How to Download QuickBooks Desktop for Windows and Mac?

Are you struggling with downloading, installing, or activating QuickBooks Desktop? You’re not alone—many QuickBooks users around the world have faced similar challenges. Luckily, you’ve come to the right place! In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to download QuickBooks Desktop 2024, install, and activate it whether you’re using Windows or Mac.

We’ve also included detailed instructions for download and install QuickBooks Desktop, as well as valuable information about upgrading the software. Plus, we’ve listed the system requirements for both Windows and Mac so you can ensure your computer is ready to run QuickBooks smoothly.

Be sure to bookmark this guide for future reference. It covers everything you need to know in one place, making it easier than ever to get QuickBooks up and running on your computer!

System Requirements for QuickBooks Desktop [Windows & Mac]

Each software program has specific hardware and software requirements to ensure smooth performance, and QuickBooks is no exception. These requirements may include the operating system, RAM, disk space, and software compatibility.

To ensure a smooth installation and uninterrupted experience, check the specific system requirements for QuickBooks Desktop, whether you’re using Windows or Mac.

How to Download QuickBooks Desktop for Windows and Mac 

For the QuickBooks Desktop download, visit the Downloads & Updates page to get the download link for your product. 

• ProAdvisors: Log into the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Center page to download the software 
• Accountants: Log in to the CAMPS to download the software 

To get the software installation file: 

• Visit the Downloads & Updates page, choose your country, product and the version.
• Click on Download.

Find QuickBooks Desktop License Info 

When downloading QuickBooks, you will receive the product license code and information via email if you bought it online or on package on an offline package. 

a. Find your product number, license number, version, and release

For Accountants or ProAdvisors who are on a PAP (ProAdvisor Program) software bundle:

• Log in to camps.intuit.com.
• Choose the appropriate license/subscription type for your installation.
• Click on Products and Services, then select “Show More Products and Details.”
• Select PAP Enterprise Software Bundle, then click Details.
• Click Show More, then select Intuit QuickBooks Desktop Accountant Plus subscription current version to view license and product details for the latest version.

b. QuickBooks Desktop (Pro, Premier, or Enterprise):

• Open QuickBooks Desktop.
• Press the F2 key.
• In the Product Information window, find your product name, product number, and license number.
• Your release will be listed at the end of the product name.
• QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise:

Tip: 

• If you purchased a digital version of QuickBooks Desktop from our website, your product info can be found in the original purchase confirmation email.
• If you bought QuickBooks from a retail store, check the label on the original packaging next to the UPC code for your product details.

Note: If you’ve registered your product, you can always access your info online. Simply visit your account management portal (CAMPS) to find your product and license number.

• In the Version Used on File section, locate your version. The list is sorted by date, with the oldest version at the top and the most recent at the bottom.

c. QuickBooks Basic and Enhanced Payroll (for Desktop)

• Open QuickBooks Desktop.
• Navigate to the Employees menu and choose Payroll Center.
• Select the Payroll tab. Your version will appear in the Subscription Statuses window.

d. QuickBooks Desktop for Mac

• Open QuickBooks Desktop for Mac.
• Go to the Help menu and select Product Information.

Let’s Install QuickBooks Desktop and Activate it 

This section walks you through the detailed steps to install QuickBooks Desktop on both a local computer and a server, along with steps to activate the software. Perform these steps carefully or get in touch with professionals for any queries: 

1. Choose an installation type

Once the QuickBooks Desktop 2024 download is done, locate the QuickBooks.exe file and double-click on it, then proceed with the prompts. The software installer will ask you to choose between the two installation types depending on how you use it: 

• Express install: This option lets you install QuickBooks on the default location and is recommended if you use QuickBooks only on the local computer. 
• Custom and Network Options: This option lets you install QuickBooks in a different location than the default one. This is for multi-user, multi-computer, or server-based setups.

2. Perform an install

a. Express install (Standalone computer)

• Ensure you have an active internet connection.
• Locate the QuickBooks.exe file.
• Choose Express install and click Next.
• Select Install.
• When done, select Open QuickBooks. 

b. Custom and network install (Multi-user network)

Use these steps to install QuickBooks on workstations that access data on a server, or on a dedicated server that hosts your company files. This can also be a Terminal server.

• Make sure you’re connected to the internet.
• Double-click on the QuickBooks.exe file.
• Choose Custom and Network Options, then click Next.
• Select the option that fits your setup:
  • I’ll be using QuickBooks Desktop on this computer: Choose this to install on a workstation.
  • I’ll be using QuickBooks Desktop and storing the company file here: Choose this to install on a server or workstation that will run QuickBooks and store the company file.
  • I won’t be using QuickBooks on this computer, just storing the company file: Choose this to install the Database Manager on a server that only stores the file.
• Click Next.
• If you want to change the installation location, click Change the install location and choose a folder (like the Programs folder).
• Click Next to start the installation.
• When done, click Open QuickBooks to launch the program.

3. Set up network sharing and company files

Understand network setup options

QuickBooks Desktop can be set up in different ways for network access. If you need help with your setup, it’s a good idea to contact an IT expert.

Here are the main options:

• Client-Server Network: The company files are stored on a central server. QuickBooks is installed on each computer (client) and they access the files from the server.
• Peer-to-Peer Network: There’s no dedicated server. One computer has both QuickBooks and the QuickBooks Database Manager installed, and it shares the company file. Other computers only need QuickBooks installed to access the file
• Remote Hosting Services:
  • Local Terminal Server: A server on your network hosts both QuickBooks and the company files. Users connect remotely to use QuickBooks, so it’s not installed on their individual computers.
  • QuickBooks Desktop with Hosting: Intuit partners with Rightworks to provide hosted QuickBooks Desktop. For pricing, check QuickBooks Desktop with Hosting Pricing.
• If you need help deciding which setup is right for you, an IT professional can guide you.

To activate QuickBooks:

• Open QB Desktop. 
• Go to Help and choose Activate QuickBooks Desktop.
• Adhere to the steps on your screen and verify the license info.

Explore the Subscription Plans & Features of QuickBooks Desktop 2024 

With three subscription plans, QuickBooks Desktop lets you choose which features you want in your favorite version, the number of users you can add in the hosting mode, and more. Get an overview of pricing plans and features below: 

Gold	Platinum	Diamond
Basic functionality, business insights, and payroll. Starting at:$1768/1st yrAnnual subscription	Robust functionality with tools for your industry. Starting at: $2173/1st yrAnnual subscription	Maximum functionality and automation. Starting at: $4291/1st yr*Monthly subscription**
Available in 1-10 or up to 30 users	✔	Available in 1-10 or up to 40 users
QuickBooks Desktop Enhanced Payroll (+ up to $3/employee per month)**	✔	✔
Cloud hosting (Additional fees apply)	✔	✔
Online backup data storage	✔	✔
Advanced Reporting	✔	✔
QuickBooks Priority Circle service	✔	✔
Multi-company management	✔	✔
	Intercompany transactions	✔
	Advanced Inventory	✔
	Advanced Pricing	✔
	Bill and PO workflow approvals	✔
		QuickBooks Time Elite(+$10 $5/employee per month)**

Upgrading QuickBooks Desktop

If you’re an existing QuickBooks user but have an older and unsupported version of QuickBooks, we recommend that you upgrade to the latest version available. Currently, QuickBooks Desktop 2024 is the latest version available. Visit Upgrade to a New Desktop for a step-by-step guide.

Conclusion

Thanks for being with us! We are excited to know that you must have set up your QuickBooks accounting Software. Now, you are all set to boost your business growth. We would like to inform you that if you need any further help, contact a QuickBooks expert at +1(866)500-0076. Also, a quick reminder, you can bookmark this blog on Download QuickBooks Desktop.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if my system does not meet the minimum requirements?

If your system fails to meet the requirements of the QuickBooks Desktop 2024, you can upgrade your PC. In case you do not have an option to upgrade your PC, you can move to QuickBooks Online. 

2. How to download and install QuickBooks Desktop 2024?

• Go to download and Updates. 
• Select your country, product, and version in the boxes.
• Click on Download. 
• Save the file to the folder.
• Locate the download file.
• Open the setup.
• Keep your license and product number handy.
• Select Express Install or Custom and Network Options. 
• Click on Install and launch QuickBooks.

3. How to download Intuit QuickBooks Desktop to a new computer?

Within QuickBooks

• Go to the File menu, 
• Click on Utilities.
• Then click on Move QuickBooks to another computer. 
• Now, click on I am Ready and create an OTP.
• Finally, follow the instructions and choose a USB flash drive. 
• Let the files be copied.

4. Can I put my QuickBooks Desktop Pro 2024 on my laptop?

Yes, you are just required to install QuickBooks Desktop on your laptop and restore your company file as a backup. 

5. How can I activate QuickBooks Desktop?

• Download and launch QuickBooks
• Click on the Help menu
• Click on Activate QuickBooks
• Follow the on-screen instructions and verify your details.