Fix Windows Firewall Blocking QuickBooks Desktop Error

QuickBooks accounting software requires a continuous internet connection to address the updates and offer its multiple accounting features. However, for security reasons, the Windows firewall blocks QuickBooks. This stops QuickBooks from connecting to its server. Consequently, its functionalities stop working.

The Windows Firewall is blocking QuickBooks error occurs when QuickBooks access is limited. Configuring the firewall ports fixes this issue. This guide provides detailed steps to resolve the issue as soon as possible and ensure QuickBooks Desktop functions systematically.

How to Fix Windows Firewall Blocking QuickBooks Desktop Error?

To enable QuickBooks Desktop to run smoothly on your system and promote seamless working, use the methods given below:

Method 1: Add an exception for QuickBooks in Firewall Ports

QuickBooks uses several program files to complete different tasks. Here is a table for various QuickBooks executable files (programs):

Note: In case you witness Program Files (x86), it implies that you are working on a 64-bit Operating system.

Here are the steps shared below to create exceptions for such QuickBooks programs:

• Go to the “Start” option and enter Windows Firewall.
• Click the Windows twice to open it.
• Select Advanced Settings.
• Hit right-click on “Inbound Rules” and select the “New Rule” option.
• Select one executable file from the QuickBooks programs list.
• Hit the “Next” option and then click “Allow the Connection” option.
• Click on the “Next’ option.
• If prompted, make sure all the profiles are chosen. Now select the “Next” option.
• Include a rule and add a name like “QBFirewallException(name.exe).” Add it in place of the name and include the name of the executable file.

Prepare an Outbound Rule for the same program with these steps:

• Hit right-click on the “Outbound Rules” option, instead of “Inbound Rules”.
• Restart the system once the setup is complete.
• Open QuickBooks Desktop and complete the tasks where the issue occurred.
• Go to the next solution if the Windows Firewall blocking QuickBooks error persists.

May you read this: How to Fix QBDBMGRN Not Running on this Computer?

Method 2: Exclude QuickBooks from Firewall

To exclude QuickBooks Desktop from Firewall, follow the steps in the given order. 

Note: In case QuickBooks ports are open, the Firewall will block it from using the internet. Hence, it is important to add QuickBooks as an exception:

• Hit the Windows button.
• In the search bar, enter “Firewall”.
• Click Enter.
• Hit the Windows Firewall option and click the “Advanced Settings” button.
• Hit right-click on the Inbound Rules field.
• Select “Program” and hit “Next”.
• Click Program Path>Browse.
• Select one QuickBooks executable file.
• Click on “Next”.
• Choose the “Allow the Connection” option and hit “Next”.
• With the pop-up, mark all profiles.
• Press Next and create a rule.
• Name it in the format “QBFirewallexception(name.exe) for quick access.
• Create Outbound Rules.
• Reboot the system and check if the QuickBooks Desktop error is resolved or not.

Method 3: Run QuickBooks File Doctor through the Tool Hub

Windows Firewall blocking QuickBooks errors often causes company file problems and network issues. Running QuickBooks File Doctor resolves these problems quickly.

Follow the steps below to use it:

• Open the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
• Hit the Company File Issues option.
• Choose the Run QuickBooks File Doctor option from the drop-down menu. In case the File Doctor does not open automatically, look for QuickBooks Desktop File Doc and open it manually.
• Select your company file from the QuickBooks File Doctor drop-down.
• In case the file is not listed, hit the Browse option and find it manually.
• Choose Check the File option and click the “Proceed” option.
• Enter your QuickBooks admin password and hit “Next”.
• Scanning the company file takes 3 to 5 minutes, based on its size. QuickBooks often displays an unsuccessful scan message even if the issue is fixed. Post scanning, open QuickBooks and complete the task that had problems.
• In case, QuickBooks File Doctor fails to resolve the error, “Windows Firewall is blocking QuickBooks”, move on to the next solution.

See this: Easy Ways to Fix QuickBooks File Doctor Not Working Issues

Method 4: Disable your Windows Firewall

Disabling the Windows firewall removes all the restrictions the firewall installed to save the system from malware, viruses, etc. Hence, if QuickBooks is on the list of unwanted applications, it will not experience any more blockages.

Here are the steps to disable the Windows Firewall:

• Go to the Control Panel on the Desktop or Start menu.
• Open the Control Panel screen and go to the Windows Firewall tab.
• Select the Turn Windows Firewall on/off option.
• Now disable the Firewall option.
• Go back to the QuickBooks application and check if the blockage persists or not.

What is a Windows Firewall Blocking QuickBooks Issue?

The Windows firewall restricts the QuickBooks firewall ports. Consequently, it restricts internet access to the QuickBooks application, leading to several issues in business operations. Only a particular QuickBooks program is impacted by this issue and needs immediate support.

What is a Windows Firewall?

Windows Firewall filters network traffic based on IP address, source, and port number. It defends your system from malicious software, security threats, and unauthorized programs. The firewall restricts access to the system or network. When QuickBooks is untrusted or marked, the firewall stops its access to the Internet or network systems.

Common Reasons for the “Windows Firewall is Blocking QuickBooks

The Windows Firewall defends your system from malware, viruses, and other cyber threats. However, sometimes it incorrectly marks QuickBooks as a risk. This stops the program from working appropriately and triggers inconvenience for users depending on it for financial tasks.

Windows Firewall restricts QuickBooks Database Server Manager for the following reasons:

• QuickBooks is installed incorrectly, triggering the firewall to block damaged files.
• Windows Firewall configuration is improper.
• Firewall ports required for QuickBooks communication are inactive or blocked.
• The QuickBooks company file is corrupted or damaged.
• QuickBooks clashes with third-party antivirus software.
• An out-of-date QuickBooks version is being used.

Note: Ensure proper installation, updating QuickBooks, configuring firewall settings, and checking for files or software are done to resolve the issue

Need Profesional Help

Quickbooks Proadvisor Support is an independent technical support provider for QuickBooks accounting software and peripherals. It houses experienced and knowledgeable professionals who, with their combined skills, help resolve issues. The resolution offered is complete and assured to be resolved in the minimum wait time. Contact us at smbaccountants.com.

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