How to Host QuickBooks Company Files in Multi-User Mode
Qbsenterprisesupport
QuickBooks Desktop allows multiple users to work on the same company file simultaneously through multi-user mode. Hosting your company file correctly ensures smooth collaboration and efficient workflow.
Hosting refers to the system storing the company file and allowing other users on the network to access it. QuickBooks uses a service for this, which differs by version (e.g., QuickBooksDB34 for 2024, QuickBooksDB33 for 2023).
Multiple users can access one company file simultaneously
Reduces duplicate data entry and errors
Supports remote access with proper network setup
Dedicated Hosting – A server hosts the file and allows secure access to multiple users.
Peer-to-Peer Hosting – A workstation shares the file with other users over the network.
Alternate Hosting – Both server and workstations access the file via managed network configuration.
Windows File Permissions – Users need Full Control on the company file folder.
Database Server – Must be able to open the company file successfully.
QuickBooks Login – Valid credentials for each user.
Open QuickBooks as an Administrator
Go to File > Switch to Multi-User Mode
Select File > Utilities > Host Multi-User Access and confirm
Keep QuickBooks Desktop updated
Use a dedicated server for optimal performance
Check .ND files in the company file folder for server communication
Backup files regularly
Hosting Local Files Only – Hosts local files; supports multi-user via TCP/IP
Not Hosting – Multi-user mode not supported; only local access
Hosting Local and Remote Files – Hosts local files and accesses remote files simultaneously
Enabling multi-user mode ensures your team can work efficiently without conflicts while accessing the same QuickBooks company file.