Skip to main content

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 1911

· 6 min read
Debits

Introduction​

QuickBooks Error 1911 typically occurs during the installation or update of QuickBooks Desktop. The error arises when QuickBooks is unable to register a .DLL (Dynamic Link Library) file. It may also occur due to insufficient permissions, damaged installation files, or conflicts with third-party programs. The error message often states:
"Error 1911: Could not register type library for file C:...DLL"

Resolving this error is essential to ensure that QuickBooks is installed or updated properly and functions without interruptions. This guide will help you identify the causes of Error 1911 and provide detailed steps to fix it.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 1911​

  1. Corrupted or Missing .DLL Files: The required .DLL files for installation are missing or damaged.
  2. Lack of Administrative Privileges: Insufficient permissions to install or update QuickBooks.
  3. Interference from Third-Party Programs: Antivirus or other software may block the installation process.
  4. Corrupted QuickBooks Installation File: The installer file may be damaged or incomplete.
  5. Windows System File Issues: Damaged or missing Windows system files may interfere with the installation.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 1911​

  • QuickBooks installation fails with the error message “Error 1911.”
  • The software crashes during installation or update.
  • The system slows down or becomes unresponsive during the installation process.
  • Error messages related to .DLL file registration appear on the screen.

Steps to Fix QuickBooks Error 1911​

Step 1: Run the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool​

The QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool can automatically identify and resolve issues related to QuickBooks installation.

  1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub:
    • Visit the official Intuit website and download the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Run the Install Diagnostic Tool:
    • Open Tool Hub and navigate to the Installation Issues tab.
    • Select QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool and let it scan for issues.
  3. Restart Your Computer:
    • After the tool completes the repair, restart your system.
  4. Retry the Installation:
    • Attempt to install or update QuickBooks again.

Step 2: Run QuickBooks as an Administrator​

Running QuickBooks with administrative privileges can resolve permission-related issues.

  1. Right-Click on the Installer:
    • Locate the QuickBooks installer file on your computer.
    • Right-click on the file and select Run as Administrator.
  2. Follow On-Screen Instructions:
    • Complete the installation process and check if the error persists.

Step 3: Disable Antivirus and Firewall Temporarily​

Your antivirus or firewall may block QuickBooks from registering .DLL files during installation.

  1. Disable Antivirus:
    • Open your antivirus software and temporarily turn it off.
  2. Turn Off Windows Firewall:
    • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
    • Select Turn Windows Defender Firewall On or Off.
    • Turn off the firewall for both private and public networks.
  3. Retry Installation:
    • Install or update QuickBooks again.
  4. Re-enable Security Features:
    • Once the installation is complete, turn your antivirus and firewall back on.

Step 4: Manually Register .DLL Files​

If the error mentions a specific .DLL file, manually registering the file can resolve the issue.

  1. Open Command Prompt:
    • Press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
  2. Run as Administrator:
    • Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as Administrator.
  3. Register the .DLL File:
    • Type the following command and press Enter: 
      regsvr32 C:\path_to_file\filename.dll
    • Replace path_to_file and filename.dll with the actual path and file name mentioned in the error message.
  4. Restart Your System:
    • Restart your computer and retry the installation.

Step 5: Perform a Clean Installation of QuickBooks​

If the error persists, performing a clean installation of QuickBooks can resolve it.

5.1: Uninstall QuickBooks​

  1. Open Control Panel:
    • Navigate to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
  2. Uninstall QuickBooks:
    • Locate QuickBooks Desktop in the list of installed programs and click Uninstall/Change.
  3. Follow Prompts:
    • Complete the uninstallation process.

5.2: Use QuickBooks Clean Install Tool​

  1. Open QuickBooks Tool Hub:
    • Navigate to the Installation Issues tab.
  2. Run the Clean Install Tool:
    • Select Clean Install Tool and follow the prompts to remove all residual QuickBooks files.

5.3: Reinstall QuickBooks​

  1. Download the Installer:
    • Visit the Intuit website and download the latest version of QuickBooks.
  2. Run the Installer:
    • Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall QuickBooks.

Step 6: Update Windows​

An outdated operating system can cause compatibility issues during the QuickBooks installation process.

  1. Check for Windows Updates:
    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update.
    • Click Check for Updates.
  2. Install Updates:
    • Download and install any available updates for your system.
  3. Restart Your Computer:
    • Restart your system after the updates are installed.
  4. Retry QuickBooks Installation:
    • Attempt to install or update QuickBooks again.

Step 7: Repair Windows Components​

Issues with Windows components like .NET Framework, MSXML, or C++ may trigger Error 1911.

  1. Repair .NET Framework:
    • Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
    • Select .NET Framework, click Uninstall/Change, and choose Repair.
  2. Repair MSXML:
    • Download and install the latest version of MSXML from Microsoft’s website.
  3. Repair Microsoft Visual C++:
    • Locate Visual C++ in the list of installed programs and click Repair.

Step 8: Contact QuickBooks Support​

If the error persists after trying all the steps above, you may need expert assistance.

  1. Visit QuickBooks Support:
  2. Provide Error Details:
    • Share the exact error message and steps you’ve already tried.
  3. Follow Guidance:
    • The support team will provide additional troubleshooting or escalate the issue.

Additional Tips​

  • Run as Administrator: Always run QuickBooks and its installer with administrative privileges to avoid permission issues.
  • Backup Data: Before performing any major changes, back up your QuickBooks company files to avoid data loss.
  • Check System Requirements: Ensure your system meets the minimum requirements for the QuickBooks version you are installing.

Conclusion​

QuickBooks Error 1911 can disrupt the installation or update process, but with the solutions provided in this guide, you can resolve the issue effectively. From running the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool to performing a clean installation, these steps address the most common causes of the error.

If the problem persists, consider reaching out to QuickBooks Support or consulting an IT professional for further assistance.