Fix “WDDM Service Not Running” Error in QuickBooks

The “WDDM Service Not Running” error in QuickBooks Desktop appears when the program can’t connect with the Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM). This system helps Windows handle graphics and visuals. QuickBooks needs it to display windows, forms, and graphics properly.

To fix it, update your drivers, enable hardware acceleration, and run QuickBooks as an administrator. Ensure your system meets the minimum requirements, your Windows is updated, and no third-party apps are interfering. Regularly update drivers and use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to fix system conflicts. 2 methods are mentioned below to fix the QuickBooks WDDM Service Not Running Error.

What Does the “WDDM Service Not Running” Error Mean in QuickBooks?

The “WDDM Service Not Running” error occurs when QuickBooks cannot communicate with the Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) service, which is responsible for managing graphics and visual rendering in Windows.

Method 1: Configure the WDDM Service to Start Automatically

Setting the WDDM service to automatic ensures it runs every time the system starts, which can help resolve related performance or display issues.

1. Open the Start menu and click the Windows icon.
2. Go to the Control Panel.
3. Select Administrative Tools.
4. Click on Services.
5. Find WDDM Service in the list.
6. Right-click it and choose Properties.
7. In the General tab, set Startup Type to Automatic.
8. Click Apply, then Restart the service.

Method 2: Start the System in Safe Mode

Starting the system in Safe Mode helps isolate issues related to the WDDM service by running Windows with minimal drivers and services.

1. Log in to your computer as an administrator.
2. Restart your PC.
3. While the computer is booting, press F8 repeatedly to open Advanced Boot Options.
4. Select Safe Mode and press Enter.
5. Running Windows in Safe Mode can help fix WDDM-related issues by reducing background conflicts.

Check and Update Drivers

1. Open File Explorer and right-click on This PC.
2. Select Manage.
3. In the left panel, click System Tools → Device Manager.
4. Right-click each listed device and go to the Driver tab.
5. Choose Update Driver for every device.
6. Make sure to update your Video Card (graphics) drivers as well.

Check for Windows Updates

1. Open the Start menu.
2. Click on Settings.
3. Go to the System section.
4. Select About from the left panel.
5. Under Windows Specifications, check your current Windows version.

Prerequisites to Fix the “QuickBooks WDDM Service Not Running” Error

1. Log in to Windows as an administrator.
2. Install all pending Windows updates.
3. Verify system compatibility with WDDM and QuickBooks Desktop.
4. Update QuickBooks Desktop to the latest version.
5. Ensure a stable internet connection for downloads and updates.
6. Disable or uninstall third-party display/graphics tools.
7. Back up QuickBooks company files before making changes.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop WDDM Service Not Running Error?

1. “WDDM Service Not Running” error appears in QuickBooks.
2. QuickBooks crashes or fails to open.
3. Screen flickers, freezes, or goes blank while using QuickBooks.
4. Forms or menus become unresponsive or slow.
5. Hardware acceleration is missing or not functioning properly.
6. Display issues appear after a Windows or driver update.
7. QuickBooks Tool Hub reports display-related problems.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Desktop WDDM Service Not Running Error?

1. Keep Windows and graphics drivers updated to avoid compatibility issues.
2. Use a WDDM-supported graphics card for smooth display performance.
3. Regularly update QuickBooks Desktop to the latest release.
4. Avoid installing third-party display or graphics tools that may cause conflicts.
5. Enable hardware acceleration in QuickBooks if your system supports it.
6. Do not disable essential Windows display services.
7. Run QuickBooks as an administrator for proper access permissions.
8. Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub frequently to detect and fix display errors.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Desktop WDDM Service Not Running Error?

Seek professional help when updating drivers, enabling hardware acceleration, or running QuickBooks in compatibility mode does not fix the error. Assistance is also needed if QuickBooks continues to crash, display issues persist after all troubleshooting steps, or if you are unsure about modifying system settings or drivers. Contact us if QuickBooks Tool Hub fails to detect or resolve the issue, or if the error appears after a major Windows update or hardware change.