Optimizing your firm’s environment for high performance CCH Axcess™ workflows

Determine whether the issue is local or system‑wide

Before troubleshooting workstation settings, it is important to determine whether performance issues are isolated to one user or occurring across the firm. If multiple users experience slowness at the same time, it may indicate a network or service factor rather than a workstation issue.

Firms should also check the CCH Axcess Application Status page to confirm whether Wolters Kluwer has reported a service degradation. If a service outage or slowdown is in progress, performance will improve automatically once the issue is resolved.

Confirm workstations readiness and system specifications

Local workstation performance has a direct impact on cloud application responsiveness. CCH Axcess system requirements recommend 16GB of dedicated/static RAM, and insufficient memory is a common contributor to perceived slowness. 

Additional environmental elements that influence performance include:

Internet speed and stability. Because all data processing flows through the cloud, slow or inconsistent internet connections can significantly affect load times. Running a speed test helps identify bandwidth or latency issues.

Firewall configuration. Missing or incomplete firewall exceptions can block or delay CCH Axcess-related traffic, leading to timeouts or sluggish performance. Ensuring that the required exceptions are correctly implemented is essential.  

Antivirus exclusions. Some antivirus tools scan CCH Axcess directories or processes in real time, which can slow down return loading or navigation. Applying the recommended exclusions prevents these unnecessary delays. 

Reduce local resource conflicts

Even when system requirements are met, unnecessary background processes can consume resources and affect application responsiveness. As part of standard troubleshooting, firms are advised to disable non‑Microsoft startup items and services temporarily to identify potential conflicts.  

If performance issues continue, uninstalling and reinstalling the CCH Axcess applications may resolve corrupted or incomplete files that could otherwise impact speed.

Achieve fast, reliable performance within a modern cloud environment

CCH Axcess™ is engineered to deliver fast, reliable performance within a modern cloud environment. Most performance considerations stem from workstation readiness, network stability, security settings, or environmental configuration, not from the application itself. By aligning local environments with recommended best practices, firms can ensure consistent, efficient performance throughout the tax season.