QuickBooks Hosting – What are the System Requirements?

Accessing QuickBooks Desktop on the cloud is necessary in current financial scenarios. QuickBooks is a powerful tool most CPAs and Accountants in the States use. Numerous methods can be used to access QuickBooks over the network, ultimately enhancing the tool’s capabilities. Hosting is one such method that has become increasingly popular for businesses of all sizes, offering the convenience and flexibility of cloud-based accounting software.

QuickBooks hosting involves deploying the QuickBooks desktop on a cloud server, allowing businesses to break free from traditional constraints and embrace a more agile and accessible approach to accounting. To ensure optimal performance and a seamless user experience, it is crucial to understand the system requirements for QuickBooks hosting.

Section 1: QuickBooks Hosting System Specification (Local System Requirements)

In order to access the software in a hosted environment, we need to understand the network-based specification. This works via a software client that you download to your Windows or Macintosh computer.

Licensing

QuickBooks Licenses, including QuickBooks Payroll, Payments and other required versions. In case you don’t have a license, purchase it today at a discounted price!

For Windows

The Remote Desktop software you’ll need is built into Windows 8 or later (Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10).

System Requirements

• Properly configured Internet connection (56K or higher; broadband recommended)
• Windows 8 or later-based computer (Windows 8, Windows 8.1 and Windows 10)

For Mac OS X

Download Microsoft’s Remote Desktop Connection client software.

System Requirements

Network:

Broadband or equivalent high-speed connection highly recommended. Satellite internet is not recommended, due to the high level of latency of the connections experience. – Outbound port 3389 needs to be open to connect.

• OS: OS X version 10.3 or newer -Display: ** 1280×1024 or greater (for QuickBooks) recommended.
• Microsoft Remote Desktop 10 is required.

In addition to the minimum system requirements, several additional factors can influence the overall performance and efficiency of QuickBooks cloud hosting. These factors should be carefully considered when setting up or evaluating a hosting solution.

Number of users: The number of concurrent users accessing the QuickBooks hosting environment will impact the hardware requirements. Some of the users working on resource intensive tasks might require more processing power and RAM to handle the increased workload.

Data size: The size and complexity of the business’s accounting data also influences the hardware requirements. Larger data volumes may require more storage space and processing power to manage efficiently.

Security considerations: Implementing robust security measures, such as firewalls, encryption, and strong passwords, is essential to protect sensitive financial data stored in the QuickBooks hosting environment. Always consider the measures implemented by your hosting provider to ensure your QuickBooks files are secure from ransomware.

Section 2: Minimum System Requirements for QuickBooks (Server Requirements)

QuickBooks has certain minimum system requirements that must be met to ensure proper functionality. These requirements typically cover hardware and software, forming the foundation for a robust setup.

Operating System Compatibility: Windows 10 (64-bit), or Windows 11 (64-bit), update/version supported by Microsoft. Windows 8.1, Windows 10 S mode, Windows 11 IOT, and Linux are not supported.

OS Compatibility: Windows Server 2016, 2019, or 2022 (Regular or Small Business Server)

Resources

• Server Side: 8 GB (5 users); 12 GB (10 users); 16 GB (15 users); 20 GB (20+ users)
• Client/Local Desktop: Client RAM: 8 GB RAM; 16 GB recommended

Storage Requirement: Minimum 2.5 GB disk space recommended (additional space required for data files); for optimal performance, use SSD

Integration with other software

• Microsoft Word and Excel integration requires Office 2016-2021, or Microsoft 365 (64-bit)
• Email Estimates, Invoices, and other forms with Microsoft Outlook 2016 – 2019, Microsoft 365 (64-bit), Gmail™, and Outlook.com®, and other SMTP-supporting email clients—integration with QuickBooks POS 19.0.
• Transfer data from Quicken 2016-2022, QuickBooks Mac/Mac Plus 2021-2024 (US only), Microsoft Excel 2016 – 2021, Microsoft 365 (64-bit)

Explore more QuickBooks add-ons and integration.

• Browser requirement: Google Chrome, Safari, Mozilla
• Data management: Uses AES-256 for data encryption for all PCI and PII data
• Operational security: PCI PA-DSS certified, assessed annually as a payment application

Hardware Requirements:

Processor: An Intel Core i3 or equivalent processor is the minimum recommended configuration. However, a more powerful processor, such as an Intel Core i5 or i7, is recommended for more demanding tasks and heavier data loads.

Screen Resolution:

Optimized for 1280×1024 screen resolution or higher. Supports one Workstation Monitor, plus up to 2 extended monitors. Optimized for Default DPI settings.

Section 3: Optimizing Performance for Cloud-based QuickBooks

While meeting the minimum system requirements is essential, regular maintenance and optimization practices further enhance the performance and efficiency of QuickBooks hosting. These practices help ensure that the hosting environment continues to meet the evolving needs of the business.

Regular software updates: Ensuring timely software updates for QuickBooks and the hosting platform helps to maintain optimal performance and address any potential security vulnerabilities.

Data optimization:

• Regularly optimizing data files by removing duplicates
• Compressing data
• Archiving older records can reduce file size and improve performance, especially for large data volumes

Hardware upgrades: If performance bottlenecks occur due to increased data loads or user traffic, consider upgrading hardware components such as the processor, RAM, or storage to accommodate the growing demands.

It’s important to note that the system requirements may change based on updates to QuickBooks or changes in the hosting provider’s infrastructure.

Conclusion

QuickBooks hosting requirements form the foundation for a robust and reliable IT infrastructure for Tax Preparers and Accounting firms. By meticulously assessing and meeting these requirements, businesses can unlock the full potential of hosted applications, fostering efficiency, collaboration, and scalability.

Ace Cloud doesn’t just host QuickBooks; we elevate the entire hosting experience. From security and scalability to seamless integration and expert support, we’re committed to delivering a hosting solution that empowers your business.

Choose Ace Cloud for QuickBooks Desktop Hosting services, where innovation and reliability converge to optimize your financial management processes. Get a 7-day free trial for cloud-hosted QuickBooks with us and elevate your QuickBooks accounting experience.