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QuickBooks Database Server Manager Not Working? Fix "qbdbmgrn Not Running

QuickBooks, the renowned accounting software, is widely used by businesses to manage their finances seamlessly. However, users occasionally encounter technical issues, one of which is the "qbdbmgrn not running" error. This error signifies that the QuickBooks Database Server Manager, crucial for multi-user access, is not operating correctly. This article delves into the causes of this problem and offers a comprehensive guide to resolving it.

Understanding the "qbdbmgrn Not Running" Error

The QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDBMgrN) is essential for multi-user setups, allowing multiple users to access and work on the company file simultaneously. When this service is not running, users cannot open or work on the company file in multi-user mode, which can significantly disrupt business operations.

Causes of the "qbdbmgrn Not Running" Error

Several factors can cause the QBDBMgrN service to stop running:

  1. Firewall or Security Software Interference: Firewalls or antivirus programs might block the QBDBMgrN service, preventing it from running.
  2. Windows Updates: Updates to the Windows operating system can sometimes interfere with QuickBooks services.
  3. Damaged QuickBooks Installation: Corrupt or incomplete installations of QuickBooks can cause the service to malfunction.
  4. Incorrect Service Settings: Misconfigured settings for the QBDBMgrN service can prevent it from starting correctly.

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

Step 1: Verify the QBDBMgrN Service Status

First, 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, locate QuickBooksDBXX (where XX is the version of QuickBooks, such as QuickBooksDB29 for QuickBooks 2019).
  4. Check the status of the service. If it’s not running, right-click on it and select Start.

Step 2: Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager

A simple restart of the QuickBooks Database Server Manager might resolve the issue:

  1. Open the QuickBooks Database Server Manager on your server computer from the Start menu under QuickBooks.
  2. Navigate to the Scan Folders tab.
  3. Ensure the folder containing your company files is listed. If not, click Add Folder to add it.
  4. Click Scan to rescan the folders.
  5. Restart your computer and check if the problem is resolved.

Step 3: Configure Firewall Settings

Firewalls can block QuickBooks services. Configuring your firewall settings to allow QuickBooks can help:

  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 New Rule in the right pane.
  4. Choose Port and click Next.
  5. Select TCP and enter the appropriate 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, choose 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

Ensuring that both QuickBooks and Windows are up-to-date can resolve compatibility issues:

  1. Open QuickBooks and go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
  2. Click Update Now and then Get Updates.
  3. Restart QuickBooks after installing the updates.
  4. Check for Windows updates by going to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.

Step 5: Repair QuickBooks Installation

If the previous steps don't work, repairing your QuickBooks installation may 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 Uninstall/Change.
  3. In the QuickBooks installation window, select Repair and follow the prompts.

Step 6: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor is 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 a significant disruption, but it is usually resolvable with the right steps. By verifying the service status, configuring firewall settings, updating software, and using QuickBooks tools, you can effectively address this issue. If these solutions do not work, contacting QuickBooks support for further assistance is advisable. With these steps, you can ensure that your QuickBooks Database Server Manager runs smoothly, allowing uninterrupted multi-user access to your company files.