How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2017 to 2024


Last Update: May 23rd, 2025     Author: Adams Williams

Reviewed By: SMBAccountants Editorial Team

Are you ready to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2017 to 2024 version?

QuickBooks is a full-featured and user-oriented accounting software package developed and marketed by Intuit. It has been launched mainly to fulfill the missing requirements of small and medium-sized businesses. Most users are experiencing a lack of advanced features or tools for business advancement, and if you’re one of them, then you are at the right place. QuickBooks Desktop 2024 is the latest release, a subscription-based model containing many new additional features and benefits.

Why is it necessary to upgrade QuickBooks 2017 to 2024 version? 

Upgrading from QuickBooks 2017 to the 2024 version is essential because Intuit discontinues support for older versions, including access to critical services like payroll, payments, online banking, and technical assistance. Without updates, users face security risks, compatibility issues with new operating systems, and a lack of new features designed to improve performance and efficiency. QuickBooks 2024 offers enhanced tools, faster processing, better automation, and improved user experience, making it a necessary upgrade for maintaining accuracy, compliance, and operational continuity in today’s evolving business environment. To gather more information about it,

Let’s Go Forward Without any ado.

  • There are some users who still using outdated versions of QuickBooks, which is a significant disadvantage to their time and money, and if you are also stuck with the older versions of QuickBooks, like 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020, and 2021, immediately switch to this new edition. 
  • With the new 2024 launch, a variety of transitions like Pro Plus, Premier Plus, and Mac Plus Subscriptions have been brought out to deliver greater value and more impactful features for you and your clients. This transition also encourages your clients to be on the most recent version so that no hindrance can block the way of your business advancements. Have a look at some extra perks provided to you to magnify the worth of your company. 

Pro Plus and Premier Plus Subscriptions

The Subscription edition 2024 offers many ways to grow the efficiency of your business, such as;

  • Access to the latest version, which includes the most up-to-date features, security patches, and support for third-party operating system updates. 
  • QuickBooks computational power is up to 38% faster and more dependable (64-bit).
  • Unlimited customer assistance and data recovery are incorporated at no extra cost.
  • Features that surely help you to save your precious time and money.
  • With the QuickBooks Desktop mobile app, you will be able to increase your productivity level. 

Mac Plus Subscription 

This Subscription version 2024 is a pack of several amazing and modified features including;

  • Access to the latest version, which includes the most up-to-date features, security patches, and support for third-party operating system updates. 
  • Customer support system and data recovery are comprised at no additional cost. 
  • Premium subscription features include the ability to create and categorize receipt expense transactions automatically. 

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System Requirements for Upgrading QuickBooks Desktop 2017 to 2024

Before upgrading or installing QuickBooks Desktop 2024, ensure your system meets these minimum requirements for optimal performance:

Operating System:

  • Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11 (64-bit), natively installed

Processor:

  • 2.4 GHz minimum (Single-user and Multi-user)

RAM:

  • 8 GB minimum (16 GB recommended for multiple users)

Disk Space:

  • 2.5 GB of disk space for the program (additional space required for data files)
  • Additional space may be required for payroll and other features

Display:

  • Display resolution: 1280×1024 or higher
  • Optimized for default DPI settings

Microsoft Requirements:

  • .NET Framework 4.8 or later
  • Microsoft Edge (for web-based features and payments)

Other:

  • Internet connection for updates and activation
  • Adobe Reader 11.0 or higher for forms and documentation
  • Admin rights required for installation

Precautions to take while upgrading QuickBooks 2017 to 2024

  • Don’t forget to make a file backup of the current version before starting to upgrade the company file and also ensure that your data is safe in the event of a technical problem. 
  • It is advised you make a backup of the version you are using currently.
  • Later, follow the steps to upgrade QuickBooks Desktop to the latest 2024 version.  

How to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop 2017 to 2024

Here’s how to upgrade seamlessly from QuickBooks 2017 to 2024:

Download QuickBooks Desktop 2024

  • Go to the official QuickBooks website:
  • Choose your product edition: Pro, Premier, or Enterprise.
  • Select the year 2024 from the drop-down.
  • Enter your license number and product number (from your Intuit account or confirmation email).
  • Click Download and save the installer to your computer.

Install QuickBooks Desktop 2024

  • Locate the downloaded file (usually in your Downloads folder).
  • Double-click the installer .exe file to begin.
  • Follow the on-screen instructions:
    • Accept the License Agreement.
    • Enter your License and Product numbers.
  • Choose the installation type:
    • Express – Recommended for most users.
    • Custom and Network Options – For advanced or multi-user setups.
  • Choose your install location or leave the default selected.
  • Click Install and allow the process to complete.
  • Restart your computer if prompted.

Upgrade Your Company File

Your company file (.QBW) created in QuickBooks 2017 must be upgraded before it can be used in QuickBooks 2024.

  • Open QuickBooks Desktop 2024.
  • Select File > Open or Restore Company.
  • Choose Open a company file, then click Next.
  • Browse to your company file location and select it.
  • When prompted to upgrade the file, click Yes.
  • Create a backup if prompted.
  • QuickBooks will now update your company file to the 2024 format.
  • Once done, click OK to continue using your file.

Note: After upgrading, your company file will not open in QuickBooks 2017 or earlier versions.

Activate QuickBooks Desktop 2024

Once QuickBooks is installed and your company file is upgraded, you’ll need to activate the software:

  • Launch QuickBooks Desktop 2024.
  • If prompted, click Activate Now.
  • Or go to Help > Activate QuickBooks Desktop.
  • Sign in with your Intuit account linked to your license.
  • QuickBooks will validate and complete the activation.

Once activated, your QuickBooks will be fully licensed and ready for use with access to updates, payroll, and support features.

You may read this: Upgrading QuickBooks Desktop In A Few Easy Steps

Final Word!

Upgrading from QuickBooks Desktop 2017 to 2024 is a major improvement in terms of performance, reliability, and features. It ensures your financial data stays secure, compliant, and compatible with modern systems and services. By following the steps outlined above, you can complete the upgrade with confidence and avoid data loss or service disruption.

Need help with the upgrade? Visit smbaccountants.com to consult a QuickBooks ProAdvisor for expert assistance.


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.


Frequently Asked Questions

Q 1: Can I upgrade directly from QuickBooks Desktop 2017 to 2024 without installing intermediate versions?

Q 2: Will my data be safe during the upgrade to QuickBooks 2024?

Q 3: Do I need a new license to install QuickBooks Desktop 2024?

Q 4: What happens to my older version of QuickBooks after I install 2024?

Q 5: Will I still be able to use Payroll and Banking features after the upgrade?

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