# Ultimate Guide: How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to QuickBooks Desktop 2021 ![upload_e812319391603ff0b1b9a86805987437](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/HkmUhdJIZe.png) Upgrading QuickBooks Desktop from an older version like QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to QuickBooks Desktop 2021 brings significant improvements in performance, security, features, and compatibility. This guide walks you through every step of the upgrade process, key pre-upgrade tasks, installation steps, data migration, common errors, troubleshooting solutions, and detailed FAQs. If you need help anytime during the upgrade, you can call 1-877-818-9848 for instant assistance. 1. Why Upgrade from QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to 2021 ## Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop 2021 can transform the way you handle your accounting, offering: ✅ New Features & Enhancements * Enhanced reporting tools * More powerful banking features * Updated user interface * Faster performance * Improved data integrity * New security updates 🚀 Better Support QuickBooks Desktop 2018 is no longer supported by Intuit. That means: * No product updates * No technical support * Potential compliance issues Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop 2021 ensures you get ongoing updates and support. 🔒 Security & Data Protection Older versions have outdated security protocols. Upgrading offers: * Stronger data encryption * Better compliance * Protection against cyber threats Need upgrade help? Dial 1-877-818-9848 now. ## 2. Important Preparations Before Upgrading Before starting the upgrade process, follow these preparatory steps: 📌 Check System Requirements QuickBooks Desktop 2021 requires: * Supported Windows OS (Windows 8.1, 10, 11) * Minimum 2.5 GB of disk space * 4 GB RAM (recommended) Verify your system meets these specifications. 📌 Back Up Your Company File Backing up ensures your data stays safe. Steps: * Open QuickBooks Desktop 2018. * Go to File > Back Up Company > Create Local Backup. * Choose backup location. * Click Save. For help backing up, call 1-877-818-9848. 📌 List of Installed Add-Ons Make a list of third-party add-ons you use (payroll apps, inventory plugins, etc.). Check compatibility with QuickBooks Desktop 2021. ## 3. License & Subscription Considerations 🧾 Do You Have a License? QuickBooks Desktop 2018 licenses do not automatically entitle you to QuickBooks Desktop 2021. You must purchase an upgrade or a new license. 📦 Subscription vs. Perpetual License * Subscription — You pay annually and receive updates. * Perpetual License — One-time purchase for a specific version. If you're unsure about your license, call 1-877-818-9848 for verification. ## 4. Step-By-Step: How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop **Step 1: Uninstall Old Version (Optional)** You can keep them side-by-side, but uninstalling older versions prevents confusion. Windows: * Go to Control Panel > Programs & Features. * Select QuickBooks Desktop 2018. * Choose Uninstall/Change. * Follow the prompts. **Step 2: Download QuickBooks Desktop 2021** Go to the Intuit download page or use your installation CD/USB. **Step 3: Run Installation File** * Locate the downloaded installer. * Right-click and Run as Administrator. * Accept the License Agreement. * Enter your license & product number. If you need help with licensing, call 1-877-818-9848. **Step 4: Choose Installation Type** * Express Install — Recommended in most cases. * Custom & Network Install — Required for multi-user setups. **Step 5: Finish Install** * After installation: * Restart your computer. * Launch QuickBooks Desktop 2021. * Activate when prompted. ## 5. Updating Company Files QuickBooks company files from 2018 need to be upgraded to open in 2021. **Automatic Upgrade Prompt** When you open your company file in QuickBooks Desktop 2021 for the first time: QuickBooks will prompt you to update the file. Choose Yes to upgrade. Manual Upgrade (Recommended) * Go to File > Open or Restore Company. * Choose Open a company file. * Select your company file (.QBW). * Click Open. Follow the prompts to update. 💡 Tip: Keep a backup before upgrading the file! ## 6. Multi-User Conversion & Server Setup If your company uses QuickBooks in multi-user mode, follow these steps: 🛠 Install QuickBooks Database Server Manager * During installation, choose Custom & Network Install. * Select Database Server Only. * Complete the installation. 🖧 Set Up Multi-User Mode * Open QuickBooks on the server. * Go to File > Utilities > Host Multi-User Mode. * On workstations, open QuickBooks and switch to multi-user. 🔐 Firewall & Security * Ensure ports are open: * 8019 * 56728-56730 If you face network issues, contact 1-877-818-9848. ## 7. Post-Upgrade Tasks & Optimization After upgrading, make sure everything is working smoothly. ✅ Check Company Reports Generate key reports: * Profit & Loss * Balance Sheet * Accounts Receivable 🧾 Verify Payroll Ensure that payroll data is correct and that your payroll subscription is active. 🧰 Reconnect Bank Feeds Reconnect your bank and credit card accounts. 🔄 Update QuickBooks Go to Help > Update QuickBooks to get the latest maintenance releases. 📚 Train Users If you have staff who use QuickBooks, provide a quick orientation on new features in 2021. ## 8. Common Errors & How to Fix Them ❌ Error: “Company File Not Compatible” * Cause: Old file version * Fix: Backup file and upgrade to latest version. * Support: 1-877-818-9848 ❌ Error: “QuickBooks Won’t Install” Cause: Corrupt installer or missing components Fix: * Run installer as Admin * Rename installation folders * Use QuickBooks Tool Hub Need help? Call 1-877-818-9848. ❌ Multi-User Mode Issues Cause: Firewall settings or incorrect permissions Fix: * Open firewall ports (8019, 56728-56730) * Configure Database Server Manager Support is one call away: 1-877-818-9848 ## 9. Tips for a Smooth Upgrade 📌 Always back up your company data before upgrading. 📌 Keep your license & product key handy. 📌 Do not skip the verify/rebuild process before upgrading. 📌 If using add-ons, check compatibility with 2021. 📌 Test multi-user setup after installation. Pro tip: Whenever you get stuck, call 1-877-818-9848 for guided support. ## 10. FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) **❓ 1. Is QuickBooks 2018 company file compatible with QuickBooks Desktop 2021?** Yes. QuickBooks Desktop 2021 can open and upgrade company files created in 2018. Always back up before updating. For assistance, dial 1-877-818-9848. **❓ 2. Will I lose data when I upgrade to QuickBooks Desktop 2021?** No, your data remains intact. QuickBooks upgrades the company file safely. Just make sure you have a backup. Need help with backup? Call 1-877-818-9848. **❓ 3. Can I install QuickBooks Desktop 2021 alongside QuickBooks Desktop 2018?** Yes. Both versions can exist on the same computer. This allows testing before full migration. For configuration help, call 1-877-818-9848. **❓ 4. Do I need a new license to install QuickBooks Desktop 2021?** Yes. QuickBooks Desktop 2018 licenses do not transfer to 2021. You need a valid license key for 2021. **❓ 5. How long does the upgrade take?** The upgrade duration depends on: * Company file size * PC speed * Network performance Typically 10–60 minutes. **❓ 6. My multi-user setup stopped working. What do I do?** Check firewall settings. Install Database Server Manager on your server. If needed, call 1-877-818-9848 for step-by-step support. **❓ 7. How can I check if my payroll is up to date after upgrading?** * Go to Employees > My Payroll Service > Account/Billing Information. * Verify your subscription is active. **❓ 8. QuickBooks won’t install — what now?** Try: * Running as Administrator * Using QuickBooks Tool Hub * Checking Windows updates For guided help, call 1-877-818-9848. **❓ 9. What if third-party add-ons don’t work after upgrading?** Check for updated versions from the add-on provider. Many add-on tools release compatible updates. **❓ 10. Can I revert back to QuickBooks Desktop 2018 after upgrading?** No. Once the company file is updated to 2021, it can’t be opened in older versions.