How to Open Quickbooks Company File on a Network
Looking to open a Quickbooks company file from a remote computer? Well, you can do so as long as the remote computer is connected to the network on which the company file is hosted. This feature is particularly useful for large offices where dozens of workstations are set up. Rather than restricting Quickbooks to a single workstation, this feature allows any authorized user on the network to access it.
Enable File Sharing for Company File Folder
The first step towards accessing a Quickbooks file on a network is to enable file sharing. The exact process for enabling file sharing varies depending on which operating system you are using. Generally speaking, though, you can usually right-click the folder and choose network sharing properties to enable it. File-sharing must be enabled for the folder that is currently storing the Quickbooks company file.
Enable Multi-User Access
Next, you must enable multi-user access for both computers — the computer on which the company file is located, as well as the company from which you intend to remotely access the company file. You can refer to this article for more information on how to set up multi-user access.
What About Company Files on a Server?
You can still remotely access a company file that is located on a server as opposed to a workstation. In order to do so, though, you’ll need full FTP access to the server. Contact your IT admin for assistance on accessing the server.
Map Computer as Network Drive
Another prerequisite of setting up remote file access is mapping the computer or server as a network drive on your own computer.
Assuming you follow these instructions, you’ll be on your way to accessing your Quickbooks company file from a remote computer. Just install Quickbooks on the new computer, and under the “File” menu, select “Switch to Multi-user Mode.” Now click “Yes” in the Multi-user hosting setup required window and proceed with the on-screen instructions. You’ll be prompted to answer a few more questions regarding the installation, but assuming all goes well, you’ll be able to access your Quickbooks company file from the remote computer.
Did this tutorial work for you? Let us know in the comments section below!