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

If your business is still using **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2018**, you may experience **limited support from Intuit**, such as no payroll updates, no tax table updates, and no online banking support.

## **Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2018 to 2020**

Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2018 to 2020** ensures **better stability, faster performance, enhanced security**, and compatibility with modern Windows systems. This guide explains **why the upgrade is important, how to do it safely, and what steps to follow** for a smooth transition.

## Risks of Staying on QuickBooks Pro 2018

Continuing to use QuickBooks Pro 2018 can lead to:

* ❌ Payroll and tax updates no longer available
* ❌ Online banking and payment features disabled
* ❌ Increased risk of data corruption
* ❌ Frequent crashes on Windows 10 or newer
* ❌ Limited Intuit support for errors and technical issues

**Expert Insight:**
Most accounting specialists recommend upgrading QuickBooks every 2–3 years to maintain data integrity, security, and uninterrupted business operations.

## Benefits of Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020

Upgrading from Pro 2018 to **QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020** provides the following advantages:

* ✅ Faster performance and smoother navigation
* ✅ Improved Windows 10 (64-bit) compatibility
* ✅ Enhanced reporting and search functionality
* ✅ Reduced crashes and company file errors
* ✅ More reliable single-user and multi-user performance

> Even though newer versions exist today, 2020 is **a significant improvement over 2018** in both speed and security.

## Can You Upgrade QuickBooks Pro 2018 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 2018 to 2020
* Data migration during the upgrade process

> **Important:**
> The software license is required, but **your data conversion is free**.

## Preparations Before Upgrading QuickBooks Pro 2018

### 1. Check System Requirements

Ensure your computer meets the 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 Pro 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 Pro 2018 to 2020

### Step 1: Purchase QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2020

Choose the edition based on your business needs:

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

### Step 2: Download and Install QuickBooks Pro 2020

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

### 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 **2018 company file**

QuickBooks will **automatically convert your company file to 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
* Use QuickBooks File Doctor

### Multi-User Mode Errors

**Fix:**

* Update Database Server Manager
* Reconfigure firewall and hosting settings

## Real Example: QuickBooks Pro 2018 to 2020 Upgrade

**Scenario:**
A small consulting business using QuickBooks 2018 experienced payroll and reporting issues.

**Solution:**

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

**Results:**

* Payroll and reporting issues resolved
* Faster system performance
* Reduced crashes and errors

## Best Practices for a Smooth Upgrade

* ✔ Upgrade on a **local computer first**
* ✔ Keep **multiple backups**
* ✔ Avoid upgrading over a network
* ✔ Test payroll, invoices, and reports after upgrade
* ✔ Update all computers in multi-user environments

### Upgrade QuickBooks Pro 2018 to 2020

📞 **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 2018 to 2020?

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

### Will upgrading delete my data?

No, as long as you create a backup before upgrading.

### How long does the upgrade process take?

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

### Do I need to uninstall QuickBooks Pro 2018?

No. You can keep it 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 **much more stable and secure than 2018**.

## Conclusion

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

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

> Upgrade confidently and keep your accounting system running smoothly.