2014 QB pro desktop

Hello there, satm.

The error message Windows cannot access the specified device, path, or file indicates that QuickBooks is having difficulty accessing a file or system resource it requires to operate. This issue is often related to Windows permissions, security settings, or problems with the installation. Below are the troubleshooting steps to resolve this issue.

Before we begin, I want to inform you that QuickBooks Pro 2014 is no longer officially supported by Intuit. It functions best on older systems, such as Windows 7 or 8, but may encounter compatibility issues on newer systems like Windows 10 or 11. If you continue to experience problems, it may be worth considering an upgrade to a newer version.

To begin, run QuickBooks as an administrator. This will allow the program to access all system files fully and prevent it from being blocked by Windows permissions.

1. Find the QuickBooks shortcut/icon on your desktop.
2. Right-click on the icon and select Run as Administrator.
3. If prompted, click Yes to confirm.
4. Check if QuickBooks opens successfully.

If this works, it means QuickBooks requires elevated permissions. If it doesn't, we'll proceed to the next step.

Let’s check your User Account Control (UAC) settings to make sure QuickBooks isn’t being restricted. While UAC helps protect your computer by preventing unauthorized changes, it can occasionally block trusted programs such as QuickBooks.

1. Open the Windows Start menu.
2. Type File Explorer into the search and open File Explorer.
3. Find your QuickBooks program file.
4. Right-click your QuickBooks program (QBW32.EXE) file and click Properties.
5. Tap Security and then Edit.
6. Hit Add. In the window, type in Everyone and then press OK.
7. In the Security window, select the checkbox for Full control and then click OK.
8. Select Add again. In the window, type in Users and then OK.
9. In the Security window, select the checkbox for Full control and then click OK.
10. When you're ready, click Apply and then press OK to close your settings.

If the issue persists, you can utilize the QuickBooks Tool Hub to resolve deeper program or file-related issues.

You can utilize the Reply button below if you have further concerns in QuickBooks. We're here to help.