Methods to Fix Windows Firewall is Blocking QuickBooks Issue

You may have QuickBooks firewall ports blocked by your Windows firewall. Your ability to use this application online is therefore limited, which makes it difficult to complete some activities. Specific files get hampered by this issue, which needs to be resolved at the earliest.

H-series network connectivity issues, such as errors H202, H303, H505, and H101, begin to show up when QuickBooks antivirus exclusions are activated. To help stop it from further affecting the user's functioning, you need to address the firewall blocking issue right away.

Common Causes Why Windows Firewall is Blocking QuickBooks Desktop

You must understand the reasons behind the firewall's restriction on QB's ability to connect to the internet to comprehend the resolution process properly. 

QuickBooks is blocked by the Windows firewall for the main reasons listed below:

• As QuickBooks is deemed a threat by Windows Firewall, its connection to the server is blocked. When QuickBooks or Intuit are not included in the firewall's list of trusted websites, this may occur

• QuickBooks Desktop has its ports used for internet and network connections disabled

• Other network issues or typical internet connection issues may also be the cause of QuickBooks' firewall limits

3 Fixes That Work to Resolve the Windows Firewall is Blocking QuickBooks Issue

You should manually adjust your current settings if they are preventing the QB tasks from running smoothly. 

Here's how to go about it:

Method 1: Make a QuickBooks exception in the firewall ports

• Select the Windows button

• Enter Firewall in the search bar

• Click Enter

• Select the Windows Firewall menu item

• Press the Advanced Settings icon

• In the Inbound Rules field, perform a right-click

• Pick the New Rule

• Press the Port button

• Select Next

• TCP is the option

• In accordance with the version of your QuickBooks application, you must now add the required ports

• QuickBooks Desktop 2020: 8019, XXXXX

• QuickBooks Desktop 2019: 8019, XXXXX

• QuickBooks Desktop 2018: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382

• QuickBooks Desktop 2017: 55373-55377, 8019, 56727

• Select Next

• To enable the connection, click on it

• Select Next

• Mark each profile in the window that appears

• Then press Next

• You must now draft a rule

• For convenience, you should name it QBPorts (year)

• Press the Finish symbol

• Now, establish Outbound Rules by repeating the previous procedures

• Do a computer restart

• To see whether the problem has been fixed, access QuickBooks

  
  

Note:- QuickBooks Error 2308 occurs during installation or update resolve it quickly to ensure smooth software functionality and uninterrupted accounting operations.

Method 2: Check the Anti-Virus Preferences

• Click on the Windows icon

• Type Settings into the search bar

• Click Enter

• Go to the Settings tab

• To update and secure, tap the button

• Pick Windows Security

• Click on Protection and Viruses

• Select Manage Settings

• Look for the Exclusions field

• To add or remove exclusions, select Add

• The Add an Exclusion button should be selected

• Now, pick QuickBooks from the range

• Windows Defender will block no more QuickBooks tasks

Method 3: Disable your Windows Firewall

• Move to your Control Panel from the Start menu or the Desktop, whichever is the easiest way to open

• Open the Control Panel window and go to the Windows Firewall tab

• Here, you need to select the Turn Windows Firewall On/Off option

• Next, hit the Disable Firewall option

• After doing so, go back to your QB application and check whether the blockage persists

Conclusion 

This blog was all about the best possible solutions to help you resolve the issue where Windows Firewall is blocking QuickBooks, with three quick steps. Moreover, if you are having any challenges with these steps, you can dial +1(855)-738–0359 to consult our tech experts. 

Windows Firewall is Blocking QuickBooks — Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean when Windows Firewall is blocking QuickBooks?

• It means the firewall is preventing QuickBooks from accessing the network or internet, which can cause issues with payroll updates, multi-user access, or downloading critical updates.

Why does Windows Firewall block QuickBooks applications?

• Firewalls block applications when they are not recognized as safe or when the required network ports for QuickBooks are closed, restricting communication with servers or other computers.

Which QuickBooks features are affected by firewall restrictions?

• Firewall restrictions can prevent QuickBooks from updating payroll, sending and receiving data in multi-user mode, connecting to the internet, or accessing the company file stored on a network.

How can I check if Windows Firewall is causing the problem?

• You can temporarily disable Windows Firewall or check firewall logs for blocked QuickBooks programs. If QuickBooks functions properly after this, the firewall is the cause.

What are the required ports for QuickBooks to work with Windows Firewall?

• QuickBooks uses specific TCP/IP ports for each version. Opening these ports in the firewall ensures communication with servers and other networked computers.

How do I allow QuickBooks through Windows Firewall?

• Manually add QuickBooks executables to the firewall’s allowed list, or configure exceptions for QuickBooks services and company files to ensure uninterrupted access.

Can antivirus software also block QuickBooks like the firewall?

• Yes, some antivirus programs include network protection that can interfere with QuickBooks. Adjusting antivirus settings or creating exceptions for QuickBooks helps maintain functionality.

Is it safe to turn off Windows Firewall to fix QuickBooks issues?

• Turning off the firewall temporarily can help identify the issue, but it is not recommended long-term. Properly configuring exceptions for QuickBooks ensures safety without blocking functionality.

Why do some QuickBooks features work while others are blocked?

• Firewall rules may block specific ports or executable files. Features requiring internet or network access, like updates and multi-user mode, are more likely to be affected.

How do I test if the firewall fix is successful?

• After configuring exceptions or opening ports, restart QuickBooks and try payroll updates, multi-user access, or other network features. Successful operation confirms the firewall was the cause.

What should I do if QuickBooks still cannot connect after firewall adjustments?

• Check for incorrect port settings, ensure the company file is properly hosted, verify network stability, and confirm antivirus settings are not interfering. If needed, escalate to support.

How can I prevent Windows Firewall from blocking QuickBooks in the future?

• Regularly update QuickBooks, configure firewall rules during installation, verify network settings, and maintain proper permissions for company files to ensure smooth operation without interruptions.

Does Windows Firewall affect QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online differently?

• Yes, Desktop relies on local network ports for file access and updates, while Online primarily needs internet access. Firewall rules must allow relevant connections for both versions.

Discover more:- Problems Converting QuickBooks Desktop to Online can cause data transfer issues fix it to migrate company files securely without losing financial information.