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wanda65
Level 1

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

It's a busy morning at a small accounting firm, and the team is gearing up to migrate their QuickBooks Desktop software to a new Windows 11 system. The decision to upgrade the operating system was made to leverage its enhanced security features and improved performance. However, what was anticipated to be a smooth transition turns into a frustrating ordeal as the QuickBooks Desktop migration unexpectedly fails.

 

We initiates the migration process, everything seems to be progressing as planned. The installation wizard launches, and the initial steps go smoothly without any errors. However, as the migration reaches a critical phase, the unexpected occurs. An error message flashes across the screen indicating that the migration process has encountered an unrecoverable error and must be terminated. 

14 Comments 14
SirielJeaB
Moderator

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

I can help you get back on track in no time, wanda65. I have some instructions on how you can have a seamless data migration.

 

May I know which version of QuickBooks you're currently using? Before migrating to a new computer, please ensure that the computer meets the minimum requirements and has an operating system compatible with your QuickBooks version. Additionally, it should have enough free disk space to complete the migration process.

 

If you're using the QuickBooks Migrator Tool, remember that 64-bit files can only be moved between 64-bit systems. Using a USB with QuickBooks 2022 or 2023 files on a 32-bit Windows system can cause the migrator tool to stop unexpectedly. To avoid this, have a computer connected to the internet and a USB with enough space to store your QuickBooks files.

 

Next, ensure you're using the latest version of QuickBooks for an efficient migration. Here's how:

 

  1. Open QuickBooks and go to the Help menu.
  2. Select Update QuickBooks and then Update Now.
  3. Click Get Updates to start the update process.

 

I'm also adding this page for the step-by-step process of moving QuickBooks to another computer: Move or reinstall QuickBooks Desktop to another

 

It's also best to create a backup copy of your company file before migration. Having a backup copy allows you to restore it to undo any changes, should any occur. 

 

I'll follow up with you promptly if you need anything else about data migration. Let me know in the comment section below. Have a good one.

4Gal
Level 11

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

@wanda65 

Which QB Desktop year version do you have? 2021?

paxmgmt
Level 1

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

Hi I'm having the same issue. I'm using Quickbooks 18.0 Enterprise Edition. Do you have suggestions for me? Thank you.

GianSeth_A
QuickBooks Team

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

I'll help you get things back on track swiftly, Paxmgmt. With moving QuickBooks 18.0 Enterprise Edition to another device. I'll provide further details below.

 

To start, the most effective tool you can use is the QuickBooks Tool Hub. It contains various utilities that help resolve common problems, including migration issues. Here's how you can use it:

 

  1. Download the most recent version (1.6.0.8) of the application and save the file somewhere you can easily find (like your Downloads folder or Windows desktop). Note: If you've installed Tool Hub before, you can find out which version you have. Select the Home tab. The version will be on the bottom.
  2. Open the file you downloaded (QuickBooksToolHub.exe).
  3. Follow the on-screen steps to install and agree to the terms and conditions.
  4. When installation is done, double-click the icon on your Windows desktop to open the tool hub.

 

For more details about using Tool Hub, here's an article you can refer to: Fix common issues and errors with the QuickBooks Desktop Tool Hub.

 

Furthermore, I recommend creating a backup copy of your company file before diving into migration. This helps restore and undo any changes, should any occur.

 

Moreover, here's the step-by-step guide on how to move your QuickBooks to another computer: Move or reinstall QuickBooks Desktop to another computer.

 

If you have any more questions about the migration process or need further assistance, please feel free to reach out. Remember, we're here to support you every step of the way.

paxmgmt
Level 1

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

Thank you. I downloaded, put in my license # and product key #, and now it's asking for an activation code. I tried calling Quickbooks Support for this activation code but nobody answers, and nobody is attending to the chat support either. How can I get this activation code? And why is it required if I have a valid license # and product code #?

Thank you for your help.

EvethC
QuickBooks Team

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

The activation code is essential for installing QuickBooks, as it verifies the legitimacy of your software purchase and helps maintain security. To obtain your confirmation code, please check the email account you used during the purchase. Let me guide you through the process, @paxmgmt.

 

The activation code is a key security measure used by QuickBooks to verify that the software installation is legitimate and to prevent unauthorized use. The license number and product key verify your purchase. Meanwhile, the activation code registers the software installation to your machine or QuickBooks account, enhancing security, ensuring compliance, and enabling personalized support and updates.

 

You can check the email account used during the purchase to obtain the activation code. QuickBooks sends an email with all necessary activation details once the purchase is complete. Be sure to check your inbox as well as your spam or junk mail folders.

 

If the activation code isn't received via email, follow these steps to reactivate QuickBooks:

 

  1. Go to Help, then Manage my license, then Change my license number.
  2. Enter the license number as all 0s and select next.
  3. Do not enter a validation code. Click Finish.
  4. Return to Help, Manage my license, then Change my license number.
  5. Enter your License number, then select Next.
  6. Hit Finish.

 

If you already tried these steps and the issue remains unresolved, I recommend reaching out to QuickBooks Support for more in-depth assistance. They can provide additional insights and help pinpoint any service links that might be causing the problem. Here’s how you can contact support:

 

  1. Go to the Help icon and choose the Search tab.
  2. Select Contact Us.
  3. Describe your concern and select Continue.
  4. Choose between Chat with us and Have us call you.

 

Please know that for Plus, Essentials, and Simple Start subscribers, support is available Monday through Friday from 6 AM to 6 PM PT and on Saturday from 6 AM to 3 PM PT. Advanced subscribers can contact support at any time and on any day.

 

Additionally, you can use this article for more detailed steps in setting up your QuickBooks Desktop: Fix activation, license, and product numbers issues.

 

Furthermore, this article can guide you on what to do if you see a “Your QuickBooks subscription has lapsed” message: Fix subscription has lapsed error in QuickBooks Desktop.

 

I'm here to help if you need further assistance with having your activation code, so please don't hesitate to reach out. Here's to getting your QuickBooks up and running soon!

Chrea
Level 8

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

@paxmgmt 

Which QB Desktop year version?

paxmgmt
Level 1

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

Enterprise 18.0 Accountant Edition

paxmgmt
Level 1

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

Enterprise 18.0 Accountant Edition

Chrea
Level 8

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

Your 2018 version is outdated. Intuit Support won't bother to give you the activation code. You can use the trial version of QB Desktop 2024 Enterprise for good as a workaround.

paxmgmt
Level 1

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

Do you mean the trial version won't force me to upgrade?

Chrea
Level 8

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

You may have 2 options:

1. Purchase a 3rd party service to downgrade your data from Enterprise to Pro/Premier. Then you can purchase QB Desktop 2018 Pro/Premier to open your file.

2. Use the trial version of QB Desktop 2024 Enterprise to open your data.

 

You should contact @Fiat Lux - ASIA for assistance.

paxmgmt
Level 1

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

I don't like either of these options. I want to continue using the QB edition I purchased. What else can I do?

Chrea
Level 8

QuickBooks Desktop Migration Failed Unexpectedly Windows 11

Unfortunately they have the right not to generate any activation codes for outdated QB Desktop Enterprise versions when you need to reinstall it.

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