(+1(833-742-9500) How do I fix QuickBooks error 3371 status code 11104 after updates?
- haydenleon71
- Apr 11
- 4 min read

QuickBooks Error 3371: Status Code 11104 is a licensing-related issue that blocks you from opening the software. It’s frustrating, especially after updates, when you expect improvements—not roadblocks. If you're seeing this error after updating Windows or QuickBooks Desktop, you're not alone. The good news? It's fixable.
This guide will break down what causes the error, walk you through step-by-step fixes, and answer common questions about it.
What Is QuickBooks Error 3371: Status Code 11104?
This error appears when QuickBooks Desktop can’t load the license data. The error message typically reads:
“Could not initialize license properties. Error 3371: QuickBooks could not load the license data. Status code: 11104.”
This error prevents you from opening QuickBooks. It usually happens after system changes, like Windows updates, new installations, or sudden system shutdowns.
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Causes of Error 3371 Status Code 11104
There are several possible reasons for this error:
Corrupted or Missing License File – The file EntitlementDataStore.ecml, which holds activation data, might be damaged or missing.
Damaged or Missing Microsoft Components – QuickBooks relies on Microsoft MSXML and .NET Framework to run. If these are broken (often after updates), QuickBooks can’t start.
Windows Update Conflicts – Major system updates can overwrite files or reset permissions.
Antivirus or Security Software Interference – Overzealous antivirus programs might block QuickBooks files after an update.
Cloning or Migration of Hard Drives – If QuickBooks was copied to a new system without a clean install, licensing issues can appear.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Step 1: Close QuickBooks Completely
Make sure QuickBooks and all related background processes are closed. Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc), end any QuickBooks processes, and proceed.
Step 2: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub
Intuit's Tool Hub is designed for fixing QuickBooks errors, including licensing problems.
Here’s how to use it:
Download the latest version of the QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit’s official website.
Install and open the tool.
Click on Installation Issues.
Select 3371 Error Fix and let the tool run.
Once it finishes, open QuickBooks again to see if the issue is resolved.
Step 3: Delete the Entitlement File
The entitlement file stores your license information. If it’s corrupt, deleting it forces QuickBooks to regenerate a fresh version.
How to do it:
Open File Explorer and navigate to:
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CopyEdit
C:\ProgramData\Intuit\Entitlement Client\v8
(Use “v6” for older versions of QuickBooks.)
Find and delete the file:
CopyEdit
EntitlementDataStore.ecml
Restart QuickBooks and re-enter your license and product number.
Step 4: Repair Microsoft MSXML Component
This Windows component is required by QuickBooks to load license data.
To fix it:
Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
Type the following command:
nginx
CopyEdit
regsvr32 MSXML6.dll
Press Enter.
You should see a message confirming that the DLL file was registered successfully.
Step 5: Repair QuickBooks Installation
If license or system files were altered during a Windows update, a repair may fix broken program components.
Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features.
Find QuickBooks Desktop, click Uninstall/Change.
Select Repair, and follow the on-screen instructions.
Restart your computer after the repair.
Step 6: Clean Install QuickBooks
If all else fails, a clean installation of QuickBooks may be needed.
Here’s how:
In QuickBooks Tool Hub, go to Installation Issues > Clean Install Tool.
Follow the prompts to uninstall QuickBooks completely.
Download and reinstall QuickBooks from Intuit’s website.
Enter your license info and activate the software again.
Important: Back up your company files before reinstalling.
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Q & A: Error 3371 Status Code 11104
Q1: What’s the difference between Error 3371 codes 11104 and 11118?
A1: Both are license-related errors, but the status code helps pinpoint the cause. 11118 often points to entitlement file issues, while 11104 can involve deeper conflicts, such as corrupted Windows components or improper system configuration after updates.
Q2: I didn’t make any changes, so why did this error appear after a Windows update?
A2: Windows updates can modify shared files like MSXML or .NET Framework, which QuickBooks depends on. Even if QuickBooks itself wasn’t changed, its environment was—and that’s enough to cause license validation to fail.
Q3: Will deleting the EntitlementDataStore.ecml file delete my QuickBooks data?
A3: No. This file only stores license activation data. Your company files, settings, and transactions are stored elsewhere and will remain untouched.
Q4: Do I need to be online to fix this error?
A4: Yes. QuickBooks will need to reconnect to Intuit’s servers to re-validate your license after you delete the entitlement file or reinstall the software.
Q5: How do I know my QuickBooks license is still valid?
A5: You can verify your license and product number by logging into your Intuit account at accounts.intuit.com. If your license is still active, you’ll be able to download and reinstall your version of QuickBooks with no issues.
Q6: Can my antivirus software cause this issue?
A6: Yes. Some antivirus programs (especially free ones) can block QuickBooks from accessing or modifying critical files, especially after updates. If you suspect this is the case, add QuickBooks to your antivirus whitelist or temporarily disable the antivirus and try launching QuickBooks again.
Q7: I moved QuickBooks to a new computer and now I see this error. What should I do?
A7: Always reinstall QuickBooks on a new computer instead of copying files manually. After installation, use your product and license number to activate it properly. Manual transfers can break licensing files and cause Error 3371.
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