switching to a new computer

I am confused. Which QB Desktop year version do you have? If you already have QB Desktop 2021, why do you need to reopen your files in QB Desktop 2016?

Hello there, @skipbird.

I appreciate your efforts in installing QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) 2021 on your laptop. I'm here to assist you with the process so you can begin tracking your transactions as soon as possible.

To avoid trouble during the process, please ensure that your computer meets the requirements. I've added a link where you can check the operating system, hardware, software, and other system requirements for QBDT 2021: System requirements for QuickBooks Desktop 2021.

Alternatively, you can follow these steps to download and install the update:

1. Download your version of QuickBooks Desktop. Save the file somewhere you can easily find it (like your Windows desktop).
2. Have your product and license number handy.
3. Install QuickBooks.

Furthermore, if you received an error message while doing the process, you can utilize this link to fix common installation issue:  Fix QuickBooks Desktop install errors.

Please post here again if you have other questions or concerns about QuickBooks installation or any related topics. I'll be right here to back you up. Have a wonderful day!