Fix QuickBooks Error 6073, 816 – Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Solutions

QuickBooks is one of the most reliable accounting programs used by small and medium-sized businesses for bookkeeping, payroll management, invoicing, and financial reporting. However, technical errors can occur from time to time, interrupting workflow and causing inconvenience. One such issue that many users encounter is QuickBooks Error 6073, 816.

This error commonly occurs when a company file is being accessed inappropriately, such as when it’s open in single-user mode on another computer or when there are permission or network-related conflicts. In this detailed guide, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, and multiple proven solutions to fix QuickBooks Error 6073, 816 effectively and prevent it from happening again.

What Is QuickBooks Error 6073, 816?

QuickBooks Error 6073, 816 appears when QuickBooks Desktop fails to open a company file located on a network or server. The error message typically reads:

“QuickBooks is unable to open the company file. It may have been opened by another user. Error Codes: (-6073, -816).”

This error prevents access to your financial data and may cause temporary downtime, especially if multiple users rely on the same company file. It usually occurs in a multi-user setup, where multiple employees or departments access the same QuickBooks file simultaneously.

Primary Causes of QuickBooks Error 6073, 816

Several factors can trigger this error. Understanding them helps in identifying the right solution:

1. File in Use in Single-User Mode:
   The most common reason for this error is that the company file is already open on another computer in single-user mode.
2. Remote Access Software Conflicts:
   Applications like TeamViewer, LogMeIn, or GoToMyPC can lock the file, preventing other users from accessing it.
3. Damaged or Corrupted Company File:
   If the company file (.QBW) or its associated folder is damaged or corrupted, QuickBooks might fail to read it properly.
4. Improper Network Setup or Folder Permissions:
   When users don’t have the necessary read/write permissions to the network folder containing the company file, the error can appear.
5. File Stored on a Read-Only Drive or External Device:
   Attempting to access the company file from a location that is not writable (e.g., USB drive, read-only server folder) can lead to this issue.
6. Firewall or Security Restrictions:
   Sometimes, antivirus or firewall settings block QuickBooks from connecting to the network, causing this access issue.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6073, 816

Recognizing the symptoms early helps minimize data loss and system disruption. Common signs include:

• QuickBooks freezes or crashes when opening the company file.
• The company file refuses to open or loads very slowly.
• You receive repeated pop-up messages displaying error codes 6073, 816.
• The system performance becomes sluggish when using QuickBooks.
• Users on the same network cannot access the file simultaneously.

Step-by-Step Methods to Fix QuickBooks Error 6073, 816

Below are several troubleshooting methods to resolve the error depending on its root cause.

Solution 1: Run the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool

The QuickBooks File Doctor is designed to automatically diagnose and repair common company file and network issues.

1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub (latest version from Intuit).
2. Open Tool Hub and go to Company File Issues.
3. Select Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
4. Choose your company file and click Check your file (network and file issues).
5. Allow the tool to scan and repair detected issues.

Once the process completes, reopen QuickBooks and check if the error is resolved.

Solution 2: Ensure File Is Not Open in Single-User Mode

If the file is already open on another workstation in single-user mode, you need to close it properly.

1. Ask all users to close the company file.
2. On the main host system, open QuickBooks and go to File → Switch to Multi-User Mode.
3. Reopen the file from another computer to confirm the issue is fixed.

Solution 3: Rename the Network Data (.ND) and Transaction Log (.TLG) Files

Corrupted network configuration files can also cause Error 6073, 816.

1. Open the folder containing your company file.
2. Locate the files with the same name as your company file but extensions .ND and .TLG.
   Example:
   • companyname.qbw.nd
   • companyname.qbw.tlg
3. Right-click each file and rename them by adding .old to the end (e.g., companyname.qbw.nd.old).
4. Open QuickBooks again to recreate fresh .ND and .TLG files automatically.

Solution 4: Check Folder and File Permissions

Improper access rights often cause this issue, especially in shared environments.

1. Locate the folder containing the company file.
2. Right-click it and select Properties → Security Tab.
3. Ensure that all QuickBooks users have Full Control permissions.
4. Apply the changes and restart QuickBooks on all workstations.

Solution 5: Verify Hosting Settings on All Systems

Incorrect hosting settings can prevent users from accessing the file simultaneously.

• On each workstation, open QuickBooks → File → Utilities.
• If you see Host Multi-User Access, don’t select it (it means hosting is off, which is correct for workstations).
• Only the server computer should have Host Multi-User Access enabled.

Solution 6: Repair a Damaged Company File

If the company file is corrupted, use QuickBooks built-in repair tools.

1. Open QuickBooks → File → Utilities → Verify Data.
2. If QuickBooks detects an issue, select Rebuild Data.
3. Follow the on-screen steps to complete the process.

Alternatively, restore a recent backup of the company file if available.

Solution 7: Check for Remote Access Software Conflicts

If remote desktop or third-party applications are in use, they might lock the company file.

1. End all active remote sessions using software like TeamViewer or LogMeIn.
2. Reopen QuickBooks locally on the main computer.
3. Try accessing the company file again to confirm resolution.

Solution 8: Update QuickBooks and Windows

Running outdated software can lead to compatibility issues.

• Open QuickBooks → Help → Update QuickBooks Desktop.
• Install all available updates and restart your system.
• Also, check for pending Windows updates and complete them.

Preventive Tips to Avoid Error 6073, 816 in the Future

1. Always use Multi-User Mode when accessing a shared company file.
2. Maintain regular backups of your QuickBooks data.
3. Keep QuickBooks and Windows updated to their latest versions.
4. Avoid remote file access while someone else is using QuickBooks.
5. Check folder permissions regularly to ensure all authorized users have full access.
6. Use a reliable network connection and store the file on a dedicated server.

When to Seek Professional Help

If none of the above methods resolve the issue, it might indicate deeper corruption in your company file or complex network setup problems. In such cases, contacting a QuickBooks professional or reaching out to ErrorCodeExperts is the best option. Their certified experts can perform advanced diagnosis and repair to get your QuickBooks running smoothly again without risking data loss.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 6073, 816 can be frustrating, especially in a multi-user environment where seamless access is crucial. However, by understanding its causes—such as file permissions, network issues, or improper hosting—and following the solutions outlined above, you can fix the issue effectively.

Whether you’re a small business owner or an accounting professional, maintaining your QuickBooks setup correctly ensures smooth and secure financial management. For expert assistance or advanced troubleshooting, contact ErrorCodeExperts—your trusted partner for resolving QuickBooks errors swiftly and efficiently.

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