QuickBooks Error 6138, 105: Causes, Signs, and Proven Fixes

QuickBooks Error 6138, 105 is a company file access error that usually appears when users try to open or switch to a company file in QuickBooks Desktop. This issue commonly occurs in multi-user mode when another user is already accessing the file in a restricted way. As a result, QuickBooks blocks access to prevent data conflicts.

If you are facing this error, don’t worry. This guide explains the causes, symptoms, and step-by-step solutions to resolve QuickBooks Error 6138, 105 effectively.

What is QuickBooks Error 6138, 105?

QuickBooks Error 6138, 105 typically occurs when:

• The company file is being used in single-user mode by another user
• QuickBooks cannot communicate properly with the server
• Network or hosting configuration issues exist

The error message may appear as:

“An error occurred when QuickBooks tried to access the company file.”

Common Causes of QuickBooks Error 6138, 105

Understanding the root causes helps in applying the correct fix:

• Another user is logged into the company file in single-user mode
• Incorrect hosting configuration on systems
• Damaged or corrupted .ND (Network Data) file
• Firewall or antivirus blocking QuickBooks communication
• Network connectivity issues
• Improper server setup

Signs and Symptoms

You may notice the following when this error occurs:

• Unable to open the company file
• QuickBooks freezes or crashes
• Error message 6138, 105 appears on screen
• Multi-user mode fails to work properly
• Slow performance while accessing files

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 6138, 105?

Follow these solutions step by step:

Solution 1: Switch to Multi-User Mode

Make sure no user is accessing the file in single-user mode:

1. Open QuickBooks on the server system
2. Go to File > Switch to Multi-user Mode
3. Ask all users to log out and log back in properly

Solution 2: Verify Hosting Settings

Incorrect hosting setup often triggers this error:

1. Open QuickBooks on each workstation
2. Go to File > Utilities
3. Ensure Host Multi-User Access is enabled only on the server
4. Disable hosting on all other systems

Solution 3: Rename the .ND File

The Network Data file may be damaged:

1. Navigate to the company file folder
2. Locate the file with the same name but .ND extension
3. Right-click and select Rename
4. Add .old at the end (e.g., companyfile.nd.old)
5. Restart QuickBooks

QuickBooks will automatically create a new .ND file.

Solution 4: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor helps repair network and file issues:

1. Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub
2. Open it and go to Company File Issues
3. Click Run QuickBooks File Doctor
4. Select your company file and run the scan

Solution 5: Check Firewall Settings

Ensure QuickBooks is not blocked:

• Configure firewall to allow QuickBooks ports
• Add QuickBooks as an exception in antivirus settings

Solution 6: Restart Server and Systems

Sometimes a simple restart resolves temporary glitches:

• Restart the server computer
• Restart all workstations
• Reopen QuickBooks in multi-user mode

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Error 6138, 105 is mainly related to multi-user access conflicts and network configuration issues. By ensuring proper hosting setup, repairing network files, and using built-in tools like File Doctor, you can quickly resolve this error.

To prevent this issue in the future, always ensure that:

• Only the server hosts the company file
• All users follow proper login procedures
• Your network setup is stable and secure

If the problem continues, it may require advanced troubleshooting or professional assistance.