You see "Error -6000: Problem with the general company file" when trying to open your QuickBooks company file. This error prevents access to your data and is often caused by file path issues, network conflicts, or a stuck Database Server Manager (QBDBMgrN.exe).

The Fix

Start by creating a backup of your company file (.QBW) if possible. Run QuickBooks as Administrator for all steps (right-click its icon > Run as administrator).

Method 1: Clear Stuck Processes & Test the File

This is the fastest fix for multi-user or process-lock issues.

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.

2. Go to the Details tab.

3. End all instances of QBDBMgrN.exe, QBW32.exe, and QuickBooks.exe.

4. Reopen QuickBooks. At the "No Company Open" screen, try opening a sample file. If the sample opens, your company file or its path is damaged. Proceed to Method 2.

If That Doesn't Work:

Method 2: Move and Open from a Local Folder

This resolves most path, permission, or network folder corruption issues.

1. Create a new folder on your Desktop named QBTEST.

2. Navigate to your current company file location (e.g., a server drive).

3. Copy the .QBW file and paste it into the QBTEST folder.

4. Hold the Alt key and open QuickBooks. Go to File > Open or Restore Company and select the file from the QBTEST folder. If it opens, permanently move your working file to a simpler, local path.

If That Doesn't Work:

Method 3: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub

Intuit's official tool automates many repair steps.

1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub.

2. Run it as Administrator.

3. Navigate to the Company File Issues tab and click Run Quick Fix my File. Browse to your .QBW file.

4. Go to the Program Problems tab and click Quick Fix my Program.

5. Restart your computer and try opening the file again.

If That Doesn't Work:

Method 4: Reset Services via PowerShell (Advanced)

Use this for persistent QBDBMgrN.exe or service conflicts. Run PowerShell as Administrator and execute these commands one at a time.

Force stop all QuickBooks processes and services

Get-Service -Name "QuickBooksDB*" | Stop-Service -Force
Get-Process -Name "QBDBMgr*", "QBW32" -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue | Stop-Process -Force

Restart the Database service (replace '34' with your QB version number)
Start-Service -Name "QuickBooksDB34"

Verify no processes remain
Get-Process -Name "QBDBMgr*", "QBW32" -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue

If That Doesn't Work:

Method 5: Final Checks and Reinstall

1. Verify Version: Ensure your QuickBooks installation is the same year and update level as your company file.

2. Check File Properties: Right-click the .QBW file > Properties > Advanced. Ensure "Compress contents" and "Encrypt contents" are unchecked.

3. Repair Install: Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub's Program Problems tab to run Reinstall QuickBooks or perform a clean reinstall from Control Panel.

Verify

The error is resolved when you can open your company file normally and perform all tasks. For multi-user mode, verify all workstations can connect. If the error returns, the cause is likely ongoing network instability, a syncing tool interference, or persistent file damage requiring data recovery.

IT Services - RainCity Techworks
Comprehensive IT services for Seattle and Tacoma businesses. Network management, cloud services, cybersecurity, and more.
RainCity TechworksRainCity Techworks

Related Reading

Need hands-on help? Contact RainCity Techworks.