure Database Server Manager is running on the server
6. Avoid renaming or deleting .ND and .TLG files without guidance
7. Use stable network connections and avoid abrupt shutdowns

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Error Code 6010, -100?

Seek professional help for QuickBooks Error 6010, -100 if basic troubleshooting (renaming files, adjusting settings, using File Doctor) doesn’t work. It’s also recommended if you’re unsure about modifying firewall or antivirus settings, if the company file is damaged, or if multiple users face the issue. If the Database Server Manager isn’t working or you’re dealing with a complex setup, we can prevent data loss and ensure a proper fix.