Install QuickBooks Desktop

Learn how to install QuickBooks Desktop.

Once you download QuickBooks Desktop, follow these steps to install it.

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.

Note: If you need to install or move QuickBooks Desktop to another computer, we'll show you how you can do it with the migrator tool.

Step 1: Prepare for the install

• Make sure your computer meets the system requirements.
• If you haven’t already, you can download QuickBooks Desktop from the Customer Account Management Portal (CAMPs) or the download site. Save the file somewhere you can find it (like your Windows desktop).
• Have your product and license number handy.

Find your product and license number

Step 2: Install QuickBooks Desktop

To watch more how-to videos, visit our video section.

1. Open the file QuickBooks.exe.
2. Follow the on-screen instructions. Accept the software license agreement and then select Next.
3. Enter your product and license numbers. Then select Next.

Note: You will require an active internet connection to install the software.

Decide which install path is right for you

You have two options when you install QuickBooks, You can do the express install, or custom and network.

Express install

We recommend 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).

1. Select Express and then Next.
2. Select Install.
3. When it finishes, select Open QuickBooks.

Custom and Network install

We recommend a custom 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.

1. Select Custom and Network Options and then Next.
2. Select the option that describes how you’ll use QuickBooks.
3. On the next display, select Change the install location.
4. Select Browse to decide where to put your QuickBooks folder. Most people put it in their Programs folder.
5. Select Next to start the install.
6. When it finishes, select Open QuickBooks.

After you install, QuickBooks will ask you to activate and update it. If you need help, here's how to activate QuickBooks Desktop.