QuickBooks Error 6190 816: Causes, Symptoms, and Solutions

QuickBooks is a widely used accounting software that helps businesses manage their financial transactions efficiently. However, like any software, it is not without its issues. One common problem users encounter is QuickBooks Error 6190 816. This error can prevent access to company files, disrupting essential business operations. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and solutions to QuickBooks Error 6190 816, helping you to understand and resolve the issue effectively.

What is QuickBooks Error 6190 816?

QuickBooks Error Code 6190 816 occurs when a user attempts to access a company file in single-user mode while another user is already logged into the company file. It signifies that the company file is not accessible by the QuickBooks software. The error typically appears with a warning message: “QuickBooks was unable to open the company file on the hosted computer.”

Causes of QuickBooks Error 6190 816

Understanding the root causes of QuickBooks Error 6190 816 is crucial for effective troubleshooting. 

Here are some common reasons why this error might occur:

1. Mismatch Between Transaction Log File and Company File: The most common cause is a mismatch between the transaction log file (.tlg) and the company file (.qbw). This inconsistency can prevent QuickBooks from accessing the file.
2. Single-User Mode Conflicts: The error often appears when accessing the company file in single-user mode while another user is logged in. This creates a conflict that leads to the error.
3. Corrupted QuickBooks Files: Corrupted or damaged QuickBooks company files can trigger Error 6190 816. This corruption can occur due to various reasons, including improper shutdowns and malware infections.
4. Incomplete or Corrupt Installation: An incomplete or corrupt installation of QuickBooks can lead to this error. This can happen if the software is not installed correctly or if the download is corrupted.
5. Windows Registry Issues: Corruption in the Windows registry from a recent QuickBooks-related software change can also cause this error. This corruption can interfere with the proper functioning of QuickBooks.
6. Malware or Virus Infections: Malware or virus infections can damage QuickBooks files, leading to Error 6190 816. These infections can corrupt the files necessary for QuickBooks to function correctly.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6190 816

Identifying the symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6190 816 can help you diagnose the problem quickly. 

Here are some common signs that you may be experiencing this error:

1. Error Message: The most obvious symptom is the error message: “QuickBooks was unable to open the company file on the hosted computer” or “QuickBooks is Unable to Open this Company File Error Codes: (-6190, -816).”
2. Inability to Access Company File: You may be unable to access or work with your company file. This can prevent you from performing essential accounting tasks.
3. Performance Issues: You may experience performance issues with QuickBooks, such as slow response times or freezing, especially when trying to open or work with the company file.
4. Unexpected Shutdowns: QuickBooks may shut down unexpectedly when trying to access the company file. This can result in data loss if not addressed promptly.

Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error 6190 816

There are several solutions to fix QuickBooks Error 6190 816. Follow these steps carefully to resolve the issue:

1. Disable Multi-User Access in QuickBooks Desktop

One effective method to fix this error is to disable multi-user access:

1. Run as Admin: Start QuickBooks and the company file in admin mode to ensure full access to all settings.
2. Access Utilities: Go to the ‘File’ menu and select ‘Utilities’.
3. Stop Hosting Multi-User Access: Click on ‘Stop Hosting Multi-User Access’ to switch your system to single-user mode.
4. Backup Your Data: Create a backup of your company file as a precaution.
5. Proceed to Further Solutions: If the error persists, move on to using QuickBooks File Doctor and the QuickBooks Tool Hub.

2. Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor can diagnose and fix issues with company files:

1. Download the QuickBooks Tool Hub: Visit the official Intuit website to download the latest version of the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
2. Install the Tool Hub: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the Tool Hub.
3. Run QuickBooks File Doctor: Open the Tool Hub and select ‘Company File Issues’. Click on ‘Run QuickBooks File Doctor’.
4. Select Your Company File: Choose your company file from the drop-down menu or browse to find it.
5. Diagnose and Repair: Follow the prompts to diagnose and repair any issues with your company file.

3. Run the Quick Fix My Program Tool

The Quick Fix My Program tool can help resolve common QuickBooks errors:

1. Open the Tool Hub: If you have closed it, run the QuickBooksToolHub.exe file again.
2. Select Program Problems: Go to the ‘Program Problems’ tab and select ‘Quick Fix My Program’.
3. Run the Tool: Follow the on-screen instructions to run the tool and fix any issues.
4. Restart QuickBooks: Open QuickBooks again and check if the error persists.

4. Rename .ND and .TLG Files

Renaming these files can resolve issues with QuickBooks:

1. Close QuickBooks: Ensure QuickBooks is closed.
2. Locate Your Company File: Find the folder containing your company file.
3. Rename .ND and .TLG Files: Rename the .ND and .TLG files by adding ‘.OLD’ at the end of each file name (e.g., company_file.qbw.nd.OLD).
4. Restart QuickBooks: Open QuickBooks and check if the error is resolved.

5. Use the QuickBooks Refresher Tool

The QuickBooks Refresher Tool can fix various QuickBooks errors:

1. Download the Refresher Tool: Visit the Intuit website to download the QuickBooks Refresher Tool.
2. Run the Tool: Follow the on-screen instructions to run the tool.
3. Fix Issues: The tool will scan for and fix any issues.
4. Restart Your Computer: Restart your computer and try opening QuickBooks again.

6. Create a New User in Windows

Creating a new Windows user can resolve issues caused by a damaged or corrupted user profile:

1. Open Control Panel: Go to ‘User Accounts and Family Safety’.
2. Create a New User: Select ‘Manage Another Account’ and then ‘Add a New User’.
3. Choose Account Type: Choose whether to create a Standard or Administrator user.
4. Set Password: Set a strong password for the new user.
5. Switch User: Log in with the new user account and run QuickBooks.

7. Update QuickBooks

Updating QuickBooks to the latest version can fix many issues:

1. Backup Your Data: Ensure you have a backup of your company file.
2. Close QuickBooks: Close the QuickBooks application.
3. Download the Update: Visit the QuickBooks Update Service webpage to download the latest update.
4. Run the Update: Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update.
5. Verify the Update: Check if the update was successful and if the error is resolved.

8. Change File Location Temporarily

Changing the file location can help resolve file access issues:

1. Create a New Folder: Create a new folder in a different location.
2. Copy Company Files: Copy the company file and associated files (.ND and .TLG) to the new folder.
3. Open QuickBooks: Open QuickBooks and navigate to the new folder to access the company file.

9. Use QB Connection Diagnostic Tool

The QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool can fix network and company file issues:

1. Download the Tool: Visit the Intuit website to download the QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool.
2. Run the Tool: Follow the on-screen instructions to install and run the tool.
3. Scan for Issues: Click ‘Scan Now’ to identify and resolve any issues.
4. Restart Your Computer: After the tool has fixed the issues, restart your computer and open QuickBooks.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 6190 816 can significantly disrupt business operations by preventing access to essential company files. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms, and following the provided solutions can help you effectively resolve this issue. Regular maintenance, updates, and careful management of your QuickBooks environment are key to preventing such errors in the future. By taking these steps, you can ensure that QuickBooks continues to be a valuable tool for managing your business’s financial tasks efficiently.