How to Fix QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816 with Effective Solutions

QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816 is a common multi-user access issue that occurs when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to open the company file. The error message typically reads:

“An error occurred when QuickBooks tried to access the company file (6189, 816).”

This error is not caused by data corruption but rather by a mismatch between the transaction log and the company file or improper hosting configuration. Here’s how to resolve it quickly and get back to business.

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⚠️ What Causes Error 6189 and 816?

• 🧱 The .QBW and .TLG files are not synchronized
• 🔐 Lack of file or folder permissions
• 🌐 Hosting misconfiguration in multi-user mode
• 📂 Company file is stored on a non-local or read-only drive
• 🧠 QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running on the host system

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⚙️ Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Error 6189 and 816

✅ Step 1: Use Quick Fix My Program

1. Download and install the latest QuickBooks Tool Hub.
2. Open Tool Hub and go to the Program Problems tab.
3. Click Quick Fix My Program.
4. Let the tool run and then reopen QuickBooks.

💡 Pro Tip: This resolves minor program-related issues without affecting your data.

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🔄 Step 2: Restart All Systems

1. Close QuickBooks on all workstations and the server.
2. Restart the server hosting the company file.
3. Restart all workstations.
4. Open QuickBooks on the host computer first, then on other systems.

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🧰 Step 3: Rename .ND and .TLG Files

1. Navigate to the folder containing your company file.
2. Locate files with the same name as your company file but with extensions .ND and .TLG.
3. Rename them:
   • YourCompanyFile.nd → YourCompanyFile.nd.old
   • YourCompanyFile.tlg → YourCompanyFile.tlg.old
4. Open QuickBooks and try accessing the company file.

💡 These files are automatically recreated when you open the company file.

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🔐 Step 4: Verify Hosting Settings

1. Open QuickBooks on each workstation.
2. Go to File > Utilities.
3. If you see Host Multi-User Access, do nothing.
4. If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, click it to disable hosting on that workstation.

⚠️ Only the server should host the company file.

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🛠️ Step 5: Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager

1. Open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
2. Go to the Network Issues tab.
3. Click QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
4. Scan the folder containing your company file.
5. Restart the server and try accessing the file again.

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🧼 Step 6: Move the Company File to a Local Drive (Temporary Test)

1. Copy the company file to a local folder (e.g., C:\QBTest).
2. Open QuickBooks and browse to the new location.
3. If the file opens successfully, the issue may be with your network or drive permissions.

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🧪 Advanced Tips

• Ensure all users have Full Control permissions on the company file folder.
• Avoid storing company files on removable or cloud-synced drives.
• Keep QuickBooks and Windows updated to the latest versions.
• Use static IP addresses for server and workstations to reduce network conflicts.

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