I can explain some insights about running your company file on both computers, @Confidential Agent.
It isn't advisable to use QuickBooks Desktop company files in OneDrive (cloud storage) since this type of file is live updated as you work. QBDT is designed to be stored locally on a server or a desktop. I know how crucial it is to your business that's why we have built a hosting service to run QuickBooks in a multi-user mode to share data, or you can check our hosting providers authorized by Intuit.
On the other hand, at this time, here are the operating systems that the program works best:
- Windows 10, all editions including 64-bit, natively installed
- Windows 8.1, all editions including 64-bit, natively installed
- Windows Server 2019, Standard and Essentials
- Windows Server 2016, Standard and Essentials
- Windows Server 2012 R2, Standard and Essentials
- Windows Server 2012, Standard and Essentials
QuickBooks Desktop uses a database file manager to communicate with the company file. You'll have to use the Recommended mode to set up your file: The Recommended multi-user setup has the company file stored on the Host computer. The database used allows you to share data between two computers.
To turn on Hosting:
Important: Turn on hosting only for the Host computer or where the company file is stored. If you're using a server to host your file, one computer still has to act as a Host. You have to turn off hosting for workstations.
- From the File menu, select Utilities.
- Click Host Multi-User Access.
- Click Yes on the confirmation window.
After turning this on, you'll want to follow these steps:
- Go to your server computer (computer that physically stores your company file).
- On your server computer (computer hosting your company file/s), open the Start menu and type "database".
- Click on QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
- If it's not showing the folder location, click Browse and browse to the folder where you store your company file(s).
- Click OK.
- Hit Start Scan, this will repair the firewall permissions to allow QuickBooks to communicate over your network and resolve any error.
- When finished, click Close and try opening QuickBooks in Multi-User mode on your workstation(s).
I've attached an article for more information: Hosting your company data in multi-user mode in QuickBooks Desktop.
Additionally, you can check out the System Requirements for QuickBooks Desktop 2021 to see compatible hardware and software. Then you can start and move or reinstall QuickBooks Desktop to another computer.
Please let me know if you have additional questions about setting up QuickBooks in a hosted environment. Anytime I'll be around to help. Have a nice day!