--- # System prepended metadata title: 'Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020: Transform Your Business' tags: [Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020] --- ![Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/H14fC4USWe.png) # Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020: Complete Step-by-Step Guide If your business is still using **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017**, you’re working with software that is **no longer supported by Intuit**. This means **no security updates, no payroll services, and no technical support**, which can seriously affect your accounting operations and data security. ## **Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020** Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020** helps restore stability, improves performance, and ensures compatibility with modern Windows systems. This guide explains **why the upgrade matters, how to do it safely, and what to expect after upgrading**. ## What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade from QuickBooks Pro 2017? Continuing with QuickBooks Pro 2017 can result in: * ❌ Payroll and tax table updates stopped * ❌ Online banking and payment services disabled * ❌ Increased risk of data corruption * ❌ Frequent crashes after Windows updates * ❌ No Intuit support for errors or file issues **Expert Insight:** QuickBooks experts recommend upgrading versions older than three years to maintain data integrity and service continuity. ## Benefits of Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020 Upgrading from Pro 2017 to **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020** provides important benefits: * ✅ Faster performance and improved responsiveness * ✅ Better compatibility with Windows 10 (64-bit) * ✅ Enhanced reporting and search functionality * ✅ Reduced crashes and company file errors * ✅ More stable single-user and multi-user mode Although newer versions are available today, 2020 remains a **significant upgrade from 2017**. ## Can You Upgrade QuickBooks Pro 2017 to 2020 for Free? ### Is a Free Upgrade Available? **No.** QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020 requires: * A valid **license and product number** * A paid purchase unless you already own Pro 2020 ### What Is Free? * Company file conversion from 2017 to 2020 * Data migration during the upgrade process > **Important:** > The **software itself requires a license**, but **your data upgrade is free**. ## What to Do Before Upgrading QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017? ### 1. Check System Requirements Ensure your system meets minimum requirements: * Windows 8.1 or Windows 10 (64-bit recommended) * Minimum 4 GB RAM (8 GB recommended) * 2.5 GB free disk space * Stable internet connection ### 2. Back Up Your Company File (Critical Step) 1. Open **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017** 2. Go to **File > Back Up Company > Create Local Backup** 3. Save the backup to an external drive or secure cloud storage ### 3. Update QuickBooks Pro 2017 * Click **Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop** * Install the latest updates before upgrading ## How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020? ### Step 1: Purchase QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020 Choose the Pro edition if your business needs basic accounting features like invoicing, expenses, and standard reports. ### Step 2: Download and Install QuickBooks Pro 2020 1. Download the installer 2. Right-click and select **Run as Administrator** 3. Follow on-screen installation instructions ### Step 3: Open and Upgrade Your Company File 1. Launch **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020** 2. Go to **File > Open or Restore Company** 3. Select your **QuickBooks Pro 2017 company file** QuickBooks will **automatically convert your file to the 2020 format**. ### Step 4: Verify and Rebuild Data * Go to **File > Utilities > Verify Data** * If errors appear, select **Rebuild Data** ## Common Upgrade Issues and How to Fix Them ### Upgrade Freezes or Fails **Fix:** * Temporarily disable antivirus software * Install QuickBooks using Selective Startup mode ### Company File Won’t Open After Upgrade **Fix:** * Restore a verified backup * Run QuickBooks File Doctor ### Multi-User Mode Errors **Fix:** * Update Database Server Manager * Reconfigure firewall and hosting settings ## Real Example: Pro 2017 to Pro 2020 Upgrade **Scenario:** A small consulting firm using QuickBooks Pro 2017 experienced slow performance and frequent crashes. **Solution:** * Backed up company data * Installed QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020 * Verified and rebuilt the company file **Results:** * Improved system stability * Faster reporting and navigation * Reduced error messages ## Best Practices for a Smooth QuickBooks Upgrade * ✔ Upgrade on a **local workstation first** * ✔ Keep **multiple backups** before and after upgrade * ✔ Avoid upgrading over a network * ✔ Test invoices, reports, and payroll features * ✔ Update all computers in multi-user environments ### Upgrade QuickBooks Pro 2017 to 2020 with Confidence 📞 **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 Pro 2017 to 2020? Yes. Direct upgrades are supported, and your company file will convert automatically. ### Will upgrading delete my data? No, as long as you create a backup before starting. ### How long does the upgrade process take? * Small files: 20–30 minutes * Large files: 1–2 hours ### Do I need to uninstall QuickBooks Pro 2017? No. You can keep older versions installed, but only one version should host multi-user mode. ### Is QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020 still supported? Support depends on Intuit’s lifecycle policy, but it is significantly more stable than 2017. ## Conclusion Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2017 to 2020** is an important step toward restoring performance, improving compatibility, and reducing data risks. Delaying the upgrade can lead to **errors, crashes, and service interruptions**. 📞 **Call QuickBooks Upgrade Specialists Today: 866-593-4750** > Upgrade confidently and keep your accounting system running smoothly.