QuickBooks is an indispensable tool for businesses that manage their financial operations effectively. One of its most praised features is the multi-user mode, which allows multiple users to work on the same company file simultaneously. However, sometimes users encounter QuickBooks Error Code H202, which prevents the software from accessing the company file in a multi-user environment. This error can disrupt workflows and create bottlenecks if not resolved promptly.
In this article, we will discuss what QuickBooks Error Code H202 is, why it occurs, and how to resolve it effectively.
What is QuickBooks Error Code H202?
QuickBooks Error Code H202 is a multi-user mode error that occurs when a user tries to access a company file on another computer (the server) but fails to establish a connection. This error indicates that QuickBooks cannot communicate with the server hosting the company file.
When this error occurs, you might receive the following error message:
“Error H202: This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”
Causes of QuickBooks Error Code H202
Several factors can contribute to the occurrence of Error H202. Here are the most common reasons:
Incorrect Hosting Configuration: Hosting settings on the server or workstations may not be configured properly.
Blocked Communication: The firewall or security software may block communication between QuickBooks and the server.
Damaged.ND File: The Network Data (.ND) file associated with the company file may be corrupted or damaged.
Inactive QuickBooks Database Server Manager: The QuickBooks Database Server Manager, which facilitates multi-user mode, may not be running.
DNS Issues: Problems with the Domain Name System (DNS) can disrupt connectivity.
Network Issues: Weak or unstable network connections can prevent QuickBooks from accessing the server.
How to Identify Error H202
Before diving into solutions, confirming that the issue is indeed Error H202 is essential. Look for the following symptoms:
You cannot switch to multi-user mode.
Error H202 appears on your screen.
QuickBooks runs slower than usual in multi-user mode.
The company file is accessible in single-user mode but not in multi-user mode.
Network diagnostics indicate connectivity issues.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Resolve QuickBooks Error H202
Here are the most effective methods to fix QuickBooks Error Code H202:
Solution 1: Verify Hosting Settings
Ensure that only the server computer is set to host multi-user access, while all workstations have hosting turned off.
Open QuickBooks on each workstation.
Go to File > Utilities.
If you see the option Host Multi-User Access, do not select it. This indicates that hosting is already turned off.
If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, click it to disable hosting.
Repeat these steps on all workstations.
On the server, ensure hosting is enabled:
Open QuickBooks on the server.
Go to File > Utilities.
Select Host Multi-User Access if it is not already enabled.
Solution 2: Use the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool
QuickBooks File Doctor is an excellent tool provided by Intuit that diagnoses and fixes network and company file issues.
Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit’s official website.
Open the QuickBooks Tool Hub and select Company File Issues.
Click Run QuickBooks, File Doctor.
Browse to locate your company file and select it.
Choose Check your file and network and click Continue.
Enter your QuickBooks admin credentials if prompted.
Let the tool scan and repair any issues.
Solution 3: Configure Your Firewall Settings
The firewall may block QuickBooks’ incoming and outgoing communication. To resolve this:
Open your firewall settings.
Create new inbound and outbound rules for the following QuickBooks ports:
QuickBooks Desktop 2023: 8019, 5530, 5538, 5537
QuickBooks Desktop 2022: 8019, 5530, 5538, 5537
QuickBooks Desktop 2021: 8019, 5530, 5537, 5538
Allow these ports in the exception list.
Restart the server and workstations.
Solution 4: Repair the.ND File
The.ND file enables QuickBooks to access the company file over the network. If this file is damaged, you need to repair or recreate it.
Go to the folder containing your company file.
Locate the.ND file (e.g., YourCompanyFile.qbw.nd).
Right-click the.ND file and select Rename.
Add .old at the end of the file name (e.g., YourCompanyFile.qbw.nd.old).
Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager (from the QuickBooks Tool Hub).
Click Scan Folders and add the folder containing your company file.
Restart QuickBooks and try accessing the company file in multi-user mode.
Learn More:- QuickBooks Error 15103
Solution 5: Ensure QuickBooks Database Server Manager is Running
QuickBooks Database Server Manager must be active on the server to facilitate multi-user mode.
Open the Run window by pressing Windows + R.
Type services.msc and press Enter.
Look for QuickBooksDBXX (where XX corresponds to your QuickBooks version, e.g., QuickBooksDB33 for 2023).
Right-click the service and select Start if it is not running.
Set the service to start automatically:
Right-click the service > Properties.
Set Startup Type to Automatic.
Click Apply and OK.
Solution 6: Test and Reset Network Connectivity
Network connectivity issues can also trigger Error H202. Follow these steps:
Use the ping command to test connectivity between workstations and the server:
Open Command Prompt on a workstation.
Type ping [Server Name] and press Enter.
Check for consistent replies without packet loss.
If the ping test fails, check your network cables and router settings.
Restart your router or switch if necessary.
Preventing QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future
Once you resolve the issue, consider these tips to prevent Error H202 from recurring:
Regularly update QuickBooks to the latest version.
Keep your firewall and antivirus software updated and configure them to allow QuickBooks processes.
Use a reliable and stable network connection.
Periodically scan and repair the.ND and .TLG files associated with your company file.
Ensure that QuickBooks Database Server Manager is installed and running on the server.
You may also read:- Resolving the "QuickBooks Company File in Use" Error Effectively
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Error Code H202 can disrupt your ability to work efficiently in multi-user mode, but it’s manageable with the right approach. By following the solutions outlined in this article, you can diagnose and fix the issue, ensuring seamless collaboration across your team. If the error persists despite your efforts, consider reaching out to QuickBooks support or consulting a certified QuickBooks professional for assistance.
Comments