Improving QuickBooks performance

If QuickBooks is not running at the speed you want it then there are some things you can try to speed it up, I have compiled a list of items from articles on the web that you can try to improve performance, no two QuickBooks setups are the same, so whilst some of these may have no apparent improvement others will. The secret to it is tweaking until you get what you need. As always back up your company file before attempting any of these.

Good luck.

Dedicated QuickBooks Data File Server

• Make sure that you are using at least the minimum system requirements, your local QuickBooks website or your user manual will tell you what the minimum specification you need to run QuickBooks. 
• To get the maximum performance where cost is not a factor I always recommend to use a dedicated server for the QuickBooks data file which has a very good hardware specification. It is generally not worth penny pinching when it comes to buying a server. When setting up your server carefully follow the instructions provided in the network set up documentation, getting it wrong will cause loss of performance.
• Hard Disk – Internal, RAID, 7200-10000 rpm, at least 5 gb of unallocated disk space and regularly defragment. Avoid external hard drives. 
• RAM: Aim for 3 gb over the minimum requirement for QuickBooks
• Processor: The higher powered the better.
• Network: Use a 100 mbps hard wired network, wireless is nice and tidy but will detract from network performance and can drop in an out. Minimize network traffic by carefully considering what services and resources really need to be on your server.

Software configuration

1. Anti-virus software: If you run real time scanning configure so that the QuickBooks program folder is not constantly being scanned this will hog system resources, a periodic scan is normally all you need.
2. Desktop search software: If you are running desktop search software such as Google desktop consider switching this off as it can consume significant resources.
3. Firewall configuration: Ensure your firewall software is configured correctly to allow QuickBooks and its application to access the internet
4. Older versions of QuickBooks: If you have older version of QuickBooks installed then uninstall them, this will help start up performance.

QuickBooks Setup

1. Configuring QuickBooks Enterprise Memory Caches - please follow these instructions offered by the Insightful Accountant blog
2. Logging out: If you are not regularly using QuickBooks then log out.
3. Running reports: Where necessary minimize the number of reports you run
4. Reminders and memorized transactions: Reduce the number of reminders and memorized transactions you have will improve the start up time
5. Periodically clean up your company file: Use the company file clean up procedure periodically to remove old list items and obsolete transaction data.