By the XpertBooks Pro support team · Last updated: October 2026
Experiencing the WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks? There is no need to worry — in this article we will walk through the correct steps to fix the WDDM service not running issue in QuickBooks Desktop. You may come across this issue when the .DLL (Dynamic Link Library) files are missing or damaged, or when something goes wrong while updating Windows. As a result, you may experience a slow system, startup and shutdown problems, blue screen errors, or programs locking up.
If you are facing the WDDM Service Not Running problem in QuickBooks, going through this article will surely help. You can also connect with our tech team at XpertBooks Pro.
What Leads to the WDDM Service Not Running Error in QuickBooks?
The triggers behind the WDDM service not running error in QuickBooks are as follows:
- Virus or malware infections present on your system.
- Display or system drivers that are not installed properly or are corrupted.
- Incorrect installation or uninstallation of an application.
- Missing or corrupted .DLL files after a Windows update.
Steps to Resolve the WDDM Service Not Running Error in QuickBooks
You can perform the measures below to resolve the WDDM service issue in QuickBooks Desktop:
Method 1: Set the WDDM Service to Automatic
This method ensures that the WDDM service starts automatically with Windows. Follow the steps below:
- Open the Start menu and click the Windows icon.
- Select Control Panel.
- Open Administrative Tools from the Control Panel.
- Click on Services.
- Find the WDDM service in the list.
- Right-click the WDDM service and select Properties.
- Go to the General tab.
- Set the Startup type to Automatic.
- Click Apply, then restart the service.
Method 2: Start the System in Safe Mode and Update Drivers
If the previous method does not work, restart the PC in Safe Mode and check your drivers. Follow the walkthrough below.
- Log in to the system as an administrator.
- Restart the system in Safe Mode.
- This reduces interference from third-party programs while you troubleshoot the issue.
- Check whether your PC drivers are updated:
- Open File Explorer, right-click This PC, and choose Manage.
- In the window that appears, go to System Tools and click Device Manager.
- Right-click a device (start with your display adapter) and open the Driver tab to check for driver updates.
- Update any outdated drivers, especially the video card drivers.
- Check whether Windows is updated to the latest version:
- Open the Start menu and click Settings.
- Go to System, then click About.
- Check your version under Windows specifications and install any pending updates.
Read Also: QuickBooks Error Code 1903 (An Installation Error) - Fixed
If program errors keep coming back, our QuickBooks support experts can diagnose them for you.
Summing up.!
As we come to the end of this article, we expect that the above steps will be of great assistance in troubleshooting the WDDM service not running issue in QuickBooks Desktop. If you still cannot fix the issue, connecting with our independent accounting professionals right away is a good option. Our experts will help resolve the issue from the root cause. For further assistance, contact our experts.
FAQs
What does the “WDDM Service Not Running” error mean in QuickBooks?
The "WDDM Service Not Running" error in QuickBooks reflects a malfunctioning of the Windows Display Driver Model (WDDM) service.
Can I continue using QuickBooks if I encounter the “WDDM Service Not Running” error?
Users should avoid using QuickBooks if they come across the "WDDM Service Not Running" error. It will present any harm to the accounting data stored in the program.
Is the “WDDM Service Not Running” error specific to QuickBooks, or can it occur with other applications as well?
This error is not confined to QuickBooks but can be encountered in other applications as well. All those applications that require Windows Display Driver Model service are prone to this error.
How do I check if the WDDM service is running on my computer?
The steps to check the status of the WDDM service are mentioned below:
1. Hit on the Windows and the R keys together.
2. Within the Run box, enter the command "services.msc".
3. Follow up by hitting the Enter key.
4. This will open the Services window.
5. Look for the "Windows Display Driver Model" or "WDDM" in the services list.
6. Finally, check the "Status" column and check if the service is running. If it is running, the status will show Running or Started.
Is the WDDM Service Not Running error specific to a particular version of QuickBooks?
The WDDM Service error can occur in different versions of QuickBooks that include the older and the newer versions.
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