Are you facing QuickBooks Error H202 when trying to open your company file on a network? You’re not alone. This error typically appears when QuickBooks Desktop can’t connect to the server in a multi-user environment. For immediate assistance, call QuickBooks Support at +1(866)409-5111.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know to fix this error and prevent it from coming back.
What is QuickBooks Error H202?
QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when your workstation fails to connect with the company file located on a different computer (the server). Essentially, QuickBooks is unable to establish a connection across the network, which breaks multi-user functionality.
This issue mostly affects businesses running QuickBooks in a multi-user setup, where more than one person needs access to the company file.
What Causes QuickBooks Error H202?
Several common causes may trigger this error:
Firewall or security software blocking communication
Incorrect DNS or network configuration
QuickBooks services not running on the server
The server is not set up to host the company file
Damaged .ND (Network Data) file
Signs You’re Dealing with Error H202
You might see this error message:
“This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”
Other symptoms include:
QuickBooks freezes or crashes during file access
You can’t switch to multi-user mode
You’re unable to ping the server from a workstation
Delayed response times when trying to open the company file
How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202
Step 1: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub and Network Diagnostic Tool
Download QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit's website.
Open the Tool Hub, go to the Network Issues tab.
Click on QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Run a scan of the folder where your company file is located.
Pro Tip: This tool auto-fixes network and firewall issues causing H202.
Step 2: Verify Hosting Settings
Make sure that only the server computer is set to host the file:
Open QuickBooks on each workstation.
Navigate to File Utilities.
If you see “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access,” it means hosting is turned on—turn it off on workstations.
Only the server should display “Stop Hosting…”
Step 3: Restart QuickBooks Services on the Server
QuickBooks relies on two key services: QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService.
Press
Windows + Rand typeservices.msc.Locate and restart both services.
Step 4: Configure Your Firewall Manually
Ensure the required ports are open:
QuickBooks 2024 uses:
8019,56728,55378-55382Go to your firewall settings and create inbound/outbound rules to allow these ports.
Also, add exceptions for:
QBDBMgrN.exeQBCFMonitorService.exe
Step 5: Ping the Server
Check network connectivity:
Open Command Prompt from your workstation.
Type:
If the response times out, you have network or DNS issues that need fixing.
Alternative Fix: Manually Create a New Shared Folder
On your server computer, create a new folder and share it with full permissions.
Copy your .QBW file (QuickBooks company file) to this folder.
Open the file from a workstation using multi-user mode.
Advanced Fix: Edit Windows Host File
Sometimes adding the server IP and name to the hosts file solves communication problems.
Locate the file at:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc\hostsOpen it with Notepad (Admin mode).
Add a line like:
Preventing QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future
Once fixed, follow these tips to avoid facing H202 again:
Always keep QuickBooks updated
Use reliable and stable internet/network connections
Don’t turn off hosting settings accidentally on the server
Regularly check that QuickBooks services are running
Train your team on how to properly access the company file
Still Stuck? Call QuickBooks Experts Now
If none of the above steps worked, don’t waste more time troubleshooting alone. Our certified QuickBooks specialists are here to help you 24/7.
Call Now: +1(866)409-5111 – Get live support from experienced U.S.-based professionals.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error H202 can be frustrating, but it’s fixable with the right steps and tools. Whether it’s a firewall issue or a misconfigured host setup, this guide has outlined the top ways to resolve the error and keep your business operations flowing smoothly.
Don’t forget—if you need expert help, reach out to QuickBooks support at +1(866)409-5111.
