QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816 - Resolve Database Connection Issues

QuickBooks Error 6189 and 816 means QuickBooks Desktop cannot access your company file due to a database or multi-user connection issue, usually involving your .QBW/.TLG files, hosting, or network setup.

What the error means

The message typically says: “An error occurred when QuickBooks tried to access the company file (-6189, -816).”
It is commonly linked to a mismatch or problem between the company file .QBW.QBW and its transaction log .TLG.TLG, or the file being in use incorrectly in multi-user mode.

Common causes

Improper multi-user hosting (hosting turned on at workstations instead of only on the server).
Damaged or out-of-sync .ND (network) or .TLG (transaction log) files associated with the company file.
Incorrect Windows permissions on the folder containing the company file or firewall/antivirus blocking QuickBooks services.

Quick fixes to try first

Restart the server computer that stores the company file, then restart each workstation and try opening the file again.
Make sure the company file is on a local server drive, not on a mapped network drive to a workstation or in cloud-sync folders like OneDrive/Google Drive/Dropbox.

Recommended repair steps

Install and run the QuickBooks Tool Hub, then use “Quick Fix my Program” and “Company File Issues” as guided to auto-repair common company file and program issues.
From Tool Hub, go to Network Issues and run QuickBooks Database Server Manager on the server to scan the company file folder and repair firewall/hosting settings.

When the error persists

Rename the .ND and .TLG files (QuickBooks will recreate them) and ensure Windows folder permissions give full control to the QB data service user and your Windows users.
If none of these steps work, contact official Intuit QuickBooks support directly through your product or the Intuit support site rather than third-party phone numbers posted in forums. Official guidance warns that random “support” phone posts can be spam or unsafe.