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lee nelson
March 19, 2025
Question

installing 2016 pro desktop on a new pc

  • March 19, 2025
  • 4 replies
  • 0 views

just wondering if any one can help im tring to install 2016 pro onto a new pc i know support has ended for the desktop version but it is stalling at the activation page

is there any way i can get this running on my new pc as i dont want to take it online at the minute

thanks lee

4 replies

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Ivan_G
March 19, 2025

Thanks for dropping your concern here in the Community space, Lee. I'll outline how you can install QuickBooks Desktop (QBDT) Pro 2016.
 

As long as you have your license number and product key handy, you can always install the QBDT Pro 2016 on your new pc. It's essential to note that since this is an outdated edition, you'll have to ensure that your device is compatible with this version.

 

For a comprehensive overview, here are some links from the United States that consist of the following supported QBDT variations in this region and their system requirements:

 

 

Please know that old QBDT releases like Pro 2016 need an older system to run smoothly. Since QuickBooks no longer supports QBDT in the United Kingdom, you can refer to this article from the United States to initiate the installation process: Install QuickBooks Desktop. You can also seek assistance from your IT specialist to ensure the technical accuracy of the procedures needed for this matter.

 

After the installation, you'll be prompted to activate your QBDT. You can manually do so by referring to these steps:

 

  1. Open your QBDT.
  2. Navigate to the Help menu and choose Activate QuickBooks Desktop.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate the software.

 

Additionally, I've added these links you can access to help you verify your QBDT license details, fix issues with your QBDT, and gather complete information about the discontinuation:
 

 

If you have more questions about QBDT installation, click the Reply button. We're always here for you.

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lee nelsonAuthor
March 24, 2025

Hi Ivan

thanks for your reply i have spoken to QB technical the back office are working to get me a validation code

will advise when i hear from them hat they can do

regards lee 🙂

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Paul Jarvis
March 28, 2025

Hello Lee, received a validation code yesterday, have not tested yet as in my case need to re-instal on new PC.

It takes the form of 6 digits xxx xxx.

What about you?

Paul

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Chrea
March 19, 2025

@lee nelson 

You can use the trial version of QB Desktop 2016 as a workaround.

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Paul Jarvis
March 22, 2025

That is incorrect. you need a validation code to activate 2016 before you can access the "trial company".

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Chrea
March 22, 2025

@Paul Jarvis 

That is incorrect. you need a validation code to activate 2016 before you can access the "trial company".

 

I didn't mention about trial company or sample file. You don't need any license code or validation code to install the trial version. The trial version already has a built-in license code.

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Paul Jarvis
March 22, 2025

Hi Lee. In exactly the same situation, 2016 Pro new PC (have working happily on older desktop, but want to see if can get on to a new windows 11 PC) I can confirm 2016 has run fine on my windows 11 desktop for over a year, although this was installed as win 10 and upgraded.

I believe that if you activated your existing installation "online" then there is no validation key to be found in the  "qbregestration.dat" file.

Every post just tells us what we already know.

I did manage to get a "validation key" out of intuit "online Quickbooks" phone support yesterday, tried it with support person still on phone, didn't work.

I really just want a working version so I can access over 20 years of historical data, any thoughts appreciated.

Paul

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lee nelsonAuthor
March 24, 2025

Hi Paul thnaks for the reply i am still waiting for QB to get back to me ref Validation key tried the one they advised as you did, didn't work then advised the "Back Office" will have to work on it and let me know asap

see what they can sort out

cheers lee 🙂

E
Expertise
March 28, 2025

Install quickbooks 2016 on the new computer and use the license and product number, try to validate online and hopefully it will work

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