QuickBooks Error H202 is one of the most common errors encountered while using QuickBooks in a multi-user setup. It typically indicates that QuickBooks is unable to access the company file on another computer in the network. If you're experiencing this error, it's essential to understand the underlying causes and follow accurate troubleshooting steps.
For immediate expert help, contact QuickBooks Support Team at +1(855)-738-0359.
What is QuickBooks Error H202?
QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when a user tries to open a company file located on another computer, but QuickBooks cannot reach the server (hosting the file). This problem disrupts multi-user mode, preventing users from accessing and working on the same file simultaneously.
You may see this error message:
"This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting."
The error falls under the H-series of QuickBooks errors (H101, H202, H303, H505), which are all related to hosting and network connectivity issues.
What Causes QuickBooks Error H202?
Several factors can trigger Error H202 in QuickBooks. Below are the common causes:
1. Incorrect Hosting Configuration
When the multi-user setup is not configured properly, QuickBooks cannot communicate with the server that hosts the company file.
2. Blocked Ports or Firewall Settings
Your system firewall or antivirus software may be blocking communication between QuickBooks and the server.
3. Damaged or Corrupt .ND File
The Network Data (.ND) file helps QuickBooks access company files in a network. If this file is corrupted, the connection may fail.
4. QuickBooks Services Not Running
Services like QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService must be running on the server computer. If not, QuickBooks may not access the file.
5. DNS Server Not Resolving Hostname
If the DNS settings on the workstation are incorrect, QuickBooks may not be able to locate the server.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202: Step-by-Step Solutions
Follow these in-depth solutions to resolve the H202 error and restore multi-user access.
Solution 1: Use the QuickBooks Database Server Manager
- Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
- Open the Tool Hub and go to Network Issues.
- Click QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
- Scan the folder where your company file is located.
- Once the scan is complete, restart QuickBooks on the workstation.
- If the issue persists, move on to the next solution.
Solution 2: Check Hosting Settings on All Workstations
- Open QuickBooks on each workstation.
- Navigate to File > Utilities.
- If you see Host Multi-User Access, do not select it.
- If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, click it to disable hosting.
Only the server computer should host the company file.
Solution 3: Restart QuickBooks Services
- On the server computer, press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.
- Locate QuickBooksDBXX (XX depends on your version) and QBCFMonitorService.
- Right-click on each and choose Restart.
- Set both services to Automatic.
Restart all systems and check QuickBooks again.
Solution 4: Configure the Firewall and Antivirus
Ensure that your firewall is not blocking QuickBooks:
- Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
- Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
- Allow QuickBooks ports and QuickBooks executable files like
QBDBMgrN.exe,QBCFMonitorService.exe, etc.
For detailed firewall port numbers:
- QuickBooks 2024: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382
- QuickBooks 2023: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377
- Restart QuickBooks after configuring settings.
Solution 5: Rename the .ND File
- Navigate to the folder containing your company file.
- Look for the file with the same name as your company file but ending in
.ND. - Right-click and choose Rename.
- Add .old to the end of the file name (e.g.,
CompanyName.qbw.nd.old).
Open QuickBooks again and try accessing the file.
Solution 6: Add Server IP to Host File
- Go to the workstation experiencing the issue.
- Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hosts.
- Open the hosts file in Notepad as an administrator.
- Add the server’s IP address followed by its computer name.
- Save the file and restart QuickBooks.
When to Contact QuickBooks Support?
If you've tried all the above solutions and the error still persists, it may be due to deeper network or file damage issues. In such cases, contact the QuickBooks Error Support Team at +1(855)-738-0359 for expert guidance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Error H202 in QuickBooks?
Error H202 occurs when QuickBooks Desktop cannot connect to the company file stored on another system. It usually happens in multi-user mode setups due to network or configuration issues.
Can I still work on QuickBooks in single-user mode?
Yes, you can work in single-user mode on the server where the file is located. However, other users won’t be able to access the company file until the error is fixed.
How can I check if my firewall is blocking QuickBooks?
You can open your firewall settings and verify whether the correct ports are open and if QuickBooks executable files are allowed through. Use the QuickBooks File Doctor for automatic diagnosis.
What is the QuickBooks Database Server Manager?
It’s a utility that scans your system for company files and configures the firewall and hosting settings automatically to support multi-user access.
Does QuickBooks Tool Hub fix Error H202?
Yes, it contains various tools including the QuickBooks Database Server Manager and File Doctor that can help diagnose and fix network-related errors including H202.
What if I keep getting H202 even after trying all solutions?
If none of the above methods work, the issue could be with your network setup, Windows user permissions, or damaged installation. You can reach out to the QuickBooks Technical Support Team at +1(855)-738-0359 for personalized assistance.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Error H202 is frustrating, especially in a busy multi-user accounting environment. However, with the right troubleshooting techniques and tools like the QuickBooks Tool Hub, the error is usually fixable. Always ensure that your hosting settings, firewall configurations, and QuickBooks services are properly set up.
If you’re stuck or need step-by-step expert help, don’t hesitate to call the QuickBooks Support Team at +1(855)-738-0359 for immediate assistance.
