How to Create QuickBooks Antivirus Exclusion: Full Guide

QuickBooks relies on real-time data access and communication with various system services. However, many antivirus or security software programs mistakenly block or interfere with QuickBooks files and background processes, causing:

• Slow performance

• Crashes and freezing

• File access issues

• Problems with multi-user mode

• Payroll and update failures

To prevent this, you need to create QuickBooks antivirus exclusions, allowing your antivirus to ignore specific QuickBooks folders and files.

Learn how to create QuickBooks antivirus exclusion to avoid performance issues and data interruptions. Call +1-866-409-5111 for expert help.

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Common Symptoms That Require Antivirus Exclusion

If you notice any of the following, antivirus conflict may be the cause:

• QuickBooks won’t open or loads slowly

• Company file errors (e.g., -6000 series)

• QBCFMonitorService or Database Server Manager errors

• Multi-user mode not working

• Payroll updates fail to download

Creating exclusions ensures QuickBooks runs smoothly without being blocked by your antivirus.

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What Is an Antivirus Exclusion?

An exclusion tells your antivirus software to ignore certain folders or programs when scanning. When you exclude QuickBooks files, you reduce the chance of the software mistakenly blocking or deleting important data.

How to Create QuickBooks Antivirus Exclusion

The process varies slightly depending on which antivirus software you're using (Norton, McAfee, Avast, Windows Defender, etc.), but the QuickBooks folders to exclude are the same.

Step 1: Identify QuickBooks Files and Folders to Exclude

Here are the essential paths you should always exclude:

For QuickBooks Desktop (Default Install Paths):

Also exclude these executable files:

• QBW32.exe – QuickBooks main executable

• QBDBMgrN.exe – Database Server Manager

• QBCFMonitorService.exe – Company File Monitor

• IntuitSyncManager.exe – Sync Manager

• QBLaunch.exe – Startup launcher

• AutoBackupExe.exe – Automatic backup tool

Make sure to replace [YourUsername] with your actual Windows username when entering paths.

Step 2: Create the Exclusion in Windows Defender (Example)

If you use Windows Security (built into Windows 10/11):

1. Open Windows Security from the Start menu

2. Go to Virus & threat protection

3. Click Manage settings under Virus & threat protection settings

4. Scroll down to Exclusions, click Add or remove exclusions

5. Click Add an exclusion, then choose Folder

6. Browse and select each QuickBooks folder listed in Step 1

7. Repeat for each file or folder needed

Step 3: Create the Exclusion in Other Antivirus Software

For Norton:

1. Open Norton Security

2. Go to Settings > Antivirus > Scans and Risks

3. Under Items to Exclude from Scans, click Configure

4. Add the QuickBooks folders and files

For McAfee:

1. Open McAfee

2. Go to Real-Time Scanning > Excluded Files

3. Add QuickBooks program files and folders

For Avast:

1. Open Avast

2. Go to Menu > Settings > General > Exceptions

3. Add each QuickBooks path and executable file

🔒 Tip: Always consult your antivirus documentation for the exact steps.

Step 4: Restart Your Computer

After exclusions are added, restart your PC to ensure the antivirus applies the new settings.

Once rebooted, open QuickBooks and check for improved performance.

Step 5: Update QuickBooks and Antivirus Software

Outdated software can still conflict even with exclusions. Make sure:

• Your QuickBooks is updated to the latest release

• Your antivirus software is up-to-date

• Windows is running the latest updates

This ensures compatibility between your tools.

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Bonus: Add Firewall Ports for QuickBooks

In addition to antivirus exclusions, ensure these firewall ports are open:

• QuickBooks 2024: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382

• QuickBooks 2023: 8019, 56727, 55373–55377

• QuickBooks 2022: 8019, 56726, 55368–55372

• QuickBooks 2021: 8019, 56725, 55363–55367

You can do this through Windows Firewall > Advanced Settings > Inbound/Outbound Rules.

Need Help Setting Up QuickBooks Antivirus Exclusions?

Don’t want to risk changing system settings manually? Our certified technicians can guide you through the process or remotely configure your system for optimal QuickBooks performance.

📞 Call Now: +1-866-409-5111
Fast, secure, and available 24/7 for all QuickBooks-related issues.

Final Thoughts

Creating a QuickBooks antivirus exclusion is an essential step to avoid unnecessary interruptions and slow performance. Without these settings, your antivirus may block important files and services that QuickBooks needs to run efficiently.

Whether you're using Windows Defender, Norton, or any third-party software, the process is simple once you know which files and folders to exclude.

Still unsure how to do it? Call +1-866-409-5111 and let a QuickBooks expert handle it for you safely.