--- # System prepended metadata title: 'Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2018 to 2020: Latest Version' tags: [Upgrade your QuickBooks Desktop Pro from 2018 to 2020] --- # Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2018 to 2020: Step-by-Step Guide ![Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop](https://hackmd.io/_uploads/H1mJr8LBbl.png) 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.