# An Expert Guide on How to Reset the QBregistration.dat File
The majority of programs, including QuickBooks, offer a trial version of their program, which is intended only for testing purposes. For a limited time, typically a month, users can download and use the software for free.

The software's functionality and speed can be tested, allowing you to use the program. To continue using the product after the 30-day trial period has ended, users must purchase it.
You get legitimate purchase credentials, including the product number, license number, validation code, etc., when you buy the software.
These credentials can be used to register your QB product with Intuit. In some cases, you might need to reset your QuickBooks registration.
## What are the Procedures to Reset QuickBooks Desktop Registration
Here are the methods that will help you reset QBDT registration on your device. You can modify the QBregistration.dat file to create a new one.
The QBregistration.dat file can be renamed to allow the application to generate a new file. Resetting the registration can also be accomplished by creating a new file.
**Below, you will find the comprehensive procedure for both methods:**
### Procedure I: How to create QBregistration.dat file
Resetting QuickBooks registration can be accomplished efficiently by creating a [QBregistration.dat file](https://asquarecloudhosting.com/quickbooks-qbregistration-dat-error/).
**Here are a few simple methods to complete this:**
* Once you have closed the Company file, close all open QuickBooks browser windows
* The file explorer window can be opened by pressing the Windows + E keys together on your keyboard
* Navigate to your C drive and then the QuickBooks application's installation location. Program Data > Common Files > Intuit > QuickBooks is where you can typically find it
* In the folder, right-click on the blank screen and hover over the New option
* Choose Text Document from the list of choices
* The following needs to be copied into the Notepad window that appears
* Those who have QuickBooks Pro should substitute Pro for x.x
* In place of x.x, you should enter 20.0, 29.0, and 28.0 for QuickBooks Desktop 2020, 2019, and 2018 versions, respectively
* In the second line, enter the number that was given to you as your Product ID in place of the zeroes at the first six spots
* Your product license number will appear after the next 15 zeroes
* Other characters in the text, including dashes (-), should not be altered or removed
* In your notepad window, navigate to the File menu and choose Save as
* In the Name column, enter qbregistration.dat, and in the Save as type, enter All Files
* Press the Save button to save the newly created file
### Procedure II: To recreate it, rename the registration file
Another option is for you to rename the original QBregistration.dat file, rendering it outdated. If you rename the file, QuickBooks won't recognize it and will ask you to register again.
An automated creation of a new QBregistration.dat file occurs upon registration. To complete this procedure, you need to go through the steps mentioned below:
* Shut down your QuickBooks Desktop program and all open company files
* Press the Start button on your computer, then type Windows Explorer
* To launch the Explorer window and access your system drive, typically the C drive, click on the search result
* C:\ProgramData\Common Files\Intuit\QuickBooks is the path to the QuickBooks installation folder
* After granting permission to see the secret files and directories, find the QBregistration.dat file
* You can also use the Search option to look it up
* Once the file is located, right-click on it and select Rename
* After adding the (.old) extension to the file name, press the Enter key
**Explore more about**:- [Why is QuickBooks not loading?](https://hackmd.io/@alastormoody/quickbooks-not-loading)
## Conclusion
In this blog, we’ve discussed two essential procedures to reset the QBregistration.dat file with the help of the information mentioned in the above content.
However, if you find yourself stuck in this and facing issues in resetting it, you can directly connect with our experts by dialing +1(855)-738–0359.
## FAQ on qbregistration.dat File in QuickBooks
### What is the qbregistration.dat file in QuickBooks?
* The qbregistration.dat file in QuickBooks is a crucial system file that stores product license and registration details. It ensures that QuickBooks verifies your product activation every time you open the software, allowing it to run without license-related errors.
### Why is the qbregistration.dat file important for QuickBooks users?
* This file is important because it validates the authenticity of your QuickBooks installation. Without it, the software may not recognize your license, leading to activation problems, restricted access, or unexpected error messages that prevent you from using QuickBooks efficiently.
### What issues can occur if the qbregistration.dat file is missing or corrupted?
* If the qbregistration.dat file is missing or damaged, QuickBooks may display license errors, fail to open, or repeatedly prompt for reactivation. These issues can interrupt business operations, making it essential to repair or recreate the file to restore functionality.
### How can I fix a corrupted qbregistration.dat file in QuickBooks?
* To fix a corrupted qbregistration.dat file, you can re-register QuickBooks using the product and license number, or recreate the file manually. Running the [QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool](https://asquarecloudhosting.com/quickbooks-connection-diagnostic-tool/) or performing a clean installation also helps in resolving file corruption issues.
### Can I manually recreate the qbregistration.dat file?
* Yes, the qbregistration.dat file can be manually recreated. This involves deleting the damaged file, opening QuickBooks, and re-entering your product details. QuickBooks then generates a new file automatically, ensuring your license and registration are stored correctly.
### Does repairing the qbregistration.dat file affect my company data?
* No, repairing or recreating the qbregistration.dat file does not affect your company files or accounting data. This process only restores your software’s licensing information, allowing QuickBooks to run smoothly without interfering with business records.
### Where is the qbregistration.dat file located in QuickBooks?
* The qbregistration.dat file is located in the QuickBooks installation folder on your computer. The exact path depends on the version of Windows and QuickBooks you are using, but it is typically found in the Program Data directory.
### When should I contact support for qbregistration.dat file errors?
* If QuickBooks continues to show license errors even after recreating or repairing the qbregistration.dat file, it is best to contact QuickBooks support. Experts can provide advanced troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue quickly and securely.