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What to Do When QBCFMonitorService Stops Working

  • Writer: Lucifer Morningstar
    Lucifer Morningstar
  • Nov 11, 2025
  • 4 min read

If you’re facing an issue where QBCFMonitorService is not running, you’re not alone. This problem commonly appears when using QuickBooks Database Server Manager to host company files on a network. When the QBCFMonitorService fails, users may see messages like “QBCFMonitorService not running on this computer” or “QBCFMonitorService not running on server.” These errors can interrupt multi-user access, prevent QuickBooks from opening company files, or even crash your hosting setup.


In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover what QBCFMonitorService does, why it stops working, and how to fix it effectively. If you’re running into this error repeatedly, you can also reach QuickBooks support at +1(866)500-0076 for expert help.


What Is QBCFMonitorService?


QBCFMonitorService stands for QuickBooks Company File Monitoring Service. It’s an essential background process installed along with QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDSM).


Its main functions include:

  • Managing communication between the QuickBooks Desktop application and the company file in a multi-user environment.

  • Monitoring and maintaining the connection between QuickBooks users and the hosted data file.

  • Ensuring smooth synchronization when multiple users are accessing data

    simultaneously.


If QBCFMonitorService stops working, QuickBooks cannot connect to the company file

properly, leading to access and performance issues.


Common Error Messages


When this service fails, users may encounter any of the following notifications:

  • “QBCFMonitorService not running.”

  • “QBCFMonitorService not running on this computer.”

  • “QBCFMonitorService not running on your computer.”

  • “QBCFMonitorService not running on server.”


These messages indicate that the database service has stopped, failed to start, or isn’t properly configured.


What Causes QBCFMonitorService Not Running Errors?


There are several reasons why this issue can arise. Understanding them helps in troubleshooting effectively:


  1. Service Disabled or Stopped

    • The QBCFMonitorService may have stopped or not set to automatic startup.

  2. Firewall or Security Restrictions

    • Windows Firewall or third-party antivirus software might block the QuickBooks Database Server ports.

  3. Corrupt Installation

    • A damaged or incomplete installation of QuickBooks Database Server Manager can prevent the service from starting.

  4. Outdated QuickBooks Version

    • Compatibility issues between an outdated QuickBooks Desktop version and newer Windows updates.

  5. Damaged Network Data File (.ND)

    • The .ND file stores network configuration. If it’s corrupted, it can cause service communication errors.

  6. Windows Permission Issues

    • The service might not have sufficient admin permissions to run or access required files.

  7. Multiple Versions of Database Server Installed

    • When different years of QuickBooks are installed, multiple QBCFMonitorService instances can conflict.


Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix QBCFMonitorService Not Running


Let’s go through proven troubleshooting steps to resolve qbcfmonitorservice not running on this computer or server issues.


Step 1: Check the Status of QBCFMonitorService

  1. Press Windows + R and type services.msc.

  2. Find QBCFMonitorService in the list.

  3. Double-click it.

  4. Ensure that the Startup Type is set to Automatic.

  5. Click Start if the service status shows Stopped.

  6. Click Apply > OK.


Tip: If it starts successfully, try opening QuickBooks again and check if the issue is resolved.


Step 2: Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager

  1. Go to Start Menu → All Programs → QuickBooks → QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

  2. Click on the Scan Folders tab.

  3. Browse and add your company file folder.

  4. Click Scan.

  5. Once the scan finishes, open QuickBooks again in multi-user mode.


This refreshes the server configuration and re-establishes connections.


Step 3: Configure Firewall and Security Settings

If QBCFMonitorService not running on server persists, ensure your firewall isn’t blocking it:

  1. Open Control Panel → Windows Defender Firewall → Advanced Settings.

  2. Click Inbound Rules → New Rule.

  3. Choose Port → TCP → Specific Local Ports and enter: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382

  4. Allow the connection and name the rule “QuickBooks Ports.”

  5. Repeat the same steps for Outbound Rules.


Restart your system after saving the settings.


Step 4: Repair QuickBooks Database Server Manager

  1. Open Control Panel → Programs and Features.

  2. Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

  3. Click Uninstall/Change → Repair.

  4. Follow the on-screen prompts.

  5. Restart your system once the repair completes.


Repairing ensures missing or corrupt service files are replaced.


Step 5: Delete and Recreate the .ND File

  1. Open the folder where your company file is stored.

  2. Find the file with the same name as your company file but ending in .ND (e.g., CompanyName.qbw.nd).

  3. Right-click and choose Rename → add “.old” at the end.

  4. Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager and rescan the folder.


A new .ND file will be created automatically with updated configurations.


Step 6: Reinstall QuickBooks Database Server Manager

If you’re still facing the QBCFMonitorService not running on your computer error, reinstalling the database server can fix underlying service issues.

  1. Go to Control Panel → Programs and Features → Uninstall a Program.

  2. Uninstall QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

  3. Download the latest version from the official QuickBooks website.

  4. Reinstall it and restart your server.


After reinstalling, ensure the QBCFMonitorService status shows Running in services.msc.


Step 7: Update QuickBooks and Windows

Outdated software can cause compatibility conflicts. Make sure both are up to date.

  • In QuickBooks, go to Help → Update QuickBooks Desktop.

  • In Windows, go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update.

Install all available updates and restart your system.


Additional Expert Tips

  • Always run QuickBooks Database Server Manager as an Administrator.

  • Avoid running multiple versions of QuickBooks Database Server Manager unless necessary.

  • Keep regular backups of your QuickBooks company files.

  • Use QuickBooks Tool Hub to automatically diagnose and repair network-related issues.

If you continue facing issues, contact QuickBooks-certified experts at +1(866)500-0076 for advanced support.


When QBCFMonitorService Still Fails to Start


If none of the above methods work, it might indicate a deeper system issue such as:

  • Windows service dependency failure.

  • Corrupt registry entries linked to QuickBooks.

  • Broken network configurations.

In such cases, it’s best to get professional assistance to avoid data loss or further configuration damage.


Conclusion


The “QBCFMonitorService not running” error can disrupt QuickBooks operations, especially in multi-user setups. By following the above troubleshooting steps—checking the service, repairing the database manager, configuring the firewall, and updating software—you can usually restore normal functionality.


If you’re still struggling with qbcfmonitorservice not running on server or qbcfmonitorservice not running on your computer, expert help is just a call away. Reach out to QuickBooks Support at +1(866)500-0076 for immediate, professional guidance.

For more reliable QuickBooks troubleshooting tutorials and setup guides, visit QuickBooksupportnet — your trusted source for QuickBooks help.

 
 
 

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