# Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2017 to 2020: Step-by-Step Guide

Upgrade QuickBooks Pro Plus from 2017 to 2020 and unlock a suite of enhanced features designed to streamline your accounting processes. Experience improved performance, advanced reporting capabilities, and a more intuitive user interface that simplifies financial management.
## Why Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2017 to 2020?

If your business is still using **QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2017**, you’re relying on software that **Intuit no longer supports**. This means **no security updates, no payroll services, and no technical assistance**, putting your accounting data at risk.
## **Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2017 to 2020**
Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2017 to 2020** ensures better performance, enhanced security, and compatibility with modern Windows systems. This article covers **why upgrading matters, how to do it safely, and tips for a smooth transition**.

## What Happens If You Don’t Upgrade QuickBooks Pro Plus 2017?

Continuing to use Pro Plus 2017 can lead to:

* ❌ Payroll and tax table updates stopped
* ❌ Online banking and payment services disabled
* ❌ Increased risk of data corruption and security issues
* ❌ Frequent crashes on newer Windows versions
* ❌ No Intuit support for errors or technical problems

**Expert Insight:**
Accounting specialists recommend upgrading older QuickBooks versions every 2–3 years to ensure data integrity and uninterrupted business operations.

## Benefits of Upgrading to QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2020

Upgrading from Pro Plus 2017 to **QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2020** offers significant advantages:

* ✅ Improved speed and stability
* ✅ Better compatibility with Windows 10 (64-bit)
* ✅ Enhanced reporting and search features
* ✅ Reduced crashes and file errors
* ✅ More reliable multi-user performance

> Even though QuickBooks 2020 is older than the latest version, it is **much more stable and secure than 2017**.

## Can You Upgrade QuickBooks Pro Plus 2017 to 2020 for Free?

### Is a Free Upgrade Available?

**No.**

QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2020 requires:

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

### What Is Free?

* Conversion of your **company file from 2017 to 2020**
* Migration of data during the upgrade process

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

## Steps to Take Before Upgrading QuickBooks Pro Plus 2017

### 1. Check System Requirements

Make sure your computer meets 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 Plus 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 2017

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

## How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2017 to 2020?

### Step 1: Purchase QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2020

Choose the correct edition based on your business needs.

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

1. Download the QuickBooks Desktop 2020 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 Plus 2020**
2. Go to **File > Open or Restore Company**
3. Select your **Pro Plus 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 are detected, select **Rebuild Data**

## Common Upgrade Issues and Fixes

### 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: Pro Plus 2017 to 2020 Upgrade

**Scenario:**
A small retail business using Pro Plus 2017 faced payroll failures and frequent crashes.

**Solution:**

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

**Results:**

* Payroll restored
* Faster report generation
* Improved system stability

## 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 upgrading
* ✔ Update all workstations in multi-user environments

## 📞 Get 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 Pro Plus 2017 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 create a backup before upgrading.

### How long does the upgrade take?

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

### Do I need to uninstall QuickBooks Pro Plus 2017?

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

### Is QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2020 still supported?

Support depends on Intuit’s lifecycle policy, but it is **much more stable and secure than 2017**.

## Conclusion

Upgrading **QuickBooks Desktop Pro Plus 2017 to 2020** restores system stability, improves 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.