Skip to main content

How to Fix QuickBooks Error Code 1406

· 7 min read
Debits

Introduction​

QuickBooks Error Code 1406 is an installation error that typically occurs when you're installing or updating QuickBooks Desktop on your system. The error message usually states: "Error 1406: Could not write value to key", indicating that there is a problem with the permissions required to write data to specific system files or the Windows registry. This error prevents QuickBooks from installing correctly and can interrupt critical updates.

Resolving QuickBooks Error 1406 is crucial to ensure your accounting software functions smoothly. In this guide, we’ll cover the possible causes and detailed steps you can take to fix QuickBooks Error 1406.

Causes of QuickBooks Error Code 1406​

Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of Error Code 1406, including:

  1. Insufficient Administrative Permissions: The most common cause of this error is a lack of necessary permissions to modify the system files or registry.
  2. Windows Registry Corruption: If the Windows registry is corrupted, it may block QuickBooks from installing or updating correctly.
  3. Antivirus or Firewall Blocking: Third-party antivirus software or firewall settings may prevent QuickBooks from accessing certain files during installation.
  4. Corrupt QuickBooks Installer: If the QuickBooks installer file is damaged or incomplete, it may lead to installation issues.
  5. Outdated or Incompatible Operating System: Using an outdated or unsupported version of Windows can cause problems when installing or updating QuickBooks.

Step 1: Run QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool​

The first step to fix Error 1406 is to run the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool. This tool is specifically designed to detect and fix issues related to QuickBooks installation errors.

1.1: Download and Run the Install Diagnostic Tool​

  1. Download the Tool: Go to the Intuit support site and download the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Install QuickBooks Tool Hub: Once the download is complete, open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install the Tool Hub.
  3. Open the Tool Hub: After installation, launch QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  4. Run Install Diagnostic Tool: From the Tool Hub, select the Installation Issues tab and click on QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool. Let the tool run—this can take up to 20 minutes.

1.2: Restart Your System​

After the tool completes its scan, restart your computer. This ensures that any fixes applied by the tool take effect. Try to install or update QuickBooks again to check if the error is resolved.

Step 2: Update Windows and System Drivers​

Running an outdated version of Windows can cause compatibility issues with QuickBooks installation. Updating your Windows operating system and system drivers can often resolve the error.

2.1: Update Windows​

  1. Go to Settings > Update & Security: In Windows, open the Settings menu, then click on Update & Security.
  2. Check for Updates: Click Check for updates. If updates are available, download and install them.
  3. Restart Your Computer: Once the updates are installed, restart your computer.

2.2: Update Drivers​

If you are experiencing issues with system components during installation, updating your drivers can help. You can use Device Manager to update drivers for components like your display, audio, and network.

  1. Open Device Manager: Right-click the Start menu and select Device Manager.
  2. Locate the Driver to Update: Right-click on a device, such as Display adapters, and select Update driver.
  3. Search for Updates: Choose Search automatically for updated driver software. If updates are found, install them.

Once all updates are complete, try installing or updating QuickBooks again.

Step 3: Modify Windows User Account Control (UAC) Settings​

The User Account Control (UAC) settings in Windows can sometimes block QuickBooks from installing certain components, leading to Error 1406. Temporarily disabling UAC can help resolve the issue.

3.1: Disable UAC​

  1. Open Control Panel: Go to the Windows Control Panel.
  2. Click on User Accounts: Under the User Accounts section, select Change User Account Control settings.
  3. Lower the Slider: In the UAC settings window, move the slider to Never notify.
  4. Click OK: Confirm the changes and close the window.
  5. Restart Your Computer: After disabling UAC, restart your computer and attempt the QuickBooks installation or update again.

Note: After successfully installing QuickBooks, it is recommended to re-enable UAC for security purposes by moving the slider back to its original position.

Step 4: Adjust Windows Registry Permissions​

Error 1406 can occur if the QuickBooks installer is unable to write to specific keys in the Windows registry. Adjusting the permissions in the registry can resolve this issue.

4.1: Edit Registry Permissions​

  1. Press Windows + R: Open the Run dialog box by pressing Windows + R on your keyboard.
  2. Type regedit: In the Run dialog, type regedit and press Enter. This will open the Windows Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to the Key: Use the navigation pane to find the key that was mentioned in the error message (if one was provided).
  4. Right-Click the Key: Right-click on the key and select Permissions.
  5. Edit Permissions: In the Permissions window, ensure that Everyone or the user account running the installer has Full Control. If not, click Advanced to adjust the permissions.
  6. Apply Changes: After making the changes, click Apply and OK.

4.2: Restart and Retry Installation​

After adjusting the registry permissions, restart your computer and attempt the QuickBooks installation again.

Warning: Modifying the Windows registry can cause serious system issues if not done correctly. Always back up your registry before making changes.

Step 5: Disable Third-Party Security Software​

Third-party antivirus programs or firewalls can sometimes block QuickBooks installations. Temporarily disabling your security software may help resolve QuickBooks Error 1406.

5.1: Disable Antivirus Software​

  1. Locate Your Antivirus Program: Open your antivirus program (e.g., Norton, McAfee, Avast).
  2. Disable Real-Time Protection: Find the option to temporarily disable Real-Time Protection or Firewall.
  3. Confirm Disabling: Follow the prompts to disable the antivirus for a limited period (usually 15-30 minutes).

5.2: Retry QuickBooks Installation​

While your antivirus or firewall is disabled, attempt to install or update QuickBooks again. If the installation completes successfully, re-enable your security software immediately afterward to protect your system.

Step 6: Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks​

If none of the above steps work, performing a clean installation of QuickBooks may be necessary to resolve the error. A clean install ensures that no corrupted files from previous installations interfere with the new one.

6.1: Uninstall QuickBooks​

  1. Go to Control Panel: Open the Control Panel, then select Programs and Features.
  2. Find QuickBooks: Locate QuickBooks in the list of installed programs.
  3. Uninstall: Right-click on QuickBooks and select Uninstall. Follow the prompts to remove QuickBooks from your system.

6.2: Run QuickBooks Clean Install Tool​

  1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub: If you haven’t already, download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Run Clean Install Tool: In the Tool Hub, select Installation Issues, then click on Clean Install Tool. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove any residual QuickBooks files from your system.

6.3: Reinstall QuickBooks​

  1. Download the Latest Version of QuickBooks: Visit the QuickBooks website and download the latest version of the software.
  2. Install QuickBooks: Run the installer and follow the prompts to reinstall QuickBooks on your system.

Conclusion​

QuickBooks Error Code 1406 can be a frustrating issue that prevents you from installing or updating the software. However, by following the steps outlined in this guide—such as running the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool, adjusting permissions, and updating your system—you can effectively resolve the error and ensure a successful installation.

If the problem persists even after trying these steps, it may be beneficial to consult a QuickBooks expert or reach out to Intuit support for further assistance.

For more QuickBooks tips and troubleshooting resources, explore additional guides and tutorials to help you keep your accounting software running smoothly.