QuickBooks Connection has been Lost [2023 Latest Guide]
July 18, 2023
QuickBooks, developed by Intuit Inc., is a widely used accounting software for businesses that provide an array of tools for managing invoices, expenses, tax files, and more. As robust as it is, QuickBooks is not exempt from occasional errors and glitches, one of which is the "QuickBooks Connection Has Been Lost" error. This error can disrupt your workflow, causing you substantial downtime. To address this issue, we need to first understand what it is and the possible causes behind it.
What is QuickBooks Connection Has Been Lost Error?
The "QuickBooks Connection Has Been Lost" error typically pops up when you're trying to open your company file or during a transaction. This error refers to a disruption in the connection between the software and the company file saved on the server or your local workstation. As a result, QuickBooks cannot read or modify the data, which halts your workflow.
Reasons that Cause QuickBooks Network Connection Error
Several factors may lead to the QuickBooks Network Connection Error. They include:
Faulty Network Connection: Unstable or weak internet connections often cause connectivity issues with QuickBooks.
Damaged or Corrupted QuickBooks Database Files: If your QuickBooks database files are corrupted or damaged, you might encounter this error.
Firewall Settings: Sometimes, your firewall might block QuickBooks from accessing the company file, resulting in the lost connection error.
Power Saving Settings: If your computer's power-saving settings shut down the hard disk that contains your company file, QuickBooks might lose its connection.
Signs For QuickBooks Connection has been Lost
Several signs indicate a potential QuickBooks Connection loss. These include:
You may receive an error message stating, "Connection to the company file has been lost."
The QuickBooks software might freeze or become unresponsive.
You may be unable to access certain data or perform specific transactions.
Prevention Measures for QuickBooks Network Connection Error
Although you cannot prevent all instances of the QuickBooks Network Connection Error, the following measures may significantly reduce its occurrence:
Maintain a Stable Network Connection: Ensure that you have a stable and robust network connection when working with QuickBooks.
Regularly Update QuickBooks Software: Keep your QuickBooks software updated to the latest version, as updates often include bug fixes.
Regularly Backup Your Data: Regularly backing up your data can prevent data loss if an error occurs.
Monitor Firewall Settings: Monitor your firewall settings to ensure they aren't blocking QuickBooks.
Adjust Power Settings: Adjust your computer's power settings to prevent the hard disk from shutting down while you're using QuickBooks.
Troubleshooting Steps For QuickBooks Connection Lost Error
Here are some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the QuickBooks Connection Lost Error:
Step 1: Check Your Network Connection:
The reliability of your network connection is crucial when working with QuickBooks, as most of its services are cloud-based. If your internet connection is unstable or weak, you could face issues like the "QuickBooks Connection Has Been Lost" error. To troubleshoot this, follow these steps:
Test your internet connection: Open your internet browser and try to access any website. If the website loads without any problem, your internet connection is working. If not, your internet connection might be the problem.
Check your router: If you're unable to connect to the internet, check your router. Ensure it's switched on and properly connected to your device. If necessary, restart your router.
Check your network cables: If you're using a wired connection, check to make sure that the network cables are correctly plugged in. If you find any loose cables, reconnect them.
Check your computer's network settings: Navigate to your computer's network settings. Ensure that you're connected to the correct network and that your computer's settings aren't causing any issues.
Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP): If you've done all of the above and still can't connect to the internet, contact your ISP. There could be an issue with your internet service, which they can help resolve.
Check for QuickBooks Updates:
QuickBooks regularly releases updates to improve functionality and fix bugs. Missing these updates could lead to issues like the "Connection Has Been Lost" error.
Open QuickBooks and go to the 'Help' menu at the top.
Select 'Update QuickBooks Desktop' from the drop-down list.
On the 'Update QuickBooks' window, go to the 'Update Now' tab.
To erase all previous update downloads, select 'Reset Update', then choose 'Get Updates'.
Once the updates are downloaded, restart QuickBooks. When prompted, accept the option to install the new release.
Check Firewall Settings:
Firewalls can sometimes block QuickBooks, causing connectivity issues. Ensuring QuickBooks has permission to bypass your firewall can fix this problem.
Open your computer'sfirewall settings (the process may vary depending on your operating system).
Check to see if QuickBooks is on the list of allowed programs.
If not, add it manually. There should be an option to 'Add program' or 'Allow another program'. From there, navigate to your QuickBooks installation and select it.
Reboot and Retry:
Restarting your computer can often solve temporary issues with QuickBooks.
Close all running programs on your computer, including QuickBooks.
Restart your computer by clicking the 'Start' button, then 'Power', then 'Restart'.
Once your computer has restarted, open QuickBooks again and see if the error persists.
Use QuickBooks File Doctor:
QuickBooks File Doctor is a tool designed to repair common file issues in QuickBooks.
Download the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official website and install it.
Open the Tool Hub and select 'Company File Issues'.
Click 'Run QuickBooks File Doctor'. This will open a drop-down list.
Select your company file from the list. If it's not there, click 'Browse' and locate it manually.
Select 'Check your file' and click 'Continue'.
Enter your QuickBooks admin password and click 'Next'. The QuickBooks File Doctor will start repairing your file. Be patient as this process can take a bit of time.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Connection Has Been Lost error is a common issue faced by users worldwide. However, with the right knowledge and tools, this issue can be easily resolved or prevented. Regular software updates, maintaining a stable network connection, regular data backups, and keeping an eye on firewall settings can help avoid this error. In case you encounter this error, the troubleshooting steps mentioned above can be of great help. If the problem persists, it's best to reach out to QuickBooks Support.
FAQs
Q1: Can a QuickBooks Connection Lost Error cause data loss?
A: If you're in the middle of a transaction when the error occurs, you may lose the data from that transaction. However, the rest of your data will likely remain unaffected.
Q2: Can I use QuickBooks offline to avoid connection errors?
A: Yes, QuickBooks can function offline. However, it still requires a network connection for certain features and services, such as payroll and online banking.
Q3: Is the QuickBooks File Doctor tool free to use?
A: Yes, the QuickBooks File Doctor is a free tool provided by Intuit to help users fix common QuickBooks issues.
