You've got me here, @dfloyd8717.
You'll first have to move your company file from your Windows 7 to your Windows 10 computer. Before moving it, make sure that you have already installed QuickBooks Desktop on the new computer. It's also important to know the system requirements for the 2019 version. This ensures that the software is compatible with your new computer to get the best experience in using QuickBooks.
Then, rename your file on the old computer to avoid using the incorrect file. This can be done by creating a backup and restoring your file by performing the steps below:
- Create a backup of your file on your Windows 7 computer.
- Copy the backup file to your Windows 10 computer using either a flash drive or through a network if the computers are connected.
- Restore the backup on your new computer.
For more details, see Solution 1 through this article: Move Your Company Files To Another Computer.
Once transferred, you can start the upgrade process. As Qbteachmt referenced above, QuickBooks Desktop has a 3-year lifecycle. You would need to go from 2012 to 2015/2016 to 2019. Then, restore the file in between.
To upgrade your company file:
- Make sure all users are logged out of your company file.
- Open your new version of QuickBooks Desktop.
- Go to the File menu and select Open or Restore Company.
- Click Restore a backup copy and then click Local backup.
- Browse your computer for your company file. You wrote down the file location in Step 1. Select it and then click Open.
- Sign in to your company file as an admin user.
- Before you upgrade, QuickBooks automatically creates a backup of your existing company file. You can select Change this default location to save the backup in a specific folder.
- Choose Update Now to start the upgrade.
- Click Done.
For more information, see Step 3 through this article: Upgrade Your Company Files.
After that, update QuickBooks so you have the latest software release.
I'd suggest visiting this website: User Guides. You can get do-it-yourself articles, training, and pro advice that will help you get familiar with QuickBooks Desktop.
I'll be right here to help if you need further assistance. Have a great day, @dfloyd8717.
