QuickBooks Error 140305 in Point of Sale – Learn How to Fix It Quickly

jakkibhasker

posted on 1 day ago — updated on 1 second ago

75
views

QuickBooks Point of Sale (POS) is a retail management solution trusted by businesses of all sizes to manage sales, inventory, and customer data. However, even robust software like QuickBooks POS isn’t immune to occasional technical glitches. One such common and disruptive issue is QuickBooks Error 140305. This error typically appears when the POS system fails to communicate with Intuit’s servers, particularly during synchronization or updates.

In this article, you'll learn what causes QuickBooks POS Error 140305, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to fix it quickly and efficiently. If you need immediate assistance, you can reach QuickBooks POS help at 1-877-200-7013.

What is QuickBooks POS Error 140305?

QuickBooks Error 140305 is a connectivity or communication error between the POS system and Intuit’s servers. It typically occurs when trying to perform actions such as:

Synchronizing data with the server
Registering the software
Downloading updates
Processing data from multi-user systems

The error is often presented with a message like:

“Error 140305: QuickBooks Point of Sale cannot connect to the server.”

This can halt daily operations, delay transactions, and interrupt customer service, making it critical to resolve the issue swiftly.

Common Causes of Error 140305

Understanding the root causes of QuickBooks POS Error 140305 can help you troubleshoot more effectively. Here are the most common reasons:

Weak or unstable internet connection
Windows Firewall or third-party security software blocking access
Outdated QuickBooks POS version
Incorrect date and time settings on the computer
Corrupted or damaged POS system files
Issues with the Entitlement Client folder
Digital signature problems with QuickBooks executables
User permission limitations or lack of admin rights

Symptoms of Error 140305 in QuickBooks POS

You may be experiencing this error if you observe:

Sync operations failing repeatedly
Inability to download updates
Crashes during launch or registration
Unresponsive POS system when connecting to the server
Repeated prompts to reconnect

Step-by-Step Guide to Fix QuickBooks POS Error 140305

Follow these comprehensive troubleshooting steps to resolve the error. If you need professional help at any point, call 1-877-200-7013.

Step 1: Verify Internet Connection

The first step is to ensure your internet connection is working correctly.

Open a web browser and navigate to a reliable website (e.g., google.com).
If the page does not load, troubleshoot your router or modem.
Try switching from wireless to a wired connection for stability.
Disable any VPN or proxy settings temporarily.

Once the connection is stable, retry the action in QuickBooks POS.

Step 2: Update QuickBooks Point of Sale

Running an outdated version can lead to compatibility and connectivity issues.

To update POS:

Open QuickBooks POS.
Click Help > Software Updates > Check for Updates.
If updates are found, click Install Now.
Restart the system after installation.

Step 3: Set Correct System Date and Time

If your computer’s system time is incorrect, QuickBooks may fail to validate the connection.

To correct it:

Right-click the date/time on the taskbar.
Select Adjust date/time.
Toggle on Set time automatically.
Choose the correct time zone.

Reopen POS and try to perform the previously failed task.

Step 4: Add POS to Firewall and Antivirus Exceptions

Firewalls or security software may block essential QuickBooks POS ports or files.

For Windows Firewall:

Open Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
Add QBPOS.exe from:

C:\Program Files (x86)\Intuit\QuickBooks Point of Sale XX.X
Ensure both Private and Public boxes are checked.

For Antivirus Software:

Open your antivirus settings.
Add the POS installation folder as an exception.
Temporarily disable the antivirus and try running POS.

Step 5: Run POS as Administrator

Running the software without proper permissions may restrict system access.

Right-click the QuickBooks POS desktop icon.
Select Run as administrator.
Retry the operation.

Step 6: Rename the WSActivity Folder

This folder manages active sessions. Corruption here can result in server communication errors.

Close QuickBooks POS.
Go to:

C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks Point of Sale XX.X\Ini
Right-click the WSActivity folder and rename it to WSActivity_old.
Reopen QuickBooks POS.

Step 7: Delete the Entitlement Client Folder

The Entitlement Client folder contains licensing and activation data. Resetting it can fix registration or sync issues.

Close QuickBooks POS completely.
Navigate to:

C:\ProgramData\Intuit\Entitlement Client\v8
Delete all files inside.
Restart POS and re-enter your license and product numbers.

Step 8: Repair QuickBooks POS Installation

A repair can fix corrupted installation files.

Steps:

Go to Control Panel > Programs > Programs and Features.
Select QuickBooks Point of Sale.
Click Uninstall/Change > Repair.
Follow the prompts.

After the repair completes, restart your system and test again.

Step 9: Perform a Clean Reinstallation of POS

If the problem persists, a complete reinstall may be necessary.

Uninstall POS:

Go to Control Panel > Uninstall a Program.
Select QuickBooks POS, click Uninstall.

Rename Installation Folders:

Rename the following folders by adding "_OLD":

C:\Program Files (x86)\Intuit\QuickBooks Point of Sale XX.X
C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks Point of Sale XX.X

Step 10: Contact QuickBooks POS Help

If none of the above steps resolve the error, the issue may be more complex. It could involve:

Internal database corruption
Incorrect network configurations
User permission errors
Operating system conflicts

In such cases, it's best to speak directly with a QuickBooks POS expert. Call 1-877-200-7013 for personalized troubleshooting and fast resolution.

Tips to Prevent QuickBooks Error 140305

Enable automatic updates in QuickBooks and Windows.
Regularly back up your company data to avoid corruption.
Use a stable wired internet connection whenever possible.
Whitelist POS-related ports and files in security software.
Scan your system for malware using trusted antivirus software.
Perform regular system maintenance, including disk cleanup and defragmentation.
Train users to shut down the POS system properly and avoid abrupt shutdowns.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I fix Error 140305 without uninstalling QuickBooks POS?

Yes, many times the issue is resolved by simpler steps like updating the software, fixing the internet connection, or adding firewall exceptions.

Q2: Does this error affect my QuickBooks Desktop data?

No, Error 140305 is specific to Point of Sale and usually doesn’t impact your QuickBooks Desktop data unless you're syncing the two.

Q3: How do I know if the firewall is causing the error?

Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software and try to perform the same operation. If it works, the firewall was likely the cause.

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks POS Error 140305 can disrupt business operations, but it's usually fixable with the right troubleshooting steps. From verifying your internet connection and updating software to adjusting firewall settings and reinstalling the POS system, each solution brings you closer to restoring full functionality.

Remember, time is money—especially in retail. If you're pressed for time or the issue is beyond your technical comfort zone, don’t hesitate to get expert help. Contact QuickBooks POS help at 1-877-200-7013 for professional guidance and fast fixes.

Stay proactive, keep your system updated, and protect your network to prevent issues like this from returning.