Multi-user mode

Hey there, @Regina1.

Pleased to see you here in the Community. I'm here to help set up your QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) to multi-user mode.

Currently, QBDT doesn't have a printable file that contains the step-by-step process on how to set up multi-user. However, I have an article/link that has the steps which you can give or send to your respective employees.

But before that, please note that the recommended multi-user set up is having the company file stored on the Host computer. To turn on Hosting, here's how:

1. Go to File menu at the top.
2. Select Utilities on the drop-down.
3. Choose Host Multi-User Access.
4. Click Yes on the confirmation window.

For your reference, you may visit this link: Host your company data file in multi-user mode.

Once turned on, here's the article that tackles setting up multi-user mode: Set up multi-user or network for QuickBooks Desktop. If you'd like to provide this to your employees, you can copy and paste the link and send them through email or any form of communication.

That's it! Please don't hesitate to let me know if you should have any questions about this or anything else. Take care and have a good one.

Hello,

I recently purchased QB POS desktop. I have the main download in my office and am attempting to set up a workstation in store front. I will switch to multi-user mode and am able to log on but when I step away and have to retype credentials in to reopen, the workstation cannot locate the server. I have to reset go to my office, switch to single user, and then switch back to multi user to reset. Please help as this is not efficient. 

I’ll help you resolve this, @roostersbcs.

There are some reasons why you encounter this issue. One of which could be a network connection that blocks the server and your workstation. It could also be the network sharing and folder permissions are not configured properly.

Rebooting can resolve the majority of the connection issues.  And when a firewall blocks connectivity, Point of Sale automatically configures the firewall for you. However, there are times that manual configuration is required.

You can follow these steps to fix the issue: 

1. Press Windows+R to open the run command.
2. Type in control, then hit OK.
3. Set the "view by" to Small Icons, then click Windows Firewall.
4. Go to Advanced Settings, then choose Inbound.
5. Click New Rule.
6. Select Port, then hit Next.
7. Enter the port numbers, then press Next.
8. Select Allow Connection, then click Next.
9. Name your firewall rule, and then click Finish.
10. Follow steps 5-9 to create a new Outbound Rule.

You can refer to other fixes in this article if the issue persists: Troubleshoot multi-user issues in Point of Sale.

It’s essential also to review QuickBooks Desktop Point of Sale system requirements to make sure all are compatible and for an efficient experience.

Get back to this page if you have other concerns. I’m always here to help. Take care.