Error 26: Failed to Open the Database File
If you are using an older version of Virtual TimeClock and receive an Error 26: File opened that is not a database file while trying to open a database, this article will explain what the message means and what you can do to resolve the problem.
Note: This error applies to Virtual TimeClock 14 and older.

What does error 26 mean?
An error 26 means that the file that you are attempting to open is not a database that can be read by your TimeClock; it is likely a database from a newer version of Virtual TimeClock and is not compatible with the older version you have installed. There are two ways you can get into this situation:
- Install a newer version of Virtual TimeClock, create a database and then roll back to the older version of the software and attempt to open the newer database.
- Install an older version of the TimeClock and attempt to open your database from a newer version.
How to resolve the issue.
There are several options for resolving an error 26.
- Reinstall the newer version of Virtual TimeClock to keep using the database you are attempting to open.
- If you wish to continue using the older version of Virtual TimeClock and you have a database backup from that version, you can restore the backup and continue using the time clock.
- If you do not have a backup of your database, you can start fresh by creating a new database.
If you have any questions about this issue, or need help with your database, contact our technical support team for additional assistance.