QuickBooks Error 6189, 83: Causes, Symptoms, and Fixes

QuickBooks Error 6189, 83 appears when you try to open a company file located on another computer, but QuickBooks cannot access the file. This error is commonly related to multi-user setup or incorrect folder permissions. The error prevents users from accessing the company file and may disrupt workflows.

This guide provides a clear explanation of the error, why it occurs, how to identify it, and how to fix it using step-by-step methods. If you prefer professional help, our experts at Error Code Experts are ready to assist you.

Watch this quick video to learn the causes and solutions for QuickBooks Error Code 6189, 83.

What is QuickBooks Error “6189, 83”?

QuickBooks Error 6189, 83 is a runtime error that occurs when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to access the company file. It typically arises in a multi-user environment when the file is hosted on a server, but the system cannot establish a stable connection.

The error message may display as:
“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 so you can both use the company file at the same time. Error Codes: (-6189, -83)”

Why does QuickBooks Error “6189, 83” occur?

This error generally occurs due to file permission issues, incorrect configurations, or use of the wrong hosting setup. Below are common reasons:

• The company file (.QBW) is open on another system in single-user mode.
• Incorrect folder permissions for the QuickBooks file directory.
• Damaged QuickBooks installation or corrupted transaction log file (.TLG).
• QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not installed or misconfigured on the host system.
• The company file is stored on a removable drive or a non-local storage system.
• Multiple users trying to access the file without proper network setup.

How can you identify QuickBooks Error “6189, 83”?

You can identify this error by observing the following signs:

• Error code 6189, 83 appears on your screen while opening a company file.
• QuickBooks closes unexpectedly or freezes when accessing files.
• You are unable to open the company file in multi-user mode.
• QuickBooks responds slowly or becomes unresponsive during file operations.

What are the steps to fix QuickBooks Error “6189, 83”?

Follow the steps in the order provided to resolve the issue effectively. Begin with basic troubleshooting and proceed to advanced methods if the error persists.

Solution 1: Restart all systems involved

Restarting clears temporary glitches affecting the network and file access.

1. Restart the server hosting the company file.
2. Restart all client workstations.
3. Open QuickBooks Desktop on the host system and try accessing the file.

Solution 2: Run Quick Fix my Program via QuickBooks Tool Hub

QuickBooks Tool Hub helps diagnose and repair file access issues.

1. Download the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
2. Install and open the Tool Hub.
3. Go to the Program Problems tab.
4. Select Quick Fix my Program.
5. Reopen your company file in QuickBooks.

Solution 3: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor scans and repairs damaged company files and network issues.

1. Launch QuickBooks Tool Hub.
2. Select Company File Issues.
3. Click Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
4. Choose your company file from the drop-down.
5. Select Check your file and click Continue.
6. Enter admin credentials and let the scan complete.

Solution 4: Verify hosting settings on all systems

Incorrect hosting settings can cause multi-user mode conflicts.

1. Open QuickBooks on all workstations.
2. Go to File > Utilities.
3. If you see Host Multi-User Access, do not select it.
4. If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, select it to disable hosting.

Only the server should have hosting enabled.

Solution 5: Check folder permissions

Incorrect folder permissions can block file access.

1. Locate the folder containing your .QBW file.
2. Right-click the folder and select Properties.
3. Go to the Security tab.
4. Ensure Everyone has Full Control.
5. If not, click Edit, add Everyone, and give full access.
6. Apply and save changes.

Solution 6: Move the company file to a local drive

Avoid hosting the file on removable or cloud storage.

1. Copy the .QBW file to the desktop or a local drive.
2. Open QuickBooks and select Open or restore an existing company.
3. Browse to the new location and open the file.

Solution 7: Restore from a recent backup

Use this step only if the file is severely damaged.

1. Go to File > Open or Restore Company.
2. Choose Restore a backup copy and click Next.
3. Select Local Backup and follow the prompts.
4. Save the restored file to a new location.

Is there an automated tool to fix QuickBooks Error “6189, 83”?

Yes. The QuickBooks Tool Hub includes automated tools like Quick Fix my Program and QuickBooks File Doctorthat can resolve most causes of Error 6189, 83. These tools are free and supported by Intuit.

How can I prevent QuickBooks Error “6189, 83” in the future?

You can prevent this error by following these best practices:

• Avoid storing your company file on external drives or cloud-synced folders.
• Use a reliable server and enable proper multi-user hosting.
• Assign full folder permissions to QuickBooks users.
• Keep QuickBooks Desktop and Windows updated.
• Regularly back up your company file and verify the integrity using built-in utilities.

What if QuickBooks Error “6189, 83” is not fixed after troubleshooting?

If you’ve tried all solutions and the error remains, there could be deeper file corruption or network-level misconfiguration. In such cases, it’s best to avoid further file manipulation, which may lead to data loss.

How can our experts assist you in resolving QuickBooks Error “6189, 83”?

If QuickBooks Error 6189, 83 continues, our certified professionals at Error Code Experts are available to help. We offer advanced file recovery, remote support, and QuickBooks network setup.

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