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QBDBMgrN Not Running on This Computer: How to Fix?

Jan 30, 2025 | QuickBooks

qbdbmgrn not running on this computer

If you’re a QuickBooks user, seeing errors like “QBDBMgrN not running on this computer” can be annoying, especially when you need to access your company file urgently. This error is commonly related to the QuickBooks Database Server Manager, which is used for hosting multi-user access to QuickBooks. When the QBDBMgrN service stops, it effects your workflow, particularly in multi-user mode.
In our guide today, we will help you understand the causes of this issue and provide step-by-step solutions to fix it.

What is QBDBMgrN?

QBDBMgrN stands for QuickBooks Database Server Manager Service. It enables multiple users to access the QuickBooks company file simultaneously on a network. When the service is not running, QuickBooks cannot switch to multi-user mode, and you might see an error message like:

  • “QBDBMgrN is not running on this computer.”
  • Windows Firewall: Disabled exceptions not defined
  • “Error: H202”
  • “Error: H505” or other multi-user mode errors.

Causes of QBDBMgrN Not Running

The issue often arises due to:

  1. Disabled QBDBMgrN Service: The service might be stopped or disabled on the server computer.
  2. Firewall Blocking the Service: Your Windows firewall settings may block the QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
  3. Outdated QuickBooks Version: Using an outdated version of QuickBooks can cause compatibility issues.
  4. Corrupted Installation: Corrupt QuickBooks program files or an incomplete installation may trigger the error.
  5. Damaged Windows Firewall Configuration: Wrong firewall settings can prevent the service from running.

Steps to Resolve the Issue

Follow these solutions step by step to fix the problem:

Solution 1: Restart the QBDBMgrN Service

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. Locate QuickBooksDBXX service (XX refers to your QuickBooks version year, e.g., QuickBooksDB28 for QuickBooks 2018).
  4. Right-click on the service and select Start if it’s stopped.
  5. If the service is already running, select Restart.
  6. Close the window and check if the issue is resolved.

Note: Ensure you perform this step on the server computer hosting the company file.

Solution 2: Update Your QuickBooks Desktop

  1. Open QuickBooks Desktop on the server computer.
  2. Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
  3. Click on the Update Now tab and select Get Updates.
  4. Once the updates are downloaded, restart QuickBooks.
  5. Check if the QBDBMgrN service is functioning correctly.

For detailed instructions, refer to our guide on How to Update QuickBooks Desktop.

Solution 3: Configure Your Firewall Settings

Firewalls often block the QBDBMgrN service, especially after QuickBooks updates. To resolve this:

  1. Open the Control Panel and navigate to Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Select Advanced Settings.
  3. Go to Inbound Rules > New Rule.
  4. Choose Program and click Next.
  5. Select the QuickBooks Database Server Manager executable file (“QBDBMgrN.exe”) located in the QuickBooks installation folder.
  6. Allow the connection and click Finish.

Repeat the same process for Outbound Rules. Restart your computer and check the service status.

Solution 4: Run QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor can help resolve issues related to multi-user mode. Here’s how to use it:

  1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
  2. Install and open the Tool Hub.
  3. Select the Company File Issues tab.
  4. Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor.

Choose your company file and follow the on-screen instructions.

Solution 5: Repair QuickBooks Installation

  1. Open the Control Panel and go to Programs and Features.
  2. Select your QuickBooks version and click Uninstall/Change.
  3. Choose Repair and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Restart your computer after the repair process is complete.

If this does not resolve the issue, consider performing a clean installation using the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool.

Preventing Future Issues

To avoid encountering the “QBDBMgrN not running” error in the future, follow these tips:

  1. Regularly Update QuickBooks: Keep your QuickBooks version and Windows operating system up to date.
  2. Schedule Firewall Exceptions: Ensure firewall settings are configured properly for QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
  3. Run Diagnostics Periodically: Use tools like QuickBooks File Doctor to identify and resolve potential issues early.
  4. Monitor Server Performance: Ensure the server computer hosting the company file has sufficient resources to run QuickBooks and its services efficiently.

Conclusion

The QBDBMgrN not running on this computer error can hinder your workflow, but it is usually simple to fix with the right steps. By restarting the service, updating QuickBooks, configuring your firewall, and using QuickBooks diagnostic tools, you can resolve the issue and get back to work.

For more troubleshooting tips and guides, explore our blog posts on QuickBooks Script Errors and Tools to Fix QuickBooks Issues. If the problem persists, consider seeking QuickBooks ProAdvisors support to ensure your QuickBooks setup is optimized to work as expected.