QuickBooks is a software that helps businesses manage, create, and handle their finances and transaction reports. It allows you to access all the resources and business credential information. At the same time, it provides you with a License number and product code to access the benefits for your software version. These numbers or keys are used to activate the software version, ensuring that those who have the product key can use it.
However, you might encounter the QuickBooks license error after clone when you copy QB Desktop’s hard drive data when moving from one system to another. This problem can lead to activation or licensing issues in your QBDT software, resulting in inoperative commands within the software. We will address this problem in this blog.
Errors Associated with QuickBooks License Error after Clone
There are multiple errors associated with the QuickBooks Desktop License Error. Here is the list of other errors:
- Reconfiguration Error of QuickBooks Desktop.
- Online License Data Sync is disabled.
- Subscription to the Accountant’s Copy File Transfer Service.
- Error Code 3371: License Properties are not initialized.
- QuickBooks is not registered, and the user is unable to use online banking.
After knowing about the errors associated with this problem, let’s learn about the causes of this error.
Main Contributors to QuickBooks License After Clone Error
Here are the possible culprits that can cause the QuickBooks license error after clone to happen and cause trouble for your QuickBooks Desktop.
- If the MSXML files are damaged or corrupted, you will be unable to launch the QuickBooks Desktop version.

- The QBregistration.dat files assist in the installation of QuickBooks versions for validating the license.
- The MSXML files are a type of Microsoft component file that helps recover data in the event of a system data loss or corruption problem.
- When the OS version is outdated or old.
- If the antivirus or firewall settings are blocking QuickBooks Desktop from performing operations.
- QuickBooks operations are getting interrupted by any third-party running programs.
After learning about the possible reasons, we will learn how to fix the QuickBooks License error after clone.
Related Post: Top 6 Ways To Fix QuickBooks Error QBW32.exe (Application Error)
Quick and Easy Fixes for QuickBooks License Error after Clone
You may go through the following methods to fix this QuickBooks license error after clone. Steps are provided in a detailed format for your better understanding.
Solution 1: Delete QuickBooks Entitlement Data Files
If any of the files get corrupt, you can’t register the files, as QuickBooks can’t detect them. EntitlementDataStore.ecml is a type of file that stores the product keys and license information in an encrypted format.
- Press the Ctrl+Shift+Esc keys simultaneously on your keyboard to access the Task Manager.
- Move to the Processes tab.
- Right-tap on the qbw32.exe file and choose the End Task option.
- Click on the Yes button to eliminate the task properly.
- Press the Windows + R button and write the location C:\ProgramData\Intuit\Entitlement Client\v8 (or v6).
- Click on OK and locate the file.
- Delete the folder by right-clicking on the folder.
If you continue to experience QuickBooks Desktop License Error after trying these steps, proceed with the following troubleshooting method.
Solution 2: Update the Operating System version
Update the Windows OS to the latest available version. Follow the given steps.
- Tap on the Windows Start button and search for “Windows Update.”
- Click “Check for Updates” from the System Update list.
- Click on the ‘Install Updates‘ button if updates show up.
- Restart the system after installation.
- Try registering your product keys in QuickBooks after the updates are done.
The QuickBooks Desktop Product License error might be resolved through this. Run the QuickBooks File Doctor. Follow the next troubleshooting steps.
Solution 3: Launch the QuickBooks File Doctor
You need to download the QB Tool Hub to access and run the QuickBooks File Doctor by following these steps.
- Launch the QuickBooks Tool Hub and click the Company file issues tab.

- Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor under the Company Files Issues tab.
- Let the File Doctor run and wait for it to complete the process.
Even after running the QuickBooks File Doctor, you still face this issue. Move to the next solution.
Solution 4: Run the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool
You need to clean install QuickBooks Desktop to perform a deep cleaning of your system.
This will rid your computer of the malicious files.
Next, try performing the same QB operations.
Solution 5: Disable the Antivirus Program
There are times when antivirus software blocks QB operations from being performed. Try disabling the antivirus program to allow the tasks to be performed.
- When your antivirus is running in the background, it can be seen on your taskbar; to do this, click the up arrow button.
- Right-click on the antivirus software logo running in the background.
- Click on the Temporarily disable button.
Now, try accessing QuickBooks again and registering the license key. If you continue to face this problem even after disabling the antivirus system, proceed to the next step.
Solution 6: Eliminate the Third-Party Software
To eliminate unnecessary tasks running in the background, follow the steps mentioned below.
- Close the QBDT version if it is in use.
- Press the Ctrl+Shift+Esc keys on the keyboard to access the Task Manager.
- Look for the processes that are unnecessary and not in use.
- Right-click on the programs and click on the End Task button.
Now, try reaccessing QuickBooks and check if the problem persists.
Quickview Table for QuickBooks License Error after Clone
Tabulated below is a summary of the blog that provides a concise overview of the QuickBooks license error after clone.
Error description | QuickBooks Desktop Product License errors |
Symptoms | QuickBooks is not accessible, the QBDT is unable to verify the license key, and the current version contains an additional copy of the previous version. |
Causes | If the MSXML file is damaged, the dat files cannot validate the installation process, and the Windows OS version is not up to date. |
Troubleshooting Methods | Remove the Entitlement files, update the OS version of your system, launch the QuickBooks File Doctor, disable your antivirus system, and run the QuickBooks clean installation tool. |
Conclusion
Mostly, users often face the QuickBooks license error after clone, which may occur due to several possible reasons. This error hinders users’ productivity and causes complications when copying data from one hard drive to another. We have listed some possible solutions to resolve this error. If you need professional support, then our QB experts are just a call away. Reach out at +1(855)-738-0359!
Frequently Asked Questions
When the QuickBooks license error after clone pops up. Here are some fixes you can try to resolve this error.
1. QuickBooks Entitlement Data File should be deleted to avoid this error.
2. Move to the latest version of Windows available.
3. Disable your antivirus software temporarily.
To transfer QuickBooks from one system to another, you need to copy the data from your hard disk for the transfer process. Using the product keys and license enables you to access your QuickBooks data and information from another system.
Tap F2 on the keyboard to access the essential information for your QuickBooks version. This window will allow you to view the product ID, version, and license number of your QuickBooks version.

Kate is a certified public accountant (CPA) with expertise in various accounting software. She is technically inclined and finds passion in helping businesses and self-employed people carry out bookkeeping, payroll, and taxation without worrying about errors. Every once in a while, Kate loves to travel to far-off places and relax in the lap of nature.