moving QB desktop 2020 to a new computer, from windows10 to windows11

Yes, it is possible to move QuickBooks Desktop 2020 from a Windows 10 to a Windows 11 computer, Bullcalf. It is important to ensure your data is safe during this transition, so let's take a moment to go through the necessary steps together.

Before we begin, I suggest creating a backup of your QuickBooks company file to ensure your data remains safe. 

It's important to note that QuickBooks Desktop 2020 hasn't been officially certified for Windows 11 since it's considered a sunset version, which means not all editions may be fully compatible. However, the newer versions of QuickBooks, like 2022 and beyond, have been specifically optimized for Windows 11, offering a smoother experience. While there's always a slight chance of encountering issues with older versions, many users have found it generally safe to proceed with the installation.

Here’s how you can go about it using the QuickBooks Migrator Tool, which makes this transition a bit smoother:

Step 1: Use the QuickBooks Migrator Tool

The QuickBooks Migrator Tool helps you transfer your QuickBooks data and settings to the new computer. Here's how to use it:

1. Prepare the Old Computer:

• Open QuickBooks on your old computer.
• Go to the File menu, select Utilities, and then Move QuickBooks to another computer.
• Follow the instructions to create a one-time password and select the USB flash drive as the destination.
• The tool will copy your QuickBooks data and settings to the USB drive.

1. Prepare the New Computer:

• Insert the USB flash drive into your new Windows 11 computer.
• Run the migrator tool from the USB drive.
• Enter the one-time password you created earlier and follow the prompts to complete the migration.

For detailed guidance, check out this article: Move or reinstall QuickBooks Desktop to another computer.

Once your setup is complete, you can refer to this article for assistance restoring your file: Restore a backup of your company file.

Lastly, to ensure everything runs smoothly and receive the ongoing support and updates you deserve from QuickBooks, you might consider upgrading to the latest version that fully supports Windows 11.

If you have any further questions or need more help with the transition, please leave a reply below. We are here to assist you.

@bullcalf 

Yes, you should be able to reinstall and run QBD 2020 on Win 11 without any issue. 

I have QB 2022 which runs on Windows 10.  I want to move to a new computer running Windows 11.  I went through these steps, but when I double clicked the QB file on the flashdrive, there was an error that said QB couldn't be installed.  What should I do, and is it still ok to use QB on my old computer until this is resolved and then try again to move it to the new computer at a later time?

@Jhall6 

The migration tool is not reliable. You should reinstall QB program on your new machine and restore the backup file manually.

I appreciate the efforts you have made to transfer and install QuickBooks (QB) 2022 to a new computer. Yes, you can still use your old computer in the meantime. Also, please ensure that both Windows systems are updated, as this could be the reason why you can't install it on the new computer. Let me explain this further for you.

First, update the old computer and then redo the steps to move QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) using the Migrator Tool as usual. Ensure the new computer is also fully updated, including the Windows system. If issues persist, manually move the company files, only make sure you have a backup file. Here's how:

1. Have your product and license info available.
2. Uninstall the existing QuickBooks application before trying a reinstall.
3. On the computer where you want QuickBooks Desktop installed, download the installation files or insert the CD.
4. Install QuickBooks Desktop as you normally would.

For more detailed information, you can refer to this article: Move or reinstall QuickBooks Desktop to another computer.

You can also generate reports to see if everything syncs once you have successfully moved from the old to the new computer.

If you encounter any other difficulties with running the reports and managing your computer in QBDT, simply click the Reply button, and we'll be right here to help you anytime.

When I try to move everything to the USB it gets to 97% and then says something went wrong and try again.

@BAW2 

Create the backup file and copy it to your flash drive.

Several factors can impact the successful transfer of files to a USB drive, BAW2.

Below are the reasons:
 

• File corruption in QuickBooks data files.
• Issues with the USB drive
• Restricted access to some files
   

To begin with, make sure your QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) is updated to the latest version. This helps prevent compatibility issues and ensures smooth operations.
 

Once updated, you can now create a portable company file. Here’s how:
 

1. Open QuickBooks and log in as an admin.
2. Navigate to the File menu, then Create Copy.
   
3. Select Portable company file and click Next.
   
4. Assign a unique name to your portable company file to differentiate it from the regular company file.
5. Choose a location to save your portable company file.
6. Hit Save and then OK.
    

After that, you can now transfer it to your USB drive.
 

For more info, check out this article: Create and open portable company files in QuickBooks Desktop.

Feel free to revisit this page if you need additional assistance.

How long does migration take to download to external drive. 

@my18 

You can't use your external drive to restore the backup file. Create the backup file (*.qbb) and copy it to your external drive only.

It depends on how much data you're working with, @my18.

In addition to what @SIAB mentioned, the time required to download your company file to an external drive can vary based on several factors:

• Company File Size: Larger files will naturally take longer to transfer, while smaller files may move quickly.
• Computer Performance: The speed of your computer can affect transfer times. A faster processor will lead to quicker transfers.
• USB connection speed: USB 3.0 or higher will transfer data much faster than USB 2.0. If you're using an older version than this, this will make your download slower.

With these, there's no estimated time on how long it will take to transfer your company file to an external drive.

If you have follow-up questions, please don't hesitate to click the Reply button.

I keep getting quickbooks migration failed unexpected error.  What do I try next?

1. Go to Help, then select QuickBooks Desktop Help/Contact Us.
2. Enter a question, keyword, or topic for which you need assistance.
3. If you can't find answers to your questions, select "Contact Us" to connect with an expert for assistance. Note that you must search for an article before the "Contact Us" option appears.

@BlMurphy 

What QB Desktop year version?

ive tried twice and it says to try agin later.

i did of all that and it said to try again later.

I appreciate the effort you’ve put in, Cherie, and I understand how getting an error message after working through multiple steps can be challenging.

To resolve this issue, I recommend contacting our Live Support team for personalized assistance. They have advanced tools to diagnose the issue and help you complete the migration. Here’s how:

1. Open QuickBooks Desktop and go to the Help menu.
2. Select QuickBooks Desktop Help or Contact Us.
3. Enter a brief explanation or keywords describing the issue you’re facing.
4. If no relevant articles appear, select Contact Us to connect with a support expert via chat or phone for direct help.

Before reaching out, it’s helpful to note any specific error codes or messages you saw after the "try again later" prompt. This information will help the support team identify the issue faster and provide a solution.

Also, make sure both the old and new computers meet the system’s compatibility requirements. Ensure both systems are fully updated, including the latest Windows updates, and confirm that files from a 64-bit version of QuickBooks Desktop are being moved to another 64-bit system.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have other queries. The Community space is available 24/7.

@cheriehennig 

What year version? 2020 or else?