Resolve QuickBooks Error 6190 and 816 – Easy Solutions

If you’ve encountered QuickBooks Error 6190, chances are you’ve been locked out of your company file, causing unnecessary stress and disruption. This common error affects many small and mid-sized business users, especially when multiple users access the same company file in multi-user mode.

Let’s break down what this error means, its root causes, and how you can solve it using proven solutions.

Facing QuickBooks Error 6190? Discover what it means, why it happens, and how to fix it quickly with expert-backed solutions. Call +1(866)409-5111 for help.

What Is QuickBooks Error 6190?

QuickBooks Error 6190 typically occurs when QuickBooks is unable to open the company file located on the host computer. This often arises in a multi-user setup when a user tries to access a file that another user has already opened, or when there’s a mismatch between the transaction log and the company file.

Common Error Message

“QuickBooks was unable to open the company file on the host computer.”

Error Code: -6190, -816

Top Causes of QuickBooks Error 6190

QuickBooks Error 6190 doesn’t appear out of nowhere. Several specific issues can lead to it:

1. Mismatch Between .QBW and .TLG Files

• A transaction log file (.TLG) doesn’t match with the company file (.QBW), resulting in QuickBooks being unable to sync.

2. File Is in Use by Another User

• Another user may have opened the file in single-user mode, blocking others from accessing it.

3. Corrupt or Damaged Company File

• Any damage to the .QBW file can cause QuickBooks to throw error 6190.

4. Network or Hosting Configuration Issues

• Improper configuration of hosting settings in a multi-user environment can trigger this error.

5. Update Discrepancies

• When the company file is updated on one system but not on another, it can lead to incompatibility issues.

Signs You’re Dealing with Error 6190

You may notice the following symptoms:

• QuickBooks crashes frequently or freezes when opening files.

• You can’t access your company file in multi-user mode.

• An error code -6190, -816 appears on your screen.

• The performance of your QuickBooks slows down unexpectedly.

How to Solve QuickBooks Error 6190: Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Use the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool

QuickBooks Tool Hub is an official Intuit utility that includes File Doctor, which can automatically detect and fix company file issues.

Steps:

1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub.

2. Launch it and select Company File Issues.

3. Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor.

4. Select your company file and let the scan run.

Tip: This step often resolves most .QBW/.TLG mismatch issues.

Step 2: Rename .ND and .TLG Files

Renaming these files forces QuickBooks to regenerate them, possibly fixing file corruption issues.

Steps:

1. Open the folder containing your company file.

2. Find files with the same name but with extensions .ND and .TLG.

3. Rename them to something like:

   • companyfile.qbw.nd.old

   • companyfile.qbw.tlg.old

4. Reopen QuickBooks.

Step 3: Verify Multi-User Mode Settings

Improper multi-user settings can block access.

Steps:

1. Open QuickBooks on the host system.

2. Go to File > Utilities.

3. Make sure Host Multi-User Access is selected.

If it shows “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access,” the system is already hosting.

Step 4: Sync All Devices with the Latest Update

Ensure all users are working on the same version of QuickBooks.

Steps:

• Update QuickBooks Desktop on all systems.

• Restart each system and try accessing the company file again.

Step 5: Move the Company File to a Local Drive

Sometimes, the issue is with network connectivity.

Steps:

1. Copy the company file to your local drive.

2. Open it using QuickBooks to check if it works.

3. If successful, this means the issue may be related to the network or server setup.

Preventing QuickBooks Error 6190 in the Future

To avoid running into this issue again, follow these best practices:

• Always log out properly from QuickBooks.

• Regularly update QuickBooks Desktop.

• Use the QuickBooks Database Server Manager to manage multi-user access.

• Create frequent backups of your company file.

• Avoid force-shutting down your system while QuickBooks is running.

When to Call Support

If none of the above steps resolve your issue, or if you’re uncomfortable performing them, don’t hesitate to contact professional QuickBooks support.

Call +1(866)409-5111 to speak to a certified expert and get your business back on track swiftly.

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Error 6190 might seem intimidating, but with the right knowledge and tools, it can be handled effectively. Whether it’s a file mismatch, update conflict, or hosting error, the solutions above should help you resolve it quickly.

Always remember—keeping your software updated, your files properly backed up, and maintaining good multi-user habits are key to avoiding these kinds of interruptions.