by the way, sage accounts control service and data service are both running on the server, but can't access the server because client computer says the data service is unavailable. client runs latest version V23 too.

I had an excellent email from Sage support which allowed me to install the software by bypassing the windows version check, unfortunately now the service "sage accounts data service v23" won't now start and gives error 1046

Hi John,

To resolve this: 

1. Make sure you're logged on to the computer as an administrator, for further help with this refer to Ask Sage article 15082.
2. Restart your computer.
   • Clear your temporary folder. To do the press the Windows key + R > type %temp% > OK > Ctrl + A > press Delete > Yes.

This deletes all the files in your temporary folder. This may affect other software, if you're not sure, check with your IT support.

1. Temporarily disable your antivirus software. For help disabling your antivirus software, please contact your IT support.
2. Ctrl + Alt + Delete > Task Manager > Processes tab.
3. End the process that appears in the error message. For example, Sage.Central.AutoUpdateManager.Service.exe
4. Try the installation again.

If the issue still occurs after following these steps, you should following further steps detailed here.

yes even got on line chat. wast of time had awaiting for two hours for updates and error time out had to resort computer back to v22

Hi Linda,

Could you please let me know the specific messages you are getting in relation to this so I can provide the best solution?

I had to move Sage to a Windows 10 PC because of problems on Windows Server 2012. It doesn't look like things are any better with Server 2016. We didn't use to have this problem before the introduction of the Sage data service - the data sat happily on any network shared drive, regardless of OS

Hi Fred,

In Sage Accounts v21 and above, the Sage Accounts Data Service runs on the computer or server where your Sage Accounts data is held. The service controls the reading and writing of data. Using this service increases the robustness of the system, improves data security and helps to optimise performance.

Because of this, it needs to be on a supported operating system.

Are you experiencing any issues currently?  Server 2016 is a supported Operating System, just not Server Essentials so I would expect the program and Data Service to run correctly on Server 2016 if this is what you wish to use.