Last Updated on November 3, 2025
The WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks Desktop can occur during Windows updates. Commonly, it indicates a malfunction in the WDDM (Windows Display Driver Model) service. This problem occurs because the DDL (Data Definition Language) files are damaged or missing. You may experience computer slowdowns, shutdown issues, blue-screen errors, or program lockups.
Therefore, resolving this issue is crucial to continuing your work. To do that, follow this detailed guide, where we will discuss the most common causes of this error to help you understand how this issue arises and how to troubleshoot it.
If you are experiencing technical difficulties troubleshooting the ‘WDDM service not running’ error in QuickBooks, you can call us at +1(855)-738-0359 to speak with an expert who can help fix it.
What Leads to the QuickBooks Desktop WDDM Service Not Running Error?
Before implementing any troubleshooting method, it is essential to know about the factors that trigger the WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks. These are:
- Damaged or lost DLL files
- Incorrect way to reinstall an application
- Damaged installation file or improper way to perform the installation issue
- Viruses or malware affect the computer
After understanding these common reasons, let’s move on to the next section to learn how to troubleshoot this error.
Proven Ways to Fix the WDDM Service Not Running Error in QuickBooks
Now, we will see the troubleshooting methods to fix the WDDM service not running in QuickBooks Desktop.
Method 1: Automate the WDDM Service
There could be a possibility that the WDDM service isn’t set to automatic, for which you should proceed as follows:
- Start by heading to the Start menu and tapping on the Windows icon
- Browse for the Control Panel in the search bar
- Choose the Administrative tool from the Control Panel
- Tap on the Services option
- Locate the WDDM service from the list
- Next, right-tap the WDDM service option
- Now, head to the General tab
- Here, choose the Startup type to Automatic
- End the process by tapping the Apply option
After that, restart your computer and check whether the problem is solved. If you are still experiencing the WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks Desktop.
Method 2: Turn on the Computer in Safe Mode
You should select Restart in Safe Mode from the Advanced Boot options. Carry out the steps below to implement this solution.
- Start by logging in to the system as Admin
- Next, turn on the computer in Safe Mode
- Hopefully, this move will reduce the WDDM issue
- Now, hit the F8 key while booting to ensure that the computer starts in safe mode
- Here, you should check the PC drivers to see whether they are updated or not
- Access the File Explorer on my system
- Next, right-tap on it and select the Manage tab
- Here, access the appeared window on the screen, stating “Find the system tools”, and click on it
- Tap on the Device Manager
- Then, right-tap on any of the Options from the list and verify for Driver updates in the Driver tab
- Ensure to update all the drivers
- Now, verify whether the Windows version is updated to the latest one by following the steps below:
- Start by accessing the Start tab
- Tap on the Settings option
- Head to the Systems tab
- Also, tap on the About option
- Here, you can verify the version under Windows Specifications
Hopefully, the instructions above will help you resolve the issue where the WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks. We advise you to implement the solution mentioned in the given order to avoid any further problems.
A Quick View of the WDDM Service Not Running Error in QuickBooks
Go through this quick-view table to see the condensed version of the information we have covered in this blog.
| Error description | The WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks mainly indicates that there is a malfunction in the Windows Display Driver Model service. |
| Common reasons behind the WDDM service | A malware or a virus on the system, driver installation issue, or problem while updating the .DLL files can cause this error in QuickBooks. |
| Effective fixes to overcome this error | Set the WDDM service to automatic. If this doesn’t work, try booting the system into safe mode. |
Conclusion
This blog covers all the significant information about the WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks Desktop. It outlines the most common causes of this issue and how to troubleshoot it most effectively. All you need to do is try these solutions in the order listed to avoid any technical difficulties.
However, even after following the instructions, if you are still experiencing issues or are unable to resolve this error, contact our QuickBooks experts by dialing the +1(855)-738-0359 and avail professional help.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
The WDDM service not running in QuickBooks error indicates a malfunction in the Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) service. When you come across this problem, your system may slow down, shut down abruptly, or start showing a blue screen error.
You can check if the WDDM service is running on your system by following the easy instructions below:
1. Press the Windows and the R keys together
2. Enter the command “services.msc” in the Run box and hit the Enter key
3. This move will help you access the Services window
4. Locate the Windows Display Driver Model or WDDM in the services list
Lastly, look into the Status column and verify whether the service is running. Now, if it is running, the status will show Started or Running
If you get the QBDBMgrN not running error on your computer, try resolving it by installing Windows firewall updates. If this doesn’t work, restart the QuickBooks Database Server Manager service. You should also check and update your operating system. Lastly, add the QBDBMgrN service to the firewall and its ports.
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.