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JenniferGrace
December 25, 2021
Question

Can you download and run quickbooks from a portable drive instead of the C drive?

  • December 25, 2021
  • 3 replies
  • 29 views

Would like to download the program to a portable drive so that I can use it on different devices.  I have it loaded on my laptop now,but would like to use a chromebook also.  

3 replies

MaryLandT
MaryLandT
Level 10
December 25, 2021

We don't recommend running QuickBooks from a portable drive, JenniferGrace.

 

One of the system requirements for QuickBooks is to install it on a particular system or environment that was designed for. Hence, you need a 4X DVD-ROM drive for CD installations.

 

I'm adding this link for additional information: System requirements for QuickBooks Desktop 2022. It includes what operating system, hardware, software, and other requirements to run the software.

 

You may use a portable drive if you need to create a backup copy of your company file. Then, move the copy to a local hard drive when restoring the file.

 

Let me provide the steps on how restore the file.

 

  1. In QuickBooks, go to the File menu and select Open or Restore Company.
  2. Select Restore a backup copy, then Next.
  3. Select Local Backup, then Next.
  4. Browse your computer for your backup company file. It should look like this: [Your company name].qbb.
  5. Select a folder to decide where to save your restored company file, then Open.
  6. If you open the backup in the same folder as your existing company file, you may overwrite your data.
  7. When you're ready, select Save.
  8. If you see any messages about possibly overwriting your data, select the option that best fits your needs. Don't overwrite anything unless you know you want to.

 

To avoid overwriting anything, you can rename your existing company file or the backup so the names are unique. Or you can save the backup in a completely separate folder. 

 

If you run into issues while restoring the backup file, here's how to fix them.

 

Keep me posted by leaving a comment below if you have additional questions about installing QuickBooks. I'll be right here to help you through the process.

J
JenniferGraceAuthor
December 27, 2021

Thank you.

    Fiat Lux - ASIA
    Fiat Lux - ASIA
    Level 14
    December 26, 2021

    @JenniferGrace 

    QB Desktop is not designed to run in such way. If you are working solo, you can utilize a remote desktop app as a workaround.

    https://my.splashtop.com/splashtop_referral/AAHHq6GG344maw

     

    J
    JenniferGraceAuthor
    December 27, 2021

    Thanks!

      M
      MichelleR1
      September 8, 2022

      I also have a question about running off the portable drive or backing up and then restoring.  I'm traveling in the next 3 weeks and need to process payroll with direct deposit while gone each week.  I have QB on a larger HP laptop that I DO NOT want to tote around.  My thought was to back up my file to the portable SSD and work through it using a newer Lenovo ThinkPad, but not load QB to Lenovo, and when I return restore back up to the HP. 

      My questions are:  can I work through the portable? and is it possible to use wifi (payroll processing and direct deposit, paystubs) through a portable?

      It's nerve racking because I'm afraid of losing data but I have to do payroll while I'm gone.  I really don't want to put QB on the ThinkPad if not necessary.

      G
      Giovann_GModerator
      Moderator
      September 8, 2022

      Welcome to the Community space, MichelleR1.

       

      I understand that having QuickBooks Desktop installed on a portable drive makes it simple for you to work and process payroll. I'll provide more information about this.

       

      To answer your questions is no since working with QuickBooks and processing payroll through a portable or wifi isn't possible. We're unable to install QuickBooks Desktop on a portable drive since it's designed to work only on a physical drive C. However, you can create a backup of your company file and save it on your portable drive.

       

      Here's how:

       

      1. In QuickBooks, go to the File menu and select Switch to Single-user Mode.
      2. Go to the File menu again and hover over Back up Company. Then click Create Local Backup.
      3. In the window, select Local Backup and then Next.
      4. In the Local Backup Only section, select Browse and choose your portable drive to save your backup file.
      5. This runs a test to ensure your backup file is in good shape before you save it.
      6. When you're ready, hit OK.
      7. Select Save it now and Next.

       

      For your reference, you can read this article for more details: Back up your QuickBooks Desktop company file.

       

      If you want to work and process payroll while you on the go, you may consider switching to QuickBooks Online. You can keep track of your records and process your payroll as long as you have an internet connection: Move your QuickBooks Desktop file to QuickBooks Online.

       

      In addition, I've included the following resource to help you restore a company file stored on a portable drive: Restore a backup of your company file.

       

      You're welcome to post again if you need anything else. We're always available to help you.

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