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How to Fix QuickBooks Error Code 6175

· 6 min read
Debits

Introduction​

QuickBooks Error Code 6175 occurs when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to access the company file hosted on the server. This error often arises in multi-user mode when the database server is not running properly, or communication between QuickBooks and the server is disrupted. The error message typically states:
"QuickBooks is trying to access the company file, but the database server is not responding."

This guide explains the common causes of Error 6175 and provides step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

Causes of QuickBooks Error Code 6175​

  1. QuickBooks Database Server Not Running: The QuickBooks Database Server Manager may not be active on the host system.
  2. Firewall Blocking Communication: Firewall or antivirus settings may restrict QuickBooks from accessing the server.
  3. Incorrect Hosting Configuration: Hosting may be incorrectly set up, leading to communication errors.
  4. Server Overload: The server hosting the company file may be overloaded or running too many processes.
  5. Corrupted Company File: A damaged company file can trigger this error.
  6. Network Connection Issues: Unstable or weak network connections may disrupt QuickBooks' ability to access the company file.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error Code 6175​

  • QuickBooks fails to open the company file in multi-user mode.
  • Error message displayed: "Error Code 6175: QuickBooks is unable to access the company file."
  • QuickBooks becomes unresponsive or crashes.
  • Users cannot switch to multi-user mode.

Steps to Fix QuickBooks Error Code 6175​

Step 1: Verify Hosting Configuration​

Ensure that only the server computer is set to host multi-user mode.

  1. Check Hosting on the Server Computer:
    • Open QuickBooks Desktop on the server computer.
    • Go to File > Utilities.
    • Ensure Host Multi-User Access is enabled. If it says Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, hosting is already enabled, and no changes are needed.
  2. Check Hosting on Workstations:
    • Open QuickBooks Desktop on all workstations.
    • Go to File > Utilities.
    • Ensure Host Multi-User Access is not enabled. If it says Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, select it to disable hosting on the workstation.

Step 2: Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager​

The QuickBooks Database Server Manager ensures that company files can be accessed in multi-user mode.

  1. Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager:
    • Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
    • Look for QuickBooksDBXX (where XX is the QuickBooks version year).
  2. Restart the Service:
    • Right-click on QuickBooksDBXX and select Restart.
  3. Re-scan Company Files:
    • Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager from the server.
    • Go to the folder containing your company file and click Scan.
  4. Retry Opening the File:
    • Open QuickBooks on the workstation and try accessing the company file again.

Step 3: Configure Firewall and Antivirus Settings​

Your firewall or antivirus may block QuickBooks from accessing the server. Adding exceptions can resolve this issue.

  1. Add Firewall Exceptions:
    • Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
    • Select Advanced Settings.
    • Add inbound and outbound rules for the following QuickBooks files:
      • QBDBMgrN.exe
      • QBCFMonitorService.exe
      • QuickBooksW32.exe
  2. Allow QuickBooks Ports:
    • Add the required ports for your QuickBooks version:
      • QuickBooks 2023: Port 8019, 5530, 5533
      • QuickBooks 2022 and earlier: Port 8019, 5530
  3. Temporarily Disable Antivirus:
    • Turn off your antivirus software and check if the error is resolved. Re-enable it after troubleshooting.

Step 4: Use QuickBooks File Doctor​

QuickBooks File Doctor can repair issues with the company file and network setup.

  1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub:
    • Visit the official Intuit website and download the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Run QuickBooks File Doctor:
    • Open Tool Hub and go to the Company File Issues tab.
    • Select QuickBooks File Doctor and browse for your company file.
    • Allow the tool to scan and repair issues.
  3. Retry Access:
    • Open QuickBooks and try accessing the company file again.

Step 5: Verify Network Connectivity​

Ensure that your network connection is stable and functioning properly.

  1. Ping the Server Computer:
    • On the workstation, press Windows + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
    • Type ping [Server Name] and press Enter. Replace [Server Name] with the name of your server computer.
    • If you receive a response, the server is reachable. If not, troubleshoot your network connection.
  2. Check Network Devices:
    • Restart your router or modem to refresh the connection.
    • Ensure all devices are connected to the same network.

Step 6: Repair QuickBooks Installation​

A corrupted QuickBooks installation can cause Error 6175. Repairing the software may help.

  1. Open Control Panel:
    • Navigate to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
  2. Locate QuickBooks Desktop:
    • Select QuickBooks and click Uninstall/Change.
  3. Choose Repair Option:
    • In the QuickBooks installation window, select Repair and follow the on-screen instructions.
  4. Restart Your System:
    • After the repair is complete, restart your computer and open QuickBooks.

Step 7: Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks​

If the error persists, performing a clean install of QuickBooks may resolve the issue.

  1. Uninstall QuickBooks:
    • Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
    • Select QuickBooks and click Uninstall.
  2. Download Clean Install Tool:
    • Open QuickBooks Tool Hub and select Installation Issues.
    • Use the Clean Install Tool to remove all QuickBooks files.
  3. Reinstall QuickBooks:
    • Download the latest QuickBooks installer from Intuit and follow the prompts to reinstall.

Step 8: Contact QuickBooks Support​

If none of the above solutions resolve the error, you may need assistance from QuickBooks support.

  1. Visit Intuit Support:
  2. Provide Error Details:
    • Share the error code and troubleshooting steps you've already tried.
  3. Follow Guidance:
    • QuickBooks support will provide advanced troubleshooting assistance.

Additional Tips to Prevent Error 6175​

  • Keep QuickBooks Updated: Regularly update QuickBooks Desktop to the latest version.
  • Maintain a Stable Network: Use a reliable network to avoid disruptions in multi-user mode.
  • Back Up Your Company File: Create regular backups to protect your data.
  • Use a Dedicated Server: Host the company file on a dedicated server for better performance.

Conclusion​

QuickBooks Error Code 6175 can disrupt your workflow, especially in multi-user setups. However, by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. From verifying hosting settings to repairing QuickBooks installation files, these solutions address the most common causes of the error.

If the problem persists, consider reaching out to QuickBooks support or consulting a certified QuickBooks expert for further assistance.