How to Fix QuickBooks Error 6073 99001: Step-by-Step Guide

QuickBooks is a widely used accounting software that simplifies financial management for small to mid-sized businesses. However, like any software, it may sometimes encounter technical issues. One such common problem users face is QuickBooks Error 6073 99001. This error usually occurs when trying to open a company file in a multi-user environment and can disrupt your workflow if not addressed promptly.

In this detailed guide, we will walk you through what QuickBooks Error 6073 99001 is, its root causes, and a professional step-by-step approach to resolving it.

What Is QuickBooks Error 6073 99001?

QuickBooks Error Code 6073 99001 is a multi-user mode access error that prevents a user from opening the company file hosted on a network server. It generally pops up with the message:

“QuickBooks is unable to open this company file. It may have been opened by another user. You should ask that user to switch to multi-user mode. Error codes: (-6073, -99001)”

This error typically signifies a conflict in access permissions or improper configuration of the hosting settings.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 6073 99001

Understanding the causes of this error can help in choosing the appropriate fix. Below are the most common reasons why this error occurs:

1. The company file is already open on another workstation in single-user mode.

2. The file is hosted on a read-only network folder.

3. The company file is being accessed using a remote connection without proper settings.

4. There are permission-related issues with the network or user account.

5. The file path is corrupted or misconfigured.

6. Antivirus or firewall blocking access to the company file.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 6073 99001

Before diving into the solutions, here are the key signs that suggest you’re dealing with this specific error:

• QuickBooks crashes while opening a company file.

• The error code 6073 99001 appears on your screen.

• Inability to switch to multi-user mode.

• File access restrictions even with admin rights.

• Slow response or freezing of the QuickBooks application.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix QuickBooks Error 6073 99001

Now that you know what the error is and why it happens, let’s go through the professional, step-by-step process to resolve it.

Step 1: Use QuickBooks File Doctor Tool

The first and easiest step is to use the QuickBooks Tool Hub, which contains the File Doctor utility to diagnose and repair company file issues.

Steps:

1. Download the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.

2. Install and open the Tool Hub.

3. Navigate to Company File Issues.

4. Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor.

5. Select your company file from the list or browse to locate it.

6. Choose Check your file and start the scan.

7. Wait for the scan to complete and review the results.

Note: Ensure all users are logged out of QuickBooks before running the tool.

Step 2: Check If the File Is Open in Single-User Mode on Another System

One of the most common causes of this error is that the company file is already open in single-user mode on a different computer.

Fix:

• Go to the workstation where the file is open.

• Open QuickBooks and switch to File > Switch to Multi-user Mode.

• Close the file and try opening it again on the desired workstation.

Step 3: Verify and Configure Hosting Settings

Improper hosting configuration across different systems can trigger this error.

Steps:

1. On the host computer (usually the server), open QuickBooks.

2. Navigate to File > Utilities.

3. Ensure the option Host Multi-User Access is enabled.

4. On all other workstations, go to File > Utilities and ensure Stop Hosting Multi-User Access is selected (which means they’re not hosting).

Only the server should host multi-user access.

Step 4: Check and Modify Folder Permissions

If the company file is stored in a read-only folder, QuickBooks will throw access-related errors.

Fix:

1. Right-click on the folder where the company file (.QBW) is located.

2. Click on Properties > Security Tab.

3. Select the user (or group) accessing the file and ensure Full Control is enabled.

4. If not, click Edit and grant the necessary permissions.

Step 5: Rename the .ND and .TLG Files

The Network Data (.ND) and Transaction Log (.TLG) files can become corrupted and cause multi-user issues.

Steps:

1. Navigate to the folder containing your company file.

2. Locate the files with the same name as your company file but with extensions .ND and .TLG (e.g., companyfile.qbw.nd).

3. Rename them to companyfile.qbw.nd.old and companyfile.qbw.tlg.old.

4. Reopen QuickBooks and attempt to access the file again.

These files will automatically regenerate when QuickBooks reopens the company file.

Step 6: Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager

The Database Server Manager is crucial for multi-user configurations.

Steps:

1. Open QuickBooks Tool Hub and go to Network Issues.

2. Click on QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

3. Click Browse and select the folder that contains your company file.

4. Click Start Scan.

5. The tool will scan and repair permissions and network access issues.

Step 7: Disable Antivirus/Firewall Temporarily

Sometimes, the firewall or antivirus program blocks network access to the QuickBooks company file.

Fix:

• Temporarily disable the antivirus/firewall and check if the file opens.

• If it works, configure your security software to add QuickBooks as an exception.

Always turn the security software back on after testing.

Step 8: Set Proper User Access Rights

Make sure the Windows user account has sufficient rights to access the network drive and folder.

Steps:

1. Log in with an administrator account.

2. Go to Control Panel > User Accounts.

3. Verify the user has the appropriate group membership (Power User or Admin).

4. Grant full control on the QuickBooks shared folder.

When to Contact QuickBooks Support

If none of the above steps resolves QuickBooks Error 6073 99001, it might indicate a deeper system-level or file corruption issue. In such cases, contacting QuickBooks ProAdvisor or Intuit Support is recommended. You can also use QuickBooks’ in-software support or online chat for advanced assistance.

Preventive Measures for the Future

To avoid encountering this error in the future, consider implementing the following best practices:

• Always ensure proper multi-user configuration.

• Regularly back up your company file.

• Keep QuickBooks and Windows OS up to date.

• Avoid remote access without proper configuration.

• Use the Database Server Manager for network file access.

• Educate your staff on best practices for using QuickBooks in a networked environment.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 6073 99001 may seem intimidating at first, but with a professional and systematic approach, it can be resolved effectively. By understanding the root causes and following the detailed steps outlined in this guide—from running diagnostic tools and checking hosting settings to ensuring proper permissions—you can restore full access to your company files and continue with your accounting tasks without disruption.

If you regularly encounter this issue, it’s advisable to consult with a certified QuickBooks professional or consider upgrading your network environment to support robust multi-user operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I fix QuickBooks Error 6073 99001 without professional help?

Yes, many users can resolve QuickBooks Error 6073 99001 on their own by following the step-by-step troubleshooting guide provided above. Using tools like the QuickBooks File Doctor, verifying hosting settings, and checking folder permissions are common do-it-yourself fixes. However, if the issue persists or the file appears to be damaged, it’s recommended to contact QuickBooks Support or a certified ProAdvisor for professional assistance.

2. Is it safe to rename the .ND and .TLG files in QuickBooks?

Yes, it is completely safe to rename the .ND (Network Data) and .TLG (Transaction Log) files. These files do not contain actual financial data; instead, they help QuickBooks manage access and data tracking. When renamed, QuickBooks automatically recreates fresh versions of these files, which often resolves multi-user access and file opening errors.

3. How can I prevent QuickBooks Error 6073 99001 in the future?

To prevent this error from occurring again:

• Ensure only the server computer hosts the company file.

• Train your team to switch to multi-user mode properly.

• Keep your QuickBooks software and Windows operating system updated.

• Regularly check network and file permissions.

• Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager for proper file hosting.