QUICKBOOKS DESKTOP

Why does QuickBooks desktop keeps closing after Windows updates?

Bob Martin | 27 March 2025

QuickBooks Desktop is an essential accounting software, but many users experience issues after installing Windows updates. One common problem is QuickBooks closing unexpectedly. This can disrupt workflow and cause data loss. This guide explains why QuickBooks keeps closing after Windows updates and how to fix it.

Reasons Why QuickBooks Closes After Windows Updates

1. Incompatibility with the Latest Windows Update

Some Windows updates introduce changes that may conflict with QuickBooks, leading to crashes.

2. Corrupt QuickBooks Installation

A Windows update might corrupt QuickBooks files, causing the software to shut down unexpectedly.

3. Damaged Windows Components

Critical Windows components like Microsoft .NET Framework, MSXML, or C++ redistributables may get corrupted during an update, affecting QuickBooks functionality.

4. User Account Control (UAC) Restrictions

Windows updates sometimes reset security settings, restricting QuickBooks access and causing crashes.

5. Conflicts with Antivirus or Firewall

New security settings from Windows updates may cause antivirus programs to block QuickBooks, forcing it to close.

6. Corrupt Company File

A damaged company file can cause QuickBooks to close immediately after opening.

7. Background Processes Interfering with QuickBooks

Other applications running in the background may conflict with QuickBooks after a Windows update.

How to Fix QuickBooks Closing Issue After Windows Update

Step 1: Update QuickBooks Desktop

Open QuickBooks and go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
Click Update Now, select Get Updates, and install available updates.

Step 2: Run QuickBooks as an Administrator

Right-click on the QuickBooks icon and select Run as Administrator.
Check if the software still closes unexpectedly.

Step 3: Repair QuickBooks Installation

Open Control Panel and go to Programs and Features.
Select QuickBooks, click Uninstall/Change, then choose Repair.
Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the repair process.

Step 4: Reinstall QuickBooks Using Clean Install Tool

Download the QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit's website.
Open the Tool Hub and go to Installation Issues.
Select Clean Install Tool to remove QuickBooks completely.
Reinstall QuickBooks from the official Intuit website.

Step 5: Check Windows Components

Run Windows System File Checker by typing sfc /scannow in Command Prompt (Admin mode).
Update .NET Framework, MSXML, and C++ Redistributables from the Microsoft website.

Step 6: Modify User Account Control (UAC) Settings

Open Control Panel, go to User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings.
Move the slider to Never Notify and restart your computer.

Step 7: Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall

Disable antivirus software and check if QuickBooks runs properly.
Add QuickBooks as an exception in your antivirus settings.

Step 8: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

Open QuickBooks Tool Hub and select Company File Issues.
Run QuickBooks File Doctor to repair damaged files.

Step 9: Run QuickBooks in Compatibility Mode

Right-click on the QuickBooks icon and select Properties.
Click the Compatibility tab and choose Run this program in compatibility mode for:
Select an earlier version of Windows and apply the changes.

Step 10: Restore Windows to a Previous State

If QuickBooks worked fine before the update, perform a System Restore:
Search for System Restore in Windows and follow the steps to restore to an earlier point.

Frequently Asked Questions (Q&A)

Q1: Why does QuickBooks keep closing after a Windows update?

A: Windows updates can change system settings, corrupt QuickBooks files, or create compatibility issues.

Q2: How can I prevent QuickBooks from closing unexpectedly?

A: Keep QuickBooks updated, run it as an administrator, and ensure your Windows components are in good condition.

Q3: Should I uninstall a Windows update if QuickBooks stops working?

A: If the update caused issues, you can uninstall it by going to Settings > Update & Security > View Update History > Uninstall Updates.

Q4: Will reinstalling QuickBooks delete my data?

A: No, but always back up your company file before reinstalling to avoid data loss.

Q5: Can QuickBooks File Doctor fix the closing issue?

A: Yes, if the issue is caused by a corrupted company file, QuickBooks File Doctor can help.

Q6: Why does QuickBooks work fine in Safe Mode but not in normal mode?

A: This suggests a conflict with other software or drivers. Try disabling startup programs using msconfig.

Q7: Should I contact QuickBooks Support if the issue persists?

A: Yes, if none of the solutions work, reaching out to QuickBooks Support is recommended.

Conclusion

Windows updates can sometimes cause QuickBooks Desktop to close unexpectedly. By updating QuickBooks, checking Windows components, and using troubleshooting tools, you can resolve this issue. If problems persist, consider restoring Windows to an earlier state or contacting QuickBooks Support.