QuickBooks Error 6073, 816: Causes and Permanent Fixes

QuickBooks Error 6073, 816 appears when users try to open a company file in multi-user mode. It stops QuickBooks from accessing the file, often displaying a message that the file is already open on another computer. This article explains the error, its causes, and tested solutions to fix it.

You’ll learn how to identify the error, steps to fix it manually, preventive measures, and how to use QuickBooks Tool Hub. If you still face issues, expert support from Error Code Experts is available.

Watch this quick video to learn the causes and solutions for QuickBooks Error Code 6073, 816.

What is QuickBooks Error “6073, 816”?

QuickBooks Error 6073, 816 is a multi-user mode error that occurs when one user tries to access the company file, but QuickBooks detects it’s already open on another system. This conflict prevents the file from opening and results in an error message.

It typically states:
“QuickBooks is unable to open this company file. It may have been opened by another user. Error codes: (-6073, -816).”

The error is linked to improper host settings or file access conflicts in networked environments.

Why does QuickBooks Error “6073, 816” occur?

The error appears due to one or more of the following conditions:

• The company file is already open in single-user mode on another computer.
• The company file is located in a read-only folder.
• Remote access tools (like LogMeIn or TeamViewer) are active and the file is open.
• The network configuration is incorrect or hosting is enabled on multiple systems.
• The file is being accessed through an unmapped network drive.

How can you identify QuickBooks Error “6073, 816”?

You can identify this error using the signs listed below:

• A pop-up message appears displaying error code -6073, -816.
• QuickBooks closes unexpectedly when accessing the company file.
• The file does not open in multi-user mode.
• The file opens in read-only mode or doesn’t allow modifications.
• The host computer displays the file as locked or already open.

What are the steps to fix QuickBooks Error “6073, 816”?

Follow the solutions below in sequence to fix this error. Start with the basic methods before trying advanced steps.

Solution 1: Run QuickBooks File Doctor from Tool Hub

QuickBooks File Doctor can identify and fix file and network issues.

1. Close QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Download and install the latest QuickBooks Tool Hub.
3. Open Tool Hub and click on Company File Issues.
4. Click Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
5. Select your company file and choose Check both file damage and network.
6. Enter admin credentials and run the scan.
7. Open QuickBooks and access the file again.

Solution 2: Switch the Host Computer to Multi-User Mode

If the file is in use on a host system, change the access mode.

1. Go to the host computer where the file is located.
2. Open QuickBooks and the company file.
3. Click File > Utilities.
4. Choose Host Multi-User Access if not already enabled.
5. Try accessing the file from another system.

Solution 3: Close File on Remote Desktop Software

Remote access tools can trigger this error if the file is already open remotely.

1. Close all remote desktop software sessions like LogMeIn or TeamViewer.
2. Reboot the host computer.
3. Access the file from a local or direct networked connection.

Solution 4: Change Folder Permissions to Full Control

The company file folder should not be read-only.

1. Go to the folder where the .QBW file is stored.
2. Right-click > Properties > Security tab.
3. Click Edit > select your user > check Full Control.
4. Apply changes and restart QuickBooks.

Solution 5: Use Mapped Drive Instead of Network Path

Unmapped network drives may lead to permission issues.

1. Go to This PC on the system trying to access the file.
2. Click Map Network Drive from the top menu.
3. Assign a drive letter and enter the network path to the company file.
4. Check Reconnect at sign-in.
5. Open QuickBooks and access the file from the mapped drive.

Is there an automated tool to fix QuickBooks Error “6073, 816”?

Yes, the QuickBooks Tool Hub includes QuickBooks File Doctor, which can automatically detect and fix the -6073, -816 error. It scans the company file and network settings, resolving access issues in multi-user mode. It’s free and recommended for most error cases.

How can I prevent QuickBooks Error “6073, 816” in the future?

You can avoid this error by following these practices:

• Always close the company file properly before switching users.
• Avoid accessing the file through remote desktop tools simultaneously.
• Set up QuickBooks Database Server Manager correctly on the host.
• Use mapped drives for network file access.
• Ensure folder permissions allow full access to QuickBooks users.
• Keep QuickBooks updated with the latest patches and releases.

What if QuickBooks Error “6073, 816” is not fixed after troubleshooting?

If the error persists after trying all solutions, the issue may involve deeper file corruption or incorrect network settings. Manual troubleshooting beyond this point can risk data integrity.

How can our experts assist you in resolving QuickBooks Error “6073, 816”?

Our QuickBooks-certified experts at Error Code Experts can help you fix this error remotely. Whether it’s an advanced file permission issue or a network configuration problem, we ensure quick resolution with zero data loss.

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