How to Fix QuickBooks Data Recovery Error With the Auto Data Recovery Tool?


Last Update: August 28th, 2025     Author: Adams Williams

Reviewed By: SMBAccountants Editorial Team

QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery is an important feature in the QuickBooks application. It helps recover lost data and is very useful when files become corrupted, go missing, or get damaged. Let’s take a closer look at this tool to understand how it works and how to use it fully.

QuickBooks has worked to improve the user experience by adding helpful features. One of these is QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Services. This service started in 2010, first for QuickBooks Pro/Premier, and was later added to QuickBooks Enterprise in 2012. These features help recover lost data using QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery.

This feature works by automatically creating a local backup copy of your company file. It uses two different Sybase technologies: “auto-replication,” which creates a copy of your QuickBooks Company (.QBW) file and the QuickBooks Transaction Log (.QBW.tlg) file.

What is QuickBooks Data Recovery?

QuickBooks Recovery, including the Auto Data Recovery feature, empowers users to retrieve nearly all their data in the event of corruption or data loss, regardless of the cause. While Intuit Data Services is typically available to assist users, relying solely on them might entail significant downtime in using the QuickBooks application.

Auto Data Recovery services offer a swifter solution for recovering lost or corrupted data. It is advisable to employ this tool only after exhausting all available troubleshooting methods to address the current issue.

The following are the steps to recover the lost file using QuickBooks recovery software:

  • Lost transactions are recovered by utilizing the existing Transaction Log File and a duplicate of the company file.
  • In this recovery process, all transactions, except those executed within the last few hours, are reinstated using both the company file copy and the Transaction Log file.

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What is the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery File Extension?

QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery automatically creates a backup copy of your company file and saves it in a separate folder called the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery folder. This folder contains .QBW.ADR and .QBW.TLG.ADR files, which are updated regularly.

Why Does QuickBooks Data Disappear or Get Deleted?

  • If you upgrade the company file to its latest version.
  • When you fail to upgrade the software properly.
  • External interruptions while performing any task.
  • Presence of multiple company files.
  • Loss of company files from the hard drive.
  • Unwanted power disruption.
  • Crashing of the device while working on QB.
  • Corrupt QuickBooks DataBase.
  • Mistakenly deleting the files.

What are the Causes of QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Error?

Your QuickBooks Account shows the error of data loss for several reasons. And, if you want to troubleshoot the problems permanently, you must understand the reasons behind the loss of data. So here, we have tried to point out the major reasons behind the same. Take a look:

  • In the case of the non-wired connection, there are chances that due to slow internet speed you are facing the issue
  • The location in which the data or the documents are saved needs an extra consent
  • The Firewall is non-supportive and prevents access to the PC
  • The power mode is on

How to Fix QuickBooks Data Recovery Error With the Auto Data Recovery Tool?

Here are the methods you can use to recover QuickBooks data:

Method 1: Using the Original .TLG File with .QBW.adr File

To recover a QuickBooks file from your hard drive using the original Transaction Log File (TLG) and the Auto Data Recovery (ADR) version of the company file, follow these steps:

  • Create a new folder named “QBTest” on your desktop.
  • Locate the folder where the company file is saved. You can find the location on the Product Information screen (F2 or Ctrl + 1) or the No Company Open Window.
TLG file with .QBW.adr File
  • Copy the corresponding .tlg file from the company file’s folder and paste it into your desktop’s “QBTest” folder. Make sure you’re able to view file extensions.
  • If you can’t identify the .tlg file, follow these steps:+
    • Open Windows Explorer.
    • Click “Organize” and select “Folder and Search Options.”
    • For Windows 10, 8.1 & 8, Click “View” and choose “File Name Extensions.”
    • Uncheck the “Hide Extensions for known file types” option.
    • Click “Apply” and Ok.
 QBTest folder
  • Copy the corresponding .tlg file of your company file, and paste it into the QBTest folder on your Desktop.
  • Open the QuickBooksAutoDataRecovery in the exact location as your company file
  • Copy the .QBW.adr file and paste it into the “QBTest” folder. A.QBW.adr and .tlg files should be in the “QBTest” folder.
Copy the .QBW.adr file
  • Right-click the .QBW.adr file on your desktop’s “QBTest” folder and select “Rename.” Delete .adr from at end of the file.
Delete .adr
  • Open QuickBooks and access the company file saved in the “QBTest” folder.
  • Use your account register to verify that all transactions are present.
  • Run the QuickBooks Verify Data Utility to ensure the integrity of this company file. You can find this option in the File menu under Utilities and select Verify Data.
  • If the copy of the company file in the “QBTest” folder is fine, move the damaged company file to a different location.
  • Transfer the copy from the “QBTest” folder to the original location as the last step in the QuickBooks recovery process.

 Method 2: Make Use of .QBW. adr and .TLG.adr Files To Recover Recent Transactions

Additionally, utilize the ADR version for the .QBW and .TLG files. This will allow you to recover all data except for transactions from the past 12 hours using QuickBooks’ restore deleted transaction software.

  • Create a new folder on your Desktop named QBTest.
QuickBooksAutoDataRecovery folder
  • Open the folder where the company file is saved; look for the QuickBooksAutoDataRecovery folder.
QBTest folder
  • Tip: You can check the location of the company file on the Product Information screen (press F2 or Ctrl+1 on your keyboard) and No Company Open window.
  • Look for the .TLG.adr and .QBW.adr files. These files have the same name as your company file.
  • Show file extensions
  • If you cannot identify the .TLG.adr and .QBW.adr files, perform these steps to show file extensions:
    • To open File Explorer, press Windows+E on your keyboard.
    • Select Organize, then choose Folder and search options.
    • Select Hide extensions for known file types.
    • Select Apply, then OK.
  • Copy the .TLG.adr and .QBW.adr files and paste them to the QBTest folder.
  • In your QBTest folder, remove the .adr from the end of the file names. That should give you .qbw and .tlg files in your QBTest folder.
  • Open QuickBooks.
  • Open the company file that is saved in your QBTest folder. Use your account register to verify all transactions are there.
  • To check the data integrity of the recovered file: in the top left, select File, then Utilities, then Verify Data.
  • If this copy of the company file is good, move the damaged company file to a different location and transfer the copy from QBTest to the original location.

How to Recover Manually Deleted Files in QuickBooks Desktop?

  • At first, you need to open the search box, followed by typing *qbw, and then you need to hit the “Enter” button.
  • In the next step, you are required to search for the copy as shown in the list of the company’s files
  • Now, you need to note the file, followed by right-clicking on it. And then, you need to choose the option for “Properties.”
  • As you move ahead with the steps, make sure that you go to the General tab. After that, you are supposed to check the file to see if is named a QuickBooks Company File or not
  • In the next step, make sure that you have used the Date Modified feature, followed by discovering the most updated files
  • As soon as you have found the most updated files, you are required to copy them to a CD
  • And, just after the file is copied, you are supposed to remove all the residual files as soon as possible.
  • In the end, all you need to do is to paste the copied file into the same location where it was kept before

How Can You Avoid Losing Your Data Files in QuickBooks?

To safeguard your essential data files in QuickBooks, consider the following tips:

  • Regularly back up your files; make it a consistent practice to avoid any lapses.
  • Maintain the cleanliness and security of your PC by conducting periodic antivirus scans, including thorough inspections to prevent potential issues.
  • Take preventive measures to avoid sudden system shutdowns for any reason.
  • Keep a QuickBooks data recovery service contact number handy when corrupted or damaged. This is particularly crucial if you need help addressing such issues and feel overwhelmed.

Backup and Restoration Tips for QuickBooks Data Files

Please keep the following considerations in mind for backing up and restoring QuickBooks files as needed:

Backing up QuickBooks Desktop Data:

  • Ensure regular backups of your company file data for security.
  • QuickBooks offers an automatic data backup feature to prevent data loss by handling this task.
  • You can set your preferred backup schedule – daily, weekly, or at your convenience.
  • Here’s how to set up automatic backups:
    • Open QuickBooks Desktop and go to the File menu.
    • Select the “Create Local Backup” option from the drop-down menu.
    • Click “Next” and choose a folder or location for the backup.
    • Configure your preferences, including the backup date and time, backup limits, and reminders.
    • Confirm the correctness of the company data, then click “Yes” after double-checking.
    • Follow the remaining prompts to set your automatic backup schedule.

Restoring QuickBooks Data Desktop:

To restore QuickBooks data, follow these steps:

  • Open QuickBooks and navigate to the File menu.
  • Choose the “Open or Restore an Existing Company” option.
  • Select “Restore Backup Copy” and click “Next.”
  • Choose “Local Backup” and then “Next.”
  • Locate the backup company file on your PC, usually named “companyfilename.qbb.”
  • Choose a folder for the restored company file in QuickBooks and click “Open.”
  • Click “Save” to complete the restoration.
  • If a warning message about overwriting your file appears, select the option that aligns with your preferences.

This comprehensive guide addresses your questions about data restoration and recovery in QuickBooks. Consider contacting QuickBooks’ auto data recovery chat if you require further assistance. Ensure you have sufficient knowledge before using the tool to avoid potential risks.

The QuickBooks data recovery team offers the following services:

  • Fixing corrupted files.
  • Migrating your books from an older QuickBooks version to the latest one.
  • Transitioning from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online.
  • Moving data from non-Intuit financial software to QuickBooks.
  • Recovering and restoring files.

How to Use the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Tool?

You should not be worried about losing any data with QuickBooks. It even comes packed with an option of recovering data via a tool. Yes, you also can avail of this service by downloading and installing the auto recovery tool. You can easily get back your lost data by following the steps enlisted here:

  • Scan the hard drive where you have mistakenly deleted the file
  • Run Quick and Deep Scan
  • Select the name of the file that you want to recover
  • Click on the “Recover” option

Need Professional Help?

To recover lost data with the QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Tool, visit smbaccountants.com for step-by-step guidance and expert support. Don’t wait—contact the professionals today to restore your company file quickly and securely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q 1: How do I recover lost data in QuickBooks?

Q 2: How do I rebuild data in QuickBooks?

Q 3: What to do if I am not able to identify the .QBW.adr and .TLG.adr files for QuickBooks Auto Data Recovery Tool?

Q 4: What is the QBW TLG file in QuickBooks?

Q 5: How do I recover data from QuickBooks Desktop?

Adams Williams

Adams Williams is a seasoned accounting professional with over 4 years of experience in bookkeeping, financial reporting, and business accounting solutions. Specializing in QuickBooks software, Adams combines technical expertise with clear, accessible content writing to help businesses streamline their financial processes. His insightful guides and how-to articles are crafted to assist both beginners and seasoned users in navigating accounting software with confidence.

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