Learn how to install QuickBooks Desktop.
Once you download QuickBooks Desktop, follow these steps to install it.
In this article, you'll learn how to:
- Host QuickBooks on a network
- Prepare for the installation
- Install QuickBooks Desktop
- Decide which install path is right for you
- Activate QuickBooks Desktop
Host QuickBooks on a network
If this is your first time, set up a multi-user network and install QuickBooks Database Server Manager before you continue.
Step 1: Prepare for the installation
- Make sure your computer meets the system requirements.
- If you haven’t already, download your version of QuickBooks Desktop. Save the file somewhere you can find it (like your Windows desktop).
- Have your product and license number handy.
Find the product and license numbers
- If you bought QuickBooks from our website, you can find this info in the original purchase email.
- If you bought it from a retail store, look for the label in the original package.
- If you lost your license or product number, we can help you recover them.
Step 2: Install QuickBooks Desktop
- Open the file QuickBooks.exe.
- Follow the on-screen instructions. Accept the software license agreement when prompted, then select Next.
- Enter your product and license numbers, then select Next.
Step 3: Decide which install path is right for you
You have two options when you install QuickBooks: an express install or a custom and network install.
Express install option
We recommend an express install if you’re:
- A first-time user
- Reinstalling QuickBooks
- Going to use QuickBooks on one computer (not as part of a network of computers)
- Select Express, then Next.
- Select Install.
- When it finishes, select Open QuickBooks.
Custom and network install option
We recommend a custom and network install if you:
- Install QuickBooks somewhere other than the default location (such as on a server)
- Host your company files on a server
- Have a multi-user network
- Select Custom and Network Options, then Next.
- Select the option that describes how you’ll use QuickBooks.
- On the next display, select Change the install location.
- Select Browse to decide where to put your QuickBooks folder. Most people put it in their Programs folder.
- Select Next to start the install.
- When it finishes, select Open QuickBooks.
Step 4: Activate QuickBooks Desktop
After you install, QuickBooks will ask you to activate and update it. If you need help, here's how to activate QuickBooks Desktop.