# [phone]How to Fix QuickBooks Error Code 6189 and 816?

QuickBooks, developed by Intuit, is a powerful accounting software used by millions of small and medium-sized businesses. However, like any technology, it sometimes encounters errors that can disrupt your workflow. One of the more common and frustrating issues is QuickBooks Error Code 6189 and 816. These errors usually pop up when a user tries to open a company file but the file cannot be accessed.

This detailed guide will walk you through the causes, symptoms, and step-by-step troubleshooting methods to resolve QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816. If you prefer expert assistance, don’t hesitate to call our QuickBooks specialists at [phone] — available 24/7 in the USA.

🚨 What is QuickBooks Error Code 6189 and 816?
QuickBooks Error 6189, 816 is part of the 6000 series of errors. It typically indicates an issue when trying to access a company file, especially in a multi-user setup. This error is not caused by data corruption but rather by system or configuration problems.

💬 Error Message Displayed:
“An error occurred when QuickBooks tried to access the company file (Error Codes: -6189, -816).”

🔍 Causes of QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816
Understanding the root causes is essential for effectively fixing the error. Here are the most common reasons:

Multi-user configuration issues
Company file (.QBW) mismatch with transaction log file (.TLG)
Lack of file access permissions
QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not installed
Damaged or missing QuickBooks components
Hosting is enabled on multiple workstations
The file is opened by another user in single-user mode
Antivirus or firewall blocking file access
Network Data file (.ND) is corrupted
Drive or server hosting the file is inaccessible or offline
🧭 Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816
Recognizing the symptoms will help you identify the error quickly:

QuickBooks crashes or freezes when opening a company file
The system becomes sluggish
Unable to switch from single-user to multi-user mode
Error 6189 and 816 appears frequently
Delay in accessing the company file over the network
✅ Pre-Troubleshooting Checklist
Before diving into the solution, make sure:

QuickBooks Desktop is updated to the latest version
Your system meets QuickBooks’ minimum system requirements
You are logged in as an administrator
You’ve taken a full backup of your QuickBooks company file
🛠️ Methods to Fix QuickBooks Error Code 6189 and 816
Method 1: Restart All Systems Including Server
Sometimes a simple restart can eliminate temporary glitches.

Steps:

Restart your server computer.
Restart all workstations.
Open QuickBooks and try accessing the company file.
If this doesn’t work, proceed to the next solution.

Method 2: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub
Intuit provides a free tool to fix common errors.

Steps:

Download the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
Install and open the Tool Hub
Navigate to Company File Issues.
Click on Quick Fix my File.
If the error persists, select Network Issues and use QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Method 3: Check Hosting Settings
Multiple systems hosting the company file can cause conflicts.

Steps:

Open QuickBooks on all workstations.
Go to File > Utilities.
If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, click it to disable hosting.
On the server computer, ensure Hosting Multi-User Access is enabled.
Method 4: Rename .ND and .TLG Files
These configuration files may be corrupted. Renaming them forces QuickBooks to recreate new ones.

Steps:

Navigate to the folder containing your company file.
Locate files with the same name as your company file but with extensions .ND and .TLG (e.g., companyfile.qbw.nd and companyfile.qbw.tlg).
Rename both files:
companyfile.qbw.nd → companyfile.qbw.nd.old
companyfile.qbw.tlg → companyfile.qbw.tlg.old
Restart QuickBooks and try accessing the file again.
Method 5: Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager
This is especially useful for multi-user setups.

Steps:

Open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Go to Network Issues.
Click on QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Browse to your company file location and click Start Scan.
Once completed, restart your server and try accessing the file.
Method 6: Move Company File to Local Drive
Sometimes network storage causes access issues.

Steps:

Copy the company file from the network drive to a local drive (e.g., Desktop).
Open QuickBooks and navigate to the local file.
If the file opens, the problem lies with the network.
Method 7: Verify Folder Permissions
Incorrect permissions can restrict file access.

Steps:

Right-click the folder containing the company file.
Click Properties > Security.
Ensure the following users have full control:
SYSTEM
Admin
QBDataServiceUserXX (where XX is your version)
Click Edit and provide full control if missing.
Method 8: Update Windows and QuickBooks
Outdated software can cause incompatibility.

Steps:

Check for Windows Updates and install them.
Open QuickBooks and go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
Install any available updates.
Method 9: Create a New Windows User
Creating a new profile may help bypass corruption in your user profile.

Steps:

Go to Control Panel > User Accounts.
Click Add a new user with Administrator rights.
Log in with the new account and try opening QuickBooks.
Method 10: Restore a Backup
If the company file is corrupted, restoring a backup may be your only option.

Steps:

Go to File > Open or Restore Company.
Select Restore a backup copy.
Follow the prompts and open the backup file.
🧑‍💻 Expert Help Available
If none of these methods resolve your issue or you’re uncomfortable performing these steps, don’t risk your financial data. Contact our QuickBooks Error Support Team at:

📞 Toll-Free Number: [phone] (USA)

We’re available 24/7 to offer remote support, screen sharing assistance, and guaranteed resolutions.

⚙️ Preventing QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816 in the Future
Here are some best practices to help avoid this issue:

Always log out of QuickBooks properly
Avoid hosting company files on unstable or slow networks
Regularly update QuickBooks and Windows
Keep a schedule of full data backups
Use a dedicated server for multi-user access
Ensure antivirus and firewall are configured to allow QuickBooks
Limit simultaneous access by unnecessary users
📚 FAQs — QuickBooks Error Code 6189 and 816
Q1: Can I fix Error 6189 and 816 without technical knowledge?
Yes, some fixes like restarting your computer or renaming .ND and .TLG files are simple. But more advanced fixes may require support. You can always call us at [phone].

Q2: Is my data at risk due to this error?
Generally, this error is due to configuration or system issues — not data corruption. But always back up your data before troubleshooting.

Q3: Does QuickBooks Tool Hub work for this error?
Yes. It can help resolve company file and network issues that cause Error 6189 and 816.

Q4: Can I use QuickBooks in multi-user mode after fixing this?
Yes, fixing this error typically restores proper multi-user functionality.

🏁 Conclusion
QuickBooks Error Code 6189 and 816 is a frustrating yet fixable issue that arises when attempting to access a company file — especially in a multi-user setup. By understanding the root causes and using the detailed methods above, you can likely resolve the problem on your own.

However, for professional help, data safety, or time constraints, call our QuickBooks Error Experts at [phone]. We’re ready to get you back on track — fast, securely, and efficiently.