An application like QuickBooks provides multiple advantages for your small or even large-scale business. But, like any other application, you may encounter errors in QB at times. One such error is QuickBooks error 1601, a common issue that occurs during the update or installation process. The reasons behind this problem are restrictive firewall settings, a virus attack, insufficient permissions, and more. Additionally, it can be due to a damaged Windows Installer or the QuickBooks program itself. Moreover, a network-related issue during the update process can lead to this problem.


But you don’t need to worry —the blog has brought you the simplest resolutions you can use to fix this error. Take a deep dive into the page and explore the details in sequence.


Although the blog covers everything you would need to eliminate QuickBooks error 1601. However, if you still think you should consult a professional, call 1-855-888-3080 for free assistance.

Detrimental Causes Behind QB Installation Error 1601

Here are the factors that might be the reasons behind the error 1601. Let’s have a look at each of them one by one:


  • A damaged Microsoft Installer can be the main reason behind this issue.
  • A restrictive firewall setting prevents QB from getting updated.
  • One reason that can cause this problem is a virus or malware attack.
  • A lack of permission to update QB is another reason behind it.

Ways to Resolve the QuickBooks Error 1601

It must be clear why you encounter QuickBooks error code 1601 from the section above. So, proceed and get the problem fixed.

Solution 1: Update QB Desktop

  • Go to the Help menu.
  • Choose Update QuickBooks Desktop.
  • Tap on the Update Now option.
  • Click on Get Updates.
  • Close QB and restart the computer.

Solution 2: Erase QB and then install it again

Step 1: Remove QB from the system

  • Go to the Start menu.
  • Write Control Panel and open it.
  • Choose Programs and Features or Uninstall a Program.
  • Hover over the program list.
  • Locate and choose the QB version that needs to be erased.
  • After this, tap on Uninstall/Change, Remove.
  • Click on Next.
  • In case the above option is not available to you, sign out and then sign back into Windows as an admin.

Recommended to read: How to fix QuickBooks error 12031 ?

Step 2: Install QB again

  • Access the QuickBooks.exe file.
  • Now, from the following two options, choose one:
  • Express Install - Choosing this option saves all your preferences and installs over the previous QB version.
  • Custom and Network Options - Selecting this option installs the new version in a separate location while keeping the previous version of QB installed. But remember, your older preferences are not added to the latest version.
  • Click Next.
  • Tap Install.
  • Choose Open QuickBooks when everything is done.

What You Should Remember

The post above explains the potential culprits behind QuickBooks error 1601. Along with this, we have presented a couple of solutions to overcome this problem in a very short time. For more information, feel free to call 1-855-888-3080 and discuss your queries with a QB expert.


You may read also: A Simple Approach to Rectify QuickBooks Error PS038