One of the most frequent problems consumers have while converting to Multi-User Mode is QuickBooks Error H202. When QuickBooks Desktop is unable to connect to a company file that is kept on a different computer or server, this error typically shows up. Users are consequently prevented from opening the file, which disrupts workflow, hinders teamwork, and lowers productivity. This comprehensive, human-written, SEO-friendly guide offers comprehensive, step-by-step network repair advice to assist you in resolving Error H202 in a timely and efficient manner.
What Is QuickBooks Error H202?
When the program attempts to access a corporate file on a different machine but is unable to establish a connection, QuickBooks Error H202 arises. Usually, the message says:
“Error H202: This computer’s company file cannot be accessed by QuickBooks.”
This shows that QuickBooks cannot connect to the server that is hosting the company file, frequently as a result of network, hosting, or firewall-related problems.
Why QuickBooks Error H202 Happens
To fix the error properly, it’s important to understand why it occurs. Below are the most common causes:
1. Incorrect Hosting Configuration
QuickBooks may not be set up properly for Multi-User Mode, especially if hosting is enabled on multiple workstations instead of the server.
2. Blocked Communication Ports
QuickBooks requires specific ports for communication. If these ports are blocked by a firewall, the software cannot connect to the server.
3. QuickBooks Database Server Manager Not Running
If the QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDSM) is not installed or running on the server, workstations cannot access the shared company file.
4. Damaged or Incorrect Network Setup
Issues with DNS settings, incorrect IP addresses, or network instability may trigger the H202 error.
5. Missing or Inaccessible Permissions
If folder permissions are not set correctly on the server, other systems cannot access the shared file.
Signs and Symptoms of QuickBooks Error H202
Error H202 might be affecting you if you observe:
- Having trouble putting QuickBooks into Multi-User Mode.
- A workstation cannot open a company file.
- When accessing files, QuickBooks freezes or becomes sluggish.
- The QuickBooks Database Server Manager becomes unresponsive.
- Error notice H202 keeps showing up.
These indicators point to configuration or network problems that need to be troubleshooted.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202 – Step-by-Step Network Repair Tips
Below are the most effective and reliable solutions to fix QuickBooks Error H202. Follow each step carefully.
Step 1: Verify Hosting Settings on All Workstations
Hosting should be enabled only on the server and disabled on all workstations.
On a workstation:
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Open QuickBooks.
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Go to File > Utilities.
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If you see Host Multi-User Access, do not click it.
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If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, select it.
Repeat the steps on all workstations to ensure hosting is off everywhere except the server.
You can also read :- File Form 941 in QuickBooks
Step 2: Check and Configure Firewall Settings
A firewall may block QuickBooks from accessing network resources.
Allow QuickBooks ports manually:
QuickBooks Desktop requires the following ports:
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QuickBooks 2023: 8019, 56728–56730, 55378–55382
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QuickBooks 2022: 8019, 56727–56729, 55375–55379
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QuickBooks 2021: 8019, 56726–56728, 55373–55377
To configure manually:
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Open Windows Firewall.
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Select Advanced Settings.
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Choose Inbound Rules > New Rule.
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Select Port and click Next.
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Add the required ports and save the rule.
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Repeat steps for Outbound Rules.
Restart QuickBooks and check whether the error is resolved.
Step 3: Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager
The QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDSM) creates and updates network files needed for Multi-User access.
Steps to run it:
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Go to the server and open QuickBooks.
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Search for QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
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Open the tool and go to Scan Folders.
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Click Add Folder and select the folder containing your company file.
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Click Scan.
If the tool identifies the company file, try opening it from a workstation.
Step 4: Verify QuickBooks Services on the Server
Two essential services must be running:
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QuickBooksDBXX
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QBCFMonitorService
To check services:
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Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
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Look for the services above.
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Make sure Startup Type is set to Automatic.
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If stopped, click Start.
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Restart QuickBooks and test Multi-User Mode.
Step 5: Configure Network Discovery Settings
QuickBooks requires that all devices on the network can detect and communicate with each other.
To enable network discovery:
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Open Control Panel.
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Go to Network and Sharing Center.
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Click Change advanced sharing settings.
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Enable:
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Network Discovery
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File and Printer Sharing
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Public Folder Sharing
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Step 6: Check Folder Permissions on the Server
The folder containing the .QBW file must be accessible to all workstations.
Set correct permissions:
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Right-click the folder where the company file is saved.
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Go to Properties > Security.
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Ensure users have:
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Full Control
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Modify
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Read/Write
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List Folder Contents
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Restart QuickBooks and check again.
Step 7: Create a New ND and TLG File
Sometimes the network descriptor (ND) or the transaction log (TLG) becomes damaged.
To fix this:
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Open the company file folder.
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Locate files with extensions .ND and .TLG.
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Right-click and rename them by adding .old.
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Reopen QuickBooks and let it recreate the files.
Step 8: Ping the Server from a Workstation
Testing network connectivity can reveal hidden issues.
Steps:
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On a workstation, press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.
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Type:
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Press Enter.
If the ping fails, the network is misconfigured and needs repair.
Step 9: Switch to a Static IP Address
Dynamic IP changes can cause QuickBooks connection failures. Assigning a static IP prevents disruptions.
Step 10: Move the Company File to Another Location (Temporary Test)
If the file opens from another shared location, the original folder has permission or path issues.
Prevention Tips to Avoid Error H202 in the Future
- Update QuickBooks Desktop.
- Ensure consistent network connectivity
- Don’t use workstations to host the company file.
- Update Windows Firewall settings on a regular basis.
- Periodically restart QuickBooks services.
For all business file sharing tasks, use QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Conclusion
When QuickBooks Error Code H202 prevents users from accessing their company file in Multi-User Mode, it can be particularly annoying. Fortunately, the problem may be swiftly fixed with the appropriate strategy. You may easily restore QuickBooks functionality by following these detailed network repair instructions, which include testing network connectivity, running the Database Server Manager, installing firewalls, confirming hosting settings, and checking permissions. If you continue to experience this error, please reach out to our QuickBooks professionals for expert assistance at +1 (866) 500-0076.
