Farewell to QuickBooks Desktop Professional 2021: Navigating the Transition

Upgrading to QuickBooks 2024 Desktop Pro and your accounting team will thank you.

Upgrade to QuickBooks Desktop Professional 2024

As of May 31, 2024, QuickBooks Desktop Professional 2021 will reach its end of life. This transition marks a significant shift for many businesses that rely on this widely popular platform for their accounting needs. It’s essential to understand what this change means, the services that will no longer be available, and the options for upgrading or migrating to a viable solution that works for your organization. The desktop version of QuickBooks has been the most coveted software title for a majority of small businesses for decades. This move by Intuit is part of the grand plan to move all of their software titles to subscription based options only. Love it or hate it, it is what it is.

What’s Changing?

End of Life for QuickBooks Desktop Professional 2021 means that after May 31, 2024, Intuit will no longer support this version. This end of support affects the following services:

1. Security Updates: Intuit will no longer release security patches or updates to protect your data from vulnerabilities. This exposes your systems to potential security risks. Security incidents can lead to data breaches and ransomware attacks.
2. Technical Support: Intuit’s customer service team will no longer provide technical assistance for this version. I can’t imagine how frustrating that will be for people. Our team provides daily support to clients leveraging QuickBooks for their accounting/inventory needs.
3. Critical Service Discontinuation:

• Payment Processing: Services like QuickBooks Payments will be unavailable.
• Payroll Services: QuickBooks Payroll will not work with the 2021 version.
• Bank Feeds: Automatic banking transactions will cease to function.
• Online Backup and Services: Any cloud-based services connected to QuickBooks Desktop 2021 will be discontinued. Orange County Computer can help.

Upgrade Options

To continue enjoying seamless accounting services and avoid potential security risks, you have two main paths: upgrading one final time to QuickBooks Desktop 2024 and begin paying an annual subscription fee. Although 2024 QB Desktop is subscription based, it is still physical software that can be utilized on premise or virtualized into your private cloud infrastructure. Option 2 would be to say goodbye and move to the online version of QuickBooks.

Upgrading to a Newer Desktop Version

QuickBooks Desktop 2024 is the latest version offering robust features and improved security. Here’s why upgrading to the latest desktop version might be beneficial:

• Enhanced Security: New versions receive regular security updates.
• Advanced Features: Improved tools and functionalities to streamline accounting processes.
• Compatibility: Better integration with third-party apps and services.
• Use of Existing Hardware/Network Environment: You can continue to access QuickBooks that way you always have, with greater features, on your terms.

To upgrade, you can purchase the new version directly from Intuit or from an authorized reseller like Orange County Computer. Regardless of your choice, we are happy to help your organization in this transition by providing:

• Consulting Services: We can evaluate your current processes and recommend the best version to upgrade to.
• Data Migration: Ensuring all your data transfers smoothly without loss.
• Upgrade and Setup: Setting up the new software on your systems and ensuring it runs perfectly.
• Training: Offering training sessions for your staff to get acquainted with the new features.

Moreover, the Nerds at Orange County Computer can virtualize your QuickBooks Desktop 2024 software subscription. This allows you to continue utilizing the benefits of the desktop version while enjoying the flexibility and remote access typically associated with online solutions. Virtualization ensures that you maintain the robust functionality and performance of QuickBooks Desktop with added accessibility.

Moving to QuickBooks Online

For those considering moving to the cloud, QuickBooks Online offers several advantages:

• Accessibility: Access your data from anywhere, anytime, on any device.
• Automatic Updates: Always be up-to-date with the latest features and security patches.
• Integration: Easy integration with various third-party applications.
• Scalability: Suitable for businesses of all sizes with different pricing tiers.

Steps to Move Online:

1. Evaluate Needs: Determine if QuickBooks Online suits your business requirements.
2. Data Migration: Utilize tools provided by Intuit or seek professional help to transfer data.
3. Setup and Customization: Customize the online platform to align with your accounting processes.
4. Training: Ensure your team is trained to use the upgraded application efficiently.

Orange County Computer can facilitate this move by providing:

• Migration Services: Secure and efficient transfer of your data to QuickBooks Online.
• Setup and Integration: Customizing the online platform for your specific needs.
• Support and Training: Ongoing support and comprehensive training for your staff.

Why Choose Orange County Computer?

Our team is committed to providing seamless transitions, whether upgrading your desktop version, virtualizing your QuickBooks Desktop 2024, or moving to the cloud. Our expertise ensures minimal disruption to your business operations with:

• Expert Consultation: Personalized advice tailored to your business needs.
• Professional Data Migration: Safe transfer of data with integrity.
• Comprehensive Support: From installation to troubleshooting, we cover it all.
• Training and Education: Empowering your team to maximize the new system’s potential.

Final Thoughts

The end of life for QuickBooks Desktop Professional 2021 may seem daunting, but with the right support and planning, the transition can be smooth and beneficial. Whether upgrading to the latest desktop version, virtualizing your QuickBooks Desktop, or moving to QuickBooks Online, staying ahead ensures your business remains secure and efficient.

For personalized assistance and to ensure a seamless transition, contact Orange County Computer. Let us help you navigate this change and continue to thrive in your business operations.