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How to Resolve the "WDDM Service Not Running" Error in QuickBooks

· 3 min read
Debits

Introduction​

Encountering the "WDDM Service Not Running" error in QuickBooks can disrupt your workflow and prevent you from accessing crucial features. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step process to troubleshoot and resolve the WDDM service error in QuickBooks.

Understanding the WDDM Service Error​

The WDDM (Windows Desktop Data Management) service is integral to QuickBooks' functioning. When this service is not running, you may experience issues accessing data or other functionalities within QuickBooks. Common causes include:

  • Service Misconfiguration: Incorrect service settings.
  • Software Conflicts: Conflicts with other applications.
  • System Issues: Problems within the operating system affecting service operations.

Steps to Resolve the WDDM Service Error​

Step 1: Restart Your Computer​

  1. Close QuickBooks: Ensure QuickBooks is completely closed on your computer.
  2. Restart Your Computer: Reboot your computer to clear any temporary issues affecting the WDDM service.
  3. Reopen QuickBooks: After the restart, open QuickBooks to see if the error persists.

Step 2: Check and Start the WDDM Service​

  1. Open Services: Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box, type services.msc, and press Enter.
  2. Locate WDDM Service: Scroll through the list of services to find "Windows Desktop Data Management" or "WDDM".
  3. Start the Service: Right-click on the service and select Start if it is not already running. If the service is running, select Restart.
  4. Set to Automatic: Ensure the startup type is set to Automatic. Right-click the service, select Properties, and set the startup type to Automatic.

Step 3: Update QuickBooks and Windows​

  1. Update QuickBooks: Open QuickBooks and go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop. Follow the prompts to install any available updates.
  2. Update Windows: Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and check for updates. Install any pending updates.

Step 4: Run QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool​

  1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub: Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
  2. Run the Diagnostic Tool: Open the Tool Hub and select Installation Issues. Click on QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool and follow the prompts to scan and repair QuickBooks installation issues.

Step 5: Check for Software Conflicts​

  1. Open Task Manager: Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
  2. End Conflicting Processes: Look for any processes that may conflict with QuickBooks, such as other accounting software or background applications. End these tasks.
  3. Reopen QuickBooks: Try opening QuickBooks again to see if the error is resolved.

Step 6: Reinstall QuickBooks​

  1. Uninstall QuickBooks: Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features, find QuickBooks, and select Uninstall.
  2. Reinstall QuickBooks: Download the latest version of QuickBooks from the Intuit website and install it.
  3. Restore Data: Open QuickBooks and restore your company file from a recent backup.

Best Practices to Prevent WDDM Service Errors​

  • Regular Updates: Keep QuickBooks and Windows updated to the latest versions.
  • System Maintenance: Perform regular system maintenance to prevent software conflicts and system issues.
  • Backup Data: Regularly back up your QuickBooks data to avoid data loss and ensure quick recovery in case of errors.

Conclusion​

The "WDDM Service Not Running" error in QuickBooks can be frustrating, but by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. Implementing best practices will help prevent such errors in the future, ensuring smooth operation of your QuickBooks software.