QuickBooks Desktop 2024 is the latest release acclaimed small business accounting software. With powerful new features like automated bank reconciliation, customizable reporting, expanded inventory management, and AI-powered insights, it’s poised to be one of their most impressive updates yet!
But before you rush to download the new version, it’s essential to ensure your computer system can handle everything this robust program has to offer. While QuickBooks aims to be accessible for most PCs, you’ll need to meet specific hardware and software requirements to run QuickBooks Desktop 2024 smoothly.
Minimum System Requirements for QuickBooks Desktop 2024
The basic system requirements for QuickBooks Desktop 2024 for Windows are:
1 – Operating System: Windows 10 or higher (64-bit only).
2 – RAM: 8 GB or more recommended.
3 – Hard Disk Space: 3 GB free space required for installation.
4 – Monitor Resolution: 1280 x 768 or higher.
5 – Internet Connection: Required for initial installation/activation, after that optional.
6 – Other: Microsoft .NET Framework 4.6.2 or later.
Some additional requirements may apply for advanced features like multi-user access. We’ll break the requirements down in more detail below.
Operating System Compatibility
QuickBooks Desktop 2024 only supports 64-bit versions of Windows 10 or higher. This includes:
- Windows 10 (64-bit)
- Windows 11 (64-bit)
Earlier Windows operating systems like Windows 7 and Windows 8.1 are not supported.
Make sure to download and install the latest Windows updates before running QuickBooks Desktop 2024 for best performance.
RAM – Why 8GB or More is Recommended
QuickBooks Desktop 2024 will run on a system with 4GB of RAM, but we recommends 8GB or higher.
Why? Because more RAM allows the software to run faster while multitasking. QuickBooks Desktop often runs alongside other programs like web browsers, Office software, email clients, etc. With 8GB+ of memory, you can comfortably jump between QuickBooks and other apps without significant slowdowns.
For context, 8GB of RAM is standard on most modern Windows machines. Upgrading to 8GB or 16GB of memory is an easy and affordable boost if needed.
Hard Disk Space for Installation
You’ll need at least 3GB of free space on your computer’s hard drive for installing QuickBooks Desktop 2024.
After installation, your company file database will take up additional space depending on the volume of transactions, number of accounts, etc. Budget at least 1GB per company file database to be safe.
During installation, pick a local drive (C:/, D:/) with ample free disk space. Don’t install to an external drive that could be disconnected.
Monitor Resolution
To comfortably use the QuickBooks Desktop interface, a monitor resolution of at least 1280 x 768 is recommended.
Higher resolutions like 1920 x 1080 (1080p) or 2560 x 1440 (1440p) are ideal. At lower resolutions, some elements of the interface may feel cramped.
Adjust your display settings to the highest resolution your monitor can handle before installing QuickBooks.
Internet Connectivity
You’ll need an internet connection to download QuickBooks Desktop 2024 and activate your license.
After this initial setup, QuickBooks does not require an active internet connection to run. You can use the software offline once installed and activated.
However, note that some features will be limited in offline mode:
- Syncing data with QuickBooks Online will be paused.
- Bank feeds and credit card downloads won’t update.
- You won’t have access to payroll, payment processing, accountant sharing, or other online services.
- App integrations may not sync properly.
For complete, seamless access to all features, maintain an internet connection whenever possible. But occasional offline access is certainly an option.
Microsoft .NET Framework
QuickBooks Desktop 2024 requires Microsoft .NET Framework 4.6.2 or higher.
.NET Framework is an essential component of many Windows applications. Most Windows PCs will already have a compatible version installed.
If not, QuickBooks Desktop 2024 will attempt to install .NET Framework 4.6.2 during the initial setup. Make sure to grant admin permission when prompted.
If your organization has locked down software installations, you may need your IT team to manually install the .NET Framework before deploying QuickBooks.
Which Version of QuickBooks Desktop Should You Choose?
Now that you know the system requirements, which edition of QuickBooks Desktop 2024 should you choose?
Here’s a quick rundown of the options:
QuickBooks Pro: For basic small business accounting needs. Supports up to 3 users.
QuickBooks Premier: Adds advanced reporting and inventory features. Supports up to 5 users.
QuickBooks Enterprise: Designed for more complex mid-sized businesses. Supports up to 30 users.
Choose the edition that best fits your company’s size, accounting needs, and budget. Each scales to meet growing business demands.
Ready to Experience the New QuickBooks Desktop 2024?
We hope this overview gives you confidence that your Windows PC can handle the latest version of QuickBooks Desktop for smoother accounting. Avoid frustrations by verifying your system requirements before installation.
Further Reading
How to Change Password of QuickBooks Desktop
How to Change Font Size of QuickBooks Desktop