How to Fix QuickBooks Error 1904?

The dependence of QuickBooks Desktop accounting software on Windows components makes it vulnerable to errors. Most of these errors occur either immediately after the installation of QuickBooks on a Windows system or after an upgrade. During such a process, there is invariably a change in the configuration that affects the compatibility of Windows components with QuickBooks. One such error is QuickBooks Error 1904. The good news with QuickBooks error 1904 is that unlike some of the other fatal errors, there is usually no issue with accounting data or company files. In this blog, we will probe the error message in detail and explore the options to fix it.

What Causes QuickBooks Error 1904?

The most likely reason for QuickBooks Error 1904 is damaged Windows components like Visual C++ files. There are often issues with dlls that could trigger the error. It is not uncommon to encounter the error after updating software like Adobe Flash. Below are some reasons which users might see QuickBooks Error 1907.

• Compatibility issues after installing updates or upgrading Windows Operating System.
• Damage to QuickBooks installer file.
• Migrating to QuickBooks Desktop from another version.
• Interruption in the installation process by security applications.
• Lack of permissions.

What Symptoms Can Be Expected with QuickBooks Error 1904?

As with all other QuickBooks errors, QuickBooks error too is accompanied by a message detailing the file path, name, extension or other modules that failed to register. Below are some of the symptoms of QuickBooks Error code 1904.

• Inability to work with QuickBooks account data and company files.
• QuickBooks UI does not open after the message pops up.
• The system might lag and load other applications slowly.
• Users might not be able to provide input to the system via a keyboard or mouse while they see the error.

What Are the Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error 1904?

Troubleshooting QuickBooks Error 1904 primarily involves making configuration changes that would make the software application compatible with the Windows Operating System. Follow the steps below diagnose and resolve the issue.

Step 1: Use QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool

The QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool is available in the QuickBooks Tool Hub. It is the simplest method of resolving most installation errors such as repairing damaged files on QuickBooks Desktop. Ensure that the QuickBooks Desktop application is closed before running the scan with the tool.

• Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub (QuickBooksToolHub.exe) and run it.
• Select Installation Issues in the options once the application opens and select QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool.
• Restart the system and re-open the QuickBooks application.

Step 2: Manage Security Settings

Sometimes, the antivirus or firewall settings might prevent certain QuickBooks files from being executed. While the steps would be different for each antivirus software, the idea is to include QuickBooks files to the exclusion list.

Step 3: Open QuickBooks Desktop with the Built-In Admin Account

The UAC (User Account Control) will be turned off when users open an application with the built-in admin account. The restrictions on applications will be lifted in this mode and that could, in turn, resolve the issue. This step is only for diagnosing the issue while running QuickBooks and not a permanent solution. Follow the instructions below for applying the method.

• Try saving a test note from the file menu in Notepad in either “C:\Program Files\Common Files” or “C:\Program Files(x86)\Common Files” depending on the Windows version.

If you are unable to save it, try reinstalling QuickBooks as an administrator.

• Press the Windows button on the keyboard and search for CMD.
• Open the file with the Run as Administrator option.
• Type in net user administrator /active: yes (or net user administrator /active if you see an error) and press enter.
•  Switch to the Default Admin Account with the Switch User option.
• Navigate to C:\Program Files\Common Files on the File Explorer.
• Right-click it and open Properties.
• Navigate to the Security tab and click on Edit.
• Pick Users in the “Group or user names” section.
• Turn on Modify, Read & execute, List folder contents, Read, and Write permissions in the “Permissions for Users” section.
• Click on Apply and press OK.
• Reinstall QuickBooks.
• Sign in with the regular account.
• Hide the administrator account if other users also use the system. Type in “net user administrator /active:no” in the command prompt after choosing the Run as administrator option.

Step 4: Remove Adobe Flash Player

A recent installation of the Adobe Flash player can hamper the normal functioning of QuickBooks Desktop. While this is relatively rare, reinstalling the software might resolve QuickBooks Error 1904.

• Navigate to the Control Panel from the Start menu.
• Click on Uninstall a Program and select Adobe Flash Player ActiveX from the list.
• Uninstall and Reinstall the software.

The Alternative Method to Fix QuickBooks Error 1904

If you are unable to fix QuickBooks Error 1904 with any of the steps stated above, you might require the assistance of a qualified IT professional. The inability to fix the problem may be indicative of an underlying generic issue that might require deeper intervention. Alternatively, you can opt for hosted QuickBooks that allows you to use the software without worrying about these issues.

As an Intuit approved QuickBooks hosting service provider, Apps4Rent provides QuickBooks hosting services to several clients across the globe. Our experts provide 24/7 support via phone, chat, and email for all technical issues. Contact us to know more.