QuickBooks is a vital accounting tool for millions of small to medium-sized businesses across the globe. However, like any software, it is prone to errors. One common issue that users face is QuickBooks Error 1920. This error typically occurs when QuickBooks Database Manager Service (QBCFMonitorService) cannot start during the installation or update process.

In this blog, we'll discuss the causes behind QuickBooks Error 1920, its symptoms, and detailed solutions to help you resolve the problem. Whether you're a seasoned QuickBooks user or just starting, following these troubleshooting steps will guide you to effectively fix the error.

Find out more: QuickBooks Error 15113: A Quick Troubleshooting Guide

What is QuickBooks Error 1920?

QuickBooks Error 1920 appears when the QBCFMonitorService fails to launch, interrupting the installation or update process. This service is crucial for managing QuickBooks' database files, and any interruption can prevent QuickBooks from working correctly. The error message typically reads:

"Error 1920: Service QuickBooks Database Manager (QBCFMonitorService) failed to start. Verify you have sufficient privileges to start system services."

This error may occur while installing QuickBooks Desktop or during updates of the QuickBooks software or its components.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 1920

Several factors can contribute to the appearance of Error 1920 in QuickBooks. Understanding these causes will help you prevent the issue from occurring again. Here are the most common reasons:

  1. Insufficient Administrative Privileges: The service might not have sufficient privileges to start, especially if you're not logged in as an administrator.

  2. Antivirus or Firewall Blocking the Service: Some antivirus software or firewall settings can block the QuickBooks Database Manager from starting.

  3. Damaged or Corrupt QuickBooks Database Manager: The Database Manager service might be corrupt or not correctly installed.

  4. System Resource Limitations: If your computer’s resources, such as RAM or disk space, are running low, this can prevent QuickBooks from properly starting its services.

  5. Older Version of Windows: Running QuickBooks on an outdated Windows version may cause incompatibility issues.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 1920

Before diving into the solutions, it's important to identify the symptoms associated with Error 1920:

  • QuickBooks installation process fails or stops abruptly.
  • Error message “Error 1920: QuickBooks Database Manager failed to start” pops up on the screen.
  • QuickBooks performance slows down or crashes frequently.
  • You are unable to open or update QuickBooks Desktop.
  • System freezes or becomes unresponsive while attempting to run the application.

Now that we know the causes and symptoms, let's move on to the most important part: troubleshooting and fixing QuickBooks Error 1920.

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 1920

Solution 1: Log in as Administrator

One of the primary reasons for this error is a lack of administrative privileges. Ensure you are logged in as an Administrator before attempting any of the following fixes.

Steps:

  1. Log out of your current account.
  2. Restart your computer.
  3. Log in with the Administrator account (if unsure, consult your IT administrator or create an administrator account through the Control Panel).

Once logged in as an Administrator, try reinstalling QuickBooks Desktop. If the issue persists, move on to the next solution.

Solution 2: Rename QuickBooks Desktop Installation Folders

Sometimes, QuickBooks installation folders can get damaged, causing the Error 1920. Renaming these folders can allow the installation to proceed without errors.

Steps:

  1. Navigate to the following folders:
    • C:\ProgramData\Intuit
    • C:\Program Files\Intuit
    • C:\Program Files (x86)\Intuit
  2. Right-click each folder and choose "Rename."
  3. Add “.OLD” at the end of the folder name (e.g., Intuit.OLD).
  4. Reinstall QuickBooks Desktop.

Renaming these folders ensures that the QuickBooks installer creates new, uncorrupted files when reinstalling the software.

Solution 3: Restart QuickBooks Database Manager Service

If the QuickBooks Database Manager Service is failing to start, restarting it manually might fix the problem.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type services.msc and press Enter.
  3. Scroll down the list of services to locate QuickBooksDBXX (where "XX" is your QuickBooks version).
  4. Right-click on QuickBooksDBXX and select Restart.
  5. Once restarted, try reinstalling or updating QuickBooks again.

This solution helps ensure that the QuickBooks Database Manager Service is properly running.

Check out more: QuickBooks Error OL-233: Causes and Effective Troubleshooting Methods

Solution 4: Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Firewall

Certain antivirus software or firewall settings can block the QuickBooks Database Manager Service from launching. Temporarily disabling your antivirus or firewall may allow you to complete the installation or update.

Steps:

  1. Open your antivirus or firewall software.
  2. Temporarily disable it (most software offers this option within the settings menu).
  3. Reinstall or update QuickBooks Desktop.
  4. Once the process is complete, don’t forget to re-enable your antivirus or firewall.

If this method works, you may need to add QuickBooks to your antivirus or firewall’s exception list to prevent further issues.

Solution 5: Update Windows

Outdated Windows versions may not be compatible with newer versions of QuickBooks Desktop. Updating your Windows operating system can help eliminate compatibility issues.

Steps:

  1. Press Windows + I to open the Windows Settings.
  2. Navigate to Update & Security.
  3. Click on Check for Updates.
  4. Install any available updates and restart your computer.
  5. After the update, try reinstalling or updating QuickBooks.

By ensuring your Windows operating system is up-to-date, you can avoid unnecessary compatibility issues.

Solution 6: Clean Install QuickBooks Desktop

If none of the above solutions work, performing a Clean Install of QuickBooks Desktop might be your best option.

Steps:

  1. Uninstall QuickBooks Desktop via the Control Panel.
  2. Download the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool from the official QuickBooks website.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to remove all remaining QuickBooks files and folders.
  4. Restart your computer.
  5. Reinstall QuickBooks Desktop.

A clean installation removes any corrupted files from previous installations, allowing you to start fresh with a new install.

Read more: QuickBooks Error 6098: Understanding, Causes, and Troubleshooting

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 1920 can be frustrating, especially when you're trying to install or update your accounting software. However, by following the troubleshooting solutions provided in this guide, you should be able to resolve the error and get QuickBooks back up and running.

If the problem persists despite following these steps, it’s time to seek expert assistance. At QB Data Service, we are always ready to help you with any QuickBooks-related issues. Feel free to reach out to us at +1-888-538-1314 for immediate assistance.

Don't let errors slow down your business; we’re here to provide the support you need!