Resolve the “QuickBooks Database Server Manager stopped” issue easily with proven fixes. Call +1-866-513-4656 for expert guidance.

If your QuickBooks Desktop is unable to open company files on a multi-user network, you’re likely facing the QuickBooks Database Server Manager stopped running issue. This error prevents shared access and can halt daily accounting operations across your network.

Users often see messages like:

• “QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running on this computer.”
• “Cannot connect to the company file.”
• “Hosting mode is turned off.”

QuickBooks Database Server Manager stopped running? Learn how to fix it on Windows 10/11 with step-by-step troubleshooting. Call +1-866-513-4656 for help.

Whether you’re running Windows 10 or Windows 11, QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDSM) ensures that data files are accessible by multiple users. When it stops unexpectedly, multi-user mode fails. You can quickly fix this issue using the detailed guide below or call the QuickBooks experts at +1-866-513-4656 for direct assistance.

What is QuickBooks Database Server Manager?

QuickBooks Database Server Manager is a core utility that enables company files to be hosted on a network. It helps workstations access shared data simultaneously. Without it, only single-user mode is available.

When the service stops working, QB Desktop cannot locate or open the file through another computer—causing “not running,” “not responding,” or “stopped” errors.

Common Causes of QuickBooks Database Server Manager Not Running

Several underlying reasons can cause the Database Server Manager to shut down or fail to start. Here are the most common causes:

1. Windows Firewall Blocking QBDSM Service
2. A misconfigured firewall or antivirus may block QuickBooks processes like QBDBMgrN.exe, preventing network communication.
3. QuickBooks Database Server Manager Service Stopped
4. If the “QuickBooksDBXX” service (where XX represents year/version) isn’t running, network users won’t connect to the company file.
5. Damaged .ND (Network Data) File
6. Corrupt network descriptor files can stop QuickBooks from recognizing the file location or host system.
7. Outdated QuickBooks Desktop or Server Manager
8. Failing to update QuickBooks or Database Server Manager may lead to compatibility problems on Windows 10 or 11.
9. Incorrect Host Settings
10. Hosting may be disabled or incorrectly configured on the server computer.

How to Fix QuickBooks Database Server Manager Not Running

Follow these detailed steps to restore Database Server Manager and get multi-user access back online.

Step 1: Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager Service

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
2. Locate the QuickBooksDBXX service (example: QuickBooksDB30 for 2020).
3. Right-click the service and select Restart.
4. Set the Startup Type to Automatic.
5. Reopen QuickBooks and check if multi-user access is restored.

Step 2: Add Firewall Exceptions Manually

1. Go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Advanced Settings.
2. Select Inbound Rules > New Rule.
3. Choose Program, then browse for C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks.
4. Add the following executables:

• QBDBMgrN.exe
• QBW32.exe
• QBUpdate.exe

1. Allow the connection and repeat for Outbound Rules.
2. Restart your computer.

Step 3: Recreate the .ND File

1. Navigate to the folder containing your company file.
2. Locate and delete the .ND file (e.g., CompanyName.qbw.nd).
3. Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
4. Click Scan Folders and then Add Folder.
5. Select the company file folder and click Scan Now.
6. Once done, reopen QuickBooks in multi-user mode.

Step 4: Update QuickBooks Database Server Manager

1. Open QuickBooks Tool Hub (latest version).
2. Go to Network Issues tab.
3. Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
4. Let it update database service components automatically.
5. Restart the host system and confirm if the service runs without interruption.

Step 5: Check Hosting Settings

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop on the server computer.
2. Go to File > Utilities.
3. Ensure Host Multi-User Access is selected.
4. If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, leave it as is.

Prevention Tips

Keep your system configured correctly to avoid this problem in the future:

• Keep QuickBooks Desktop and Database Server Manager updated.
• Configure Windows Firewall and antivirus exceptions for QuickBooks files.
• Regularly restart your server after updates.
• Avoid renaming or moving company files without updating paths in QBDSM.
• Create periodic system restore points before major updates.

FAQ

1. What is the QuickBooks Database Server Manager used for?

It helps QuickBooks Desktop share company files across multiple users by managing database connections on a network.

2. Why does QuickBooks Database Server Manager stop working?

It can be stopped by Windows services, firewall issues, damaged configuration files, or outdated QuickBooks components.

3. Can I reinstall Database Server Manager without reinstalling QuickBooks?

Yes. You can use the QuickBooks Tool Hub or separate installation media to repair or reinstall just the server manager.

4. How can I fix “QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running on this computer” on Windows 11?

Restart the QuickBooksDBXX service through services.msc, and ensure your firewall settings allow the QB executables.

5. How do I download or update the QuickBooks Database Server Manager?

Download the latest version matching your QuickBooks Desktop release, then install it on your server and restart the service.

If you still face “QuickBooks Database Server Manager not working” or “not responding” messages after these steps, your network setup or service configuration may need manual repair. You can quickly restore operations by calling the certified QuickBooks team at +1-866-513-4656 for immediate one-on-one guidance.