Although QuickBooks is renowned for making complicated accounting chores easier, technological faults can still occur. The “QBCFMonitorService Not Running” error is one problem that users frequently run across. This issue frequently interferes with connectivity to the company file stored on a server and might stop QuickBooks from operating properly, particularly when multi-user mode is enabled.
What the QBCFMonitorService is, why it could stop working, and how to resolve this mistake step-by-step are all covered in this guide.
What Is QBCFMonitorService?
QuickBooks Company File Monitor Service is referred to as QBCFMonitorService Not Running. This background service facilitates communication between QuickBooks Desktop and the QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDBMgrN), particularly in settings with multiple users. QuickBooks may experience issues opening or sharing corporate files if this service is not working, and it may show error warnings such as:
“QBCFMonitorService not running on this computer”
“QuickBooks Error 182, QBCFMonitorService failed to start”
“QBCFMonitorService.exe Application Error”
Common Causes of the QBCFMonitorService Error
This error can occur due to various system or software-related issues, such as:
Windows Services Not Operating Correctly or Disabled
Missing or damaged QuickBooks files
The service is blocked by a firewall or antivirus program.
Installing QuickBooks incorrectly
Outdated versions of QuickBooks or Windows
Disagreement with External Software
Identifying the root cause is the first step toward fixing the issue effectively.
How to Fix the QBCFMonitorService Not Running Error
Here are several proven methods to troubleshoot and resolve the issue:
Method 1: Restart the QBCFMonitorService Manually
Sometimes, simply restarting the service can fix the issue.
Steps:
Press
Windows + R
, typeservices.msc
, and press Enter.Scroll down and look for QBCFMonitorService.
Right-click it and select Start (or Restart if it’s already running).
Set the Startup Type to Automatic by right-clicking > Properties > Startup Type.
If the service fails to start or gives an error, move to the next method.
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Method 2: Run QuickBooks as Administrator
Running QuickBooks with elevated permissions can help if the service is being blocked.
Steps:
Close QuickBooks completely.
Right-click the QuickBooks Desktop icon.
Select Run as administrator.
Try opening your company file again.
Method 3: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub
QuickBooks Tool Hub can automatically fix common service-related problems.
Steps:
Download the QuickBooks Tool Hub and install it.
Open the Tool Hub.
Go to the Program Problems tab.
Select Quick Fix My Program to restart services automatically.
If needed, also run the QuickBooks Database Server Manager from the Network Issues tab.
Method 4: Repair QuickBooks Installation
Corrupted files during installation can affect background services like QBCFMonitorService.
Steps:
Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Find QuickBooks in the list.
Select it, then click Uninstall/Change > Repair.
Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your PC.
Method 5: Reinstall QuickBooks Using Clean Install Tool
If the error persists, a clean reinstall might be necessary.
Steps:
Uninstall QuickBooks from the Control Panel.
Download and run the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool.
Rename leftover installation folders manually (or allow the tool to do it).
Reinstall QuickBooks and check if the error is resolved.
Important: Back up your company file before uninstalling.
Method 6: Configure Windows Firewall and Antivirus Settings
Firewalls or antivirus software may block QBCFMonitorService from running.
Steps:
Open Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall.
Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
Ensure the following files are allowed for Private and Public networks:
QBCFMonitorService.exe
QBDBMgrN.exe
QuickBooksDBXX.exe
(XX depends on your version)
If you’re using a third-party antivirus, open its dashboard and add these files to the exception list.
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Method 7: Update Windows and QuickBooks
An outdated OS or software version can lead to service errors.
Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and install available updates.
Open QuickBooks > Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop, then download and install the latest release.
Final Tips to Prevent the Error
To avoid running into the QBCFMonitorService error again, consider the following best practices:
Always update QuickBooks and Windows OS regularly.
Use a reliable antivirus that’s QuickBooks-compatible.
Make sure QuickBooks services are set to Automatic in Windows