# Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to 2020: Step-by-Step Guide

## Why Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to 2020?

If your business is still using **QuickBooks Desktop 2018**, you may face **limited support from Intuit** and risk losing access to important features like payroll, tax updates, and online banking.

Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to 2020** ensures improved performance, enhanced security, and better compatibility with modern Windows systems.

## Risks of Staying on QuickBooks Desktop 2018

Continuing to use QuickBooks 2018 can result in:

* ❌ Payroll and tax updates no longer working
* ❌ Online banking and payment features disabled
* ❌ Security vulnerabilities and data risks
* ❌ Frequent crashes or slow performance
* ❌ Limited Intuit support for errors

**Expert Insight:**
Accounting professionals recommend upgrading QuickBooks at least every 2–3 years to maintain performance and data integrity.

## Benefits of Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop 2020

Upgrading from 2018 to **QuickBooks Desktop 2020** provides several key advantages:

* ✅ Faster performance and smoother navigation
* ✅ Better Windows 10 (64-bit) compatibility
* ✅ Enhanced reporting and search tools
* ✅ Reduced crashes and file errors
* ✅ More stable multi-user mode

Even though newer versions exist, 2020 is **a significant improvement over 2018** in stability and security.

## Can You Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to 2020 for Free?

### Is a Free Upgrade Available?

**No.**

QuickBooks Desktop 2020 requires:

* A **valid license and product number**
* A **paid purchase** unless you already own 2020

### What Is Free?

* Company file conversion from 2018 to 2020
* Migration of your accounting data

> **Important:**
> The software itself requires a license, but **data conversion is free**.

## Preparations Before Upgrading QuickBooks 2018

### 1. Check System Requirements

Ensure your computer meets these minimum requirements:

* Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 (64-bit recommended)
* Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended)
* At least 2.5 GB free disk space
* Stable internet connection

### 2. Back Up Your Company File

1. Open **QuickBooks Desktop 2018**
2. Go to **File > Back Up Company > Create Local Backup**
3. Save the backup to an external drive or cloud storage

### 3. Update QuickBooks 2018

* Go to **Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop**
* Install all available updates before upgrading

## How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to 2020?

### Step 1: Purchase QuickBooks Desktop 2020

Select the edition that fits your business needs:

* **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020**
* **QuickBooks Desktop Premier 2020**
* **QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise 2020**

### Step 2: Download and Install QuickBooks 2020

1. Download the installer
2. Right-click and select **Run as Administrator**
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete installation

### Step 3: Open and Upgrade Your Company File

1. Launch **QuickBooks Desktop 2020**
2. Go to **File > Open or Restore Company**
3. Select your **2018 company file**

QuickBooks will **automatically convert your file to 2020 format**.

### Step 4: Verify and Rebuild Data

* Go to **File > Utilities > Verify Data**
* If errors are detected, select **Rebuild Data**

## Common Upgrade Issues and Solutions

### Upgrade Freezes or Stops

**Fix:**

* Temporarily disable antivirus software
* Install QuickBooks using Selective Startup mode

### Company File Won’t Open After Upgrade

**Fix:**

* Restore a verified backup
* Use QuickBooks File Doctor

### Multi-User Mode Errors

**Fix:**

* Update Database Server Manager
* Reconfigure firewall and hosting settings
## Real Example: QuickBooks 2018 to 2020 Upgrade

**Scenario:**
A small consulting firm using QuickBooks 2018 faced slow performance and payroll errors.

**Solution:**

* Created verified backups
* Upgraded to QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020
* Verified and rebuilt the data file

**Results:**

* Faster reports and payroll functionality restored
* Improved system stability
* Reduced error messages

## Best Practices for a Smooth Upgrade

* ✔ Upgrade on a **local computer first**
* ✔ Maintain **multiple verified backups**
* ✔ Avoid upgrading over a network
* ✔ Test payroll, reports, and invoices after upgrade
* ✔ Update all workstations in multi-user environments
## Expert QuickBooks Upgrade Support

📞 **Call Now: 866-593-4750**

> Certified QuickBooks experts ensure a **secure, fast, and error-free upgrade**.

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Can I upgrade directly from QuickBooks 2018 to 2020?

Yes. QuickBooks supports direct upgrades, and your company file will be automatically converted.

### Will upgrading delete my data?

No, as long as you back up your data before starting.

### How long does the upgrade take?

* Small files: 20–30 minutes
* Large files: 1–2 hours

### Do I need to uninstall QuickBooks 2018?

No. You can keep it installed, but only one version should host multi-user mode.

### Is QuickBooks Desktop 2020 still supported?

Support depends on Intuit’s lifecycle policy, but it is **more stable and secure than 2018**.

## Conclusion

Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop 2018 to 2020** restores performance, enhances compatibility, and reduces security risks. Delaying the upgrade can lead to **errors, payroll issues, and operational downtime**.

📞 **Call QuickBooks Upgrade Specialists Today: 866-593-4750**

> Upgrade confidently and keep your accounting system running smoothly.