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How to Fix QuickBooks Update Error 1625 - Installation Forbidden by System Policy

· 3 min read
Debits

Introduction​

QuickBooks Update Error 1625 typically occurs when a system policy restricts software installation. This error can prevent you from updating or installing QuickBooks, disrupting your business operations. This guide provides a step-by-step process to troubleshoot and resolve Error 1625 in QuickBooks.

Understanding Error 1625​

Error 1625 usually appears with a message stating, "This installation is forbidden by system policy." Common causes include:

  • User Permissions: Insufficient administrative privileges.
  • Group Policy Settings: Restrictions set by the system administrator.
  • Windows Installer Issues: Problems with the Windows Installer.

Steps to Resolve QuickBooks Error 1625​

Step 1: Run QuickBooks as Administrator​

  1. Close QuickBooks: Ensure QuickBooks is not running.
  2. Right-Click Icon: Right-click the QuickBooks icon on your desktop.
  3. Select Run as Administrator: Choose Run as Administrator from the context menu.
  4. Confirm Prompt: If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes to allow QuickBooks to make changes to your computer.
  5. Retry Update: Try updating QuickBooks again.

Step 2: Modify User Account Control Settings​

  1. Open Control Panel: Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > User Accounts.
  2. Change UAC Settings: Click on Change User Account Control settings.
  3. Adjust Slider: Move the slider to Never notify and click OK.
  4. Restart Your Computer: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
  5. Retry Update: Open QuickBooks and try updating again.

Step 3: Edit Group Policy Settings​

  1. Open Run Dialog: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Enter gpedit.msc: Type gpedit.msc and press Enter to open the Local Group Policy Editor.
  3. Navigate to Policies: Go to Computer Configuration > Administrative Templates > Windows Components > Windows Installer.
  4. Configure Setting: Double-click on Prohibit User Installs, select Disabled, and click Apply and OK.
  5. Restart Your Computer: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
  6. Retry Update: Open QuickBooks and try updating again.

Step 4: Modify Windows Registry​

Note: Modifying the Windows Registry can cause serious problems if done incorrectly. It is recommended to back up the registry before proceeding.

  1. Open Run Dialog: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Enter regedit: Type regedit and press Enter to open the Registry Editor.
  3. Navigate to Key: Go to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Policies\Microsoft\Windows\Installer.
  4. Modify Registry Value: Find the DisableMSI key. If it exists, double-click it and change the value data to 0.
  5. Restart Your Computer: Restart your computer to apply the changes.
  6. Retry Update: Open QuickBooks and try updating again.

Step 5: Check Windows Installer Settings​

  1. Open Services: Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Locate Windows Installer: Scroll down and find Windows Installer.
  3. Restart Service: Right-click Windows Installer and select Restart.
  4. Retry Update: Open QuickBooks and try updating again.

Best Practices to Prevent Future Errors​

  • Regular Updates: Keep QuickBooks and your operating system updated to the latest versions.
  • Administrator Rights: Ensure you have administrative rights when installing or updating software.
  • Group Policy Management: Regularly review and manage group policies to prevent conflicts.
  • Backup Data: Regularly back up your QuickBooks data to avoid data loss.

Conclusion​

QuickBooks Update Error 1625 can be a significant obstacle, but by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. Ensuring proper permissions, maintaining regular updates, and managing group policies will help prevent future errors, allowing you to manage your financial data seamlessly.