Troubleshoot QuickBooks Error H202: A Step-by-Step Guide

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Fix QuickBooks Error H202: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction:

QuickBooks Error H202 is a common issue that occurs when users try to switch to multi-user mode. This error signifies that the multi-user setup is blocked due to the system being unable to connect to the server. This problem can hinder your business operations, making it crucial to resolve it swiftly. In this guide, we'll walk you through the causes of Error H202 and the steps to fix it.

Fix-QuickBooks-Error-H202

What is QuickBooks Error H202?

QuickBooks Error H202 is an error that appears when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to establish a connection to the server in a multi-user setup. This prevents users from accessing the company file located on another computer. The error message typically reads:

Error H202: This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting."

Causes of QuickBooks Error H202

Several factors can trigger Error H202, including:

Incorrect Hosting Configuration: Incorrect settings in QuickBooks can prevent proper communication between the server and workstations.
Blocked Ports: QuickBooks needs specific ports to be open for communication. Blocked ports can hinder this process.

Damaged .ND File: Network Data (.ND) files help QuickBooks access company files in a network or multi-user environment. A damaged .ND file can cause connectivity issues.

Firewall or Security Software: Firewalls and security software may block communication between QuickBooks and the server.

DNS Issues: Problems with the DNS server can prevent QuickBooks from locating the server computer.

How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202?

Step 1: Verify Hosting Settings

  1. Open QuickBooks on each workstation.
  2. Go to File > Utilities.
  3. Ensure Host Multi-User Access is selected on the server computer only. On workstations, it should read Stop Hosting Multi-User Access.

Step 2: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

  1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Open the Tool Hub and select Company File Issues.
  3. Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
  4. Select your company file from the drop-down menu.
  5. Choose Check your file and then Continue.
  6. Enter your QuickBooks Admin password and click Next.

Step 3: Configure Firewall Settings

  1. Open the Windows Firewall settings.
  2. Click on Advanced Settings.
  3. Right-click Inbound Rules and select New Rule.
  4. Choose Port and click Next.
  5. Select TCP and enter the specific ports required for QuickBooks (typically 8019, 56728, 55378-55382).
  6. Click Next and select Allow the Connection.
  7. Name the rule and click Finish.
  8. Repeat the steps for Outbound Rules.

Step 4: Check DNS Settings

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
  2. Type CMD and press Enter.
  3. In the command prompt, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
  4. Restart your computer.

Step 5: Edit the Windows Hosts File

  1. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc.
  2. Right-click the Hosts file and open it with Notepad.
  3. Add the IP address and server name at the end of the file.
  4. Save the changes and close the file.

Step 6: Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager

  1. Open the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Select Network Issues.
  3. Click on QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
  4. Scan the folder where your company file is located.
  5. Restart your computer.

Conclusion!!

QuickBooks Error H202 can be a major inconvenience, but with these steps, you can resolve the issue and get back to work quickly. Ensure that your network settings are correctly configured and that all necessary ports are open. By following this guide, you should be able to fix the error and restore multi-user access to your QuickBooks company file.

If you continue to experience issues, consider reaching out to QuickBooks support or consulting with a certified QuickBooks professional for further assistance.

Source: Fix QuickBooks Error H202: A Step-by-Step Guide - HackMD