Problem Overview
QuickBooks Error 15243 occurs when the File Copy Service required for QuickBooks installation or updates is not running or not properly configured. This service is essential for copying installation files and managing updates.
Common Symptoms
- Installation fails with error 15243
- "File Copy Service not running" message
- Update installation fails
- Cannot copy installation files
- Service-related timeout errors
Common Causes
- File Copy Service disabled
- Service permissions issues
- Corrupted service files
- Windows service conflicts
- Antivirus blocking service
Quick Resolution
- Start File Copy Service manually
- Set service to automatic startup
- Check service permissions
- Run services as Administrator
- Restart related services
Step-by-Step Solution
Manually start the File Copy Service and set it to automatic startup.
- Press Windows Key + R, type services.msc and press Enter
- Scroll down and find File Copy Service in the services list
- Right-click on File Copy Service and select Properties
- Set Startup type to Automatic
- Click Start to manually start the service
- Click Apply and OK
Note: If the File Copy Service is missing, you may need to reinstall QuickBooks or use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to repair the installation.
Restart services that work with the File Copy Service to resolve dependencies.
- Open Services (services.msc) as Administrator
- Restart the following services in order:
• Windows Installer
• Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS)
• Cryptographic Services
• Windows Update
• File Copy Service (if present)
- Set each service to Automatic startup type if not already set
- Try the QuickBooks installation again
Important: Restart services in the order listed to ensure proper dependency resolution.
Verify that services have proper permissions to run and access required files.
- Open Services (services.msc) as Administrator
- Right-click File Copy Service and select Properties
- Go to the Log On tab
- Ensure Local System account is selected
- Check Allow service to interact with desktop
- Click OK and restart the service
// Alternative method using Command Prompt (Admin):
sc config "File Copy Service" obj= LocalSystem
sc config "File Copy Service" type= own
net start "File Copy Service"
Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to automatically diagnose and fix service issues.
- Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit's website
- Run the Tool Hub as Administrator
- Go to the Installation Issues tab
- Click QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool
- Follow the prompts to diagnose and fix installation issues
- Restart your computer when prompted
Success Tip: The QuickBooks Tool Hub can automatically detect and fix many service-related issues that cause Error 15243.
Re-register critical Windows services that may be corrupted or improperly configured.
- Press Windows Key + X and select Command Prompt (Admin)
- Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
net stop msiserver
msiexec /unregister
msiexec /regserver
net start msiserver
net stop bits
sc config bits start= auto
sc config bits binpath= "C:\Windows\System32\svchost.exe -k netsvcs"
net start bits
- Restart your computer after running these commands
- Try the QuickBooks installation again
Warning: Be careful when modifying service configurations. Only use these commands if you're comfortable with system administration.
Service Management Guide
Service Configuration
Configure service startup types, set proper permissions, manage dependencies, and verify service integrity.
Permission Management
Set service logon accounts, configure interactive desktop access, and manage service security permissions.
Diagnostic Tools
Use QuickBooks Tool Hub, Windows Event Viewer, and service management tools to diagnose service issues.
Service Recovery
Configure service recovery options, restart dependencies, and use command-line tools for service management.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the File Copy Service and why does QuickBooks need it?
The File Copy Service is a Windows service that manages file copying operations during software installation and updates. QuickBooks requires this service to copy installation files, apply updates, and manage component installations. When this service is not running or properly configured, QuickBooks cannot complete installation or update processes, resulting in Error 15243.
Can antivirus software block the File Copy Service?
Yes, antivirus and security software commonly block or interfere with the File Copy Service. Security programs may prevent the service from starting, block its access to required files, or quarantine service components they mistakenly identify as threats. Temporarily disabling your antivirus during QuickBooks installation or configuring exceptions for QuickBooks processes often resolves this issue.
What if the File Copy Service is missing from my Services list?
If the File Copy Service is missing from your Services list, it may be corrupted, disabled, or not properly installed. You can try reinstalling QuickBooks, using the QuickBooks Tool Hub to repair the installation, or running system file checker (sfc /scannow) to repair Windows system files. In some cases, the service may be present but with a different name or as part of another service like BITS (Background Intelligent Transfer Service).
How can I prevent Error 15243 in the future?
To prevent Error 15243, ensure that critical Windows services are set to automatic startup, keep your Windows system updated, regularly run the QuickBooks Tool Hub maintenance tools, configure antivirus exceptions for QuickBooks processes, and avoid interrupting QuickBooks installations or updates. Also, regularly backup your QuickBooks data and create system restore points before major updates.