How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Unable to Connect to Remote Server Issue?

The “QuickBooks Unable to Connect to Remote Server” error occurs when the software fails to connect with the server that holds the company file or QuickBooks services such as payroll, banking, or updates. Common causes include incorrect network settings, blocked connections by firewall or antivirus software, disabled hosting settings, outdated QuickBooks versions, or weak internet connections. In some cases, damaged Windows components like MSXML or .NET Framework block QuickBooks communication. Users in multi-user mode often see this error when the host computer or server is not set up correctly.

To fix this issue, use the QuickBooks Database Server Manager to restore the connection between workstations and the host. Ensure a stable internet connection, allow QuickBooks through the firewall, enable hosting only on the main server, and update QuickBooks. Run the File Doctor tool and verify system components. Early troubleshooting and setting up a dedicated host can prevent future errors. Below are 8 methods to resolve the issue and restore QuickBooks functionality.

Method 1: Reset Internet Explorer Settings to Default

Resetting Internet Explorer to its default settings can fix issues caused by incorrect configurations or changes.

1. Press Alt + T in Internet Explorer.
2. Click on Internet Options.
3. Go to the Advanced tab and click Restore Advanced Settings.
4. Click OK, close the browser, and check if the issue is fixed.

Method 2: Create Data File (.ND File) on the Network

Creating a .ND (Network Data) file helps QuickBooks connect to company files over the network.

1. Press the Windows key and type QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
2. Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager from the list.
3. Uninstall and reinstall QuickBooks if the Database Server Manager is not listed.
4. Complete the QuickBooks installation process.
5. Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
6. Go to the folder where company files are stored and click Add Folder.
7. After adding all folders, click Scan Now.
8. Scan all QuickBooks company files.
9. Verify a .ND file is created for each company file.

Method 3: Configure and Restart the QuickBooks Database Server Manager

Restarting and configuring the Database Server Manager ensures QuickBooks services run correctly on the network.

• Open Start Menu, type “Services.”
• Locate and open QuickBooksDBXX (replace XX with your version number).
• Under the General tab, check Service Status. Click Stop if it is running.
• Set Startup type to Automatic.
• Go to the Log On tab and select Local System Account.
• Open the Recovery tab. For First failure, Second failure, and Subsequent failure, select Restart the Service.
• Click Start to restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

Method 4: Verify the QuickBooks Desktop File Hosting

Checking file hosting settings ensures only the server hosts the company file, preventing network conflicts.

1. Open QuickBooks and go to the File menu.
2. Click Utilities and select Stop Hosting Multi-User Access.
3. Click Yes to confirm when Host Multi-User Access appears instead.
4. Turn off hosting on all workstations.
5. Press Windows key, type Task Manager, and press Enter.
6. Click More Details, go to the Services tab, and remove QBBDBMgrN.exe.
7. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press OK.
8. Find QBDBMgrN.exe, start it, and set to Automatic Start.

Method 5: Update QuickBooks with the Latest Version

The “Unable to Connect to Remote Server” error in QuickBooks may happen if you have an outdated version installed. To fix this, update to the latest version of QuickBooks.

1. Open QuickBooks and go to the Help menu.
2. Select Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop.
3. Click the Options tab and choose Mark All.
4. Click Update Now and wait for updates.
5. Close QuickBooks and restart your computer.

Method 6: Restart Router 

Restarting the router helps restore network connectivity needed for QuickBooks.

1. Find the power cable or switch on the router’s rear.
2. Turn off the power or unplug it.
3. Wait for a minute.
4. Plug the power cable back in or turn the power on.
5. Restart the router and wait for the LEDs to stabilize.
6. Check your internet connection after the restart.

Method 7: Adjust Antivirus or Firewall Settings to Allow QuickBooks

Allowing QuickBooks through the firewall and antivirus prevents connection blocks.

1. Open Firewall Settings.
2. Locate Firewall or Security Settings.
3. Temporarily disable the Firewall.
4. Check QuickBooks connection.
5. Set up Firewall Rules.
6. Add QuickBooks to the Allowed Apps List.
7. Re-enable the Firewall.
8. Check your antivirus settings and make sure QuickBooks has the necessary permissions to avoid being blocked.

Method 8: Check the Settings of the Web-Mail Preferences

Correct email settings help QuickBooks send forms without errors.

1. Go to the Edit menu in QuickBooks and select Preferences.
2. Choose Send Forms and check the Webmail Preferences..
3. Select the Email Account and click Edit under My Preferences.
4. Set the port and server name in the 0000000000 section based on your email provider’s settings.
5. Configure QuickBooks email service with the correct SMTP servers and ports.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix  QuickBooks Desktop Unable to Connect to Remote Server Issue?

1. Stable internet connection on all systems.
2. Administrative rights for QuickBooks settings.
3. Latest QuickBooks version with updates.
4. Firewall and antivirus allow QuickBooks (ports: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382).
5. QuickBooks Database Server Manager running on the host.
6. Hosting enabled only on the server.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Unable to Connect to Remote Server Issue?

1. QuickBooks cannot connect to the remote server.
2. Users in multi-user mode can’t access the company file.
3. Payroll, banking, or updates fail to sync.
4. QuickBooks slows down or freezes when connecting.
5. The host computer or server is misconfigured or offline.

How to Prevent  QuickBooks Unable to Connect to Remote Server Issue?

1. Ensure a stable internet connection.
2. Keep QuickBooks updated.
3. Allow QuickBooks through firewalls and antivirus (ports: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382).
4. Use a dedicated server for multi-user mode.
5. Install and run QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
6. Enable hosting only on the host system.
7. Back up the company file regularly.
8. Monitor network performance to avoid disruptions.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for  QuickBooks Desktop Unable to Connect to Remote Server Issue?

Seek professional help for the “QuickBooks Unable to Connect to Remote Server” issue if basic troubleshooting-like checking the internet, updating QuickBooks, configuring the firewall, and verifying hosting-doesn’t work. Contact us if you face repeated disconnections, cannot access the company file in multi-user mode, or have server configuration issues you can’t fix. Professional support is also needed if Windows components like MSXML or .NET Framework are corrupted or if the QuickBooks Database Server Manager fails after reinstalling.