QuickBooks is widely trusted for its efficient accounting tools and smooth multi-user capabilities. However, when working in a multi-user environment, you may encounter QB Error H202, a common network-related issue that prevents users from accessing the company file stored on another system.
This error typically appears with a message stating:
“Error H202: You are trying to work with a company file that is located on another computer, and QuickBooks cannot reach the server.”
If you are stuck with this issue and want a quick, reliable fix, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. And if you need expert assistance, Dial Now +1-866-408-0444 for instant support.
What Is QB Error H202?
QB Error H202 occurs when QuickBooks Desktop fails to connect to the company file in multi-user mode. This error indicates that the workstation (the computer attempting to access the file) cannot communicate with the hosting server.
This issue is often caused by network configuration problems, blocked ports, misconfigured hosting settings, or a malfunctioning QuickBooks database service.
Why Does QuickBooks Error H202 Occur?
Several technical factors can trigger the QuickBooks Error H202 message. The most common causes include:
1. Incorrect Hosting Configuration
If hosting is turned on for multiple workstations, QuickBooks may fail to detect which system is the actual server.
2. Blocked QuickBooks Ports
QuickBooks uses specific ports to communicate with the server. If the firewall or security software blocks these ports, the connection breaks.
3. Damaged or Missing .ND File
The Network Data (.ND) file helps QuickBooks track the location of the company file. A corrupt .ND file can lead to connectivity failures.
4. QuickBooks Database Server Manager Not Running
If the QBDBMgrN service stops working, the server cannot host the company file in multi-user mode.
5. DNS or Network Issues
Incorrect DNS settings or unstable network connectivity also trigger the H202 QuickBooks problem.
How to Identify QB Error H202?
Here are the signs you’ll likely notice:
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QuickBooks switches from multi-user mode to single-user mode automatically.
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You cannot open the company file located on the server computer.
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System performance slows down.
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QuickBooks displays the H202 error message.
How to Fix QB Error H202? (Step-by-Step Solutions)
Below are effective ways to resolve the issue. You can perform these solutions in order or reach out for expert help by contacting Dial Now +1-866-408-0444.
Solution 1: Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager
This tool helps QuickBooks detect and access the company file on the server.
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Open QuickBooks Tool Hub (download it if you don't have it).
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Go to Network Issues.
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Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
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Browse and add the folder containing your company file.
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Click Start Scan.
Once completed, try accessing the file again.
Solution 2: Check Hosting Settings
Make sure that only the server computer is hosting the company file.
On All Workstations:
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Open QuickBooks → go to File → Utilities.
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If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, click on it.
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If it says Host Multi-User Access, don’t select it.
On the Server:
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Go to Utilities.
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Ensure Host Multi-User Access is enabled.
Solution 3: Configure Firewall and Network Ports
QuickBooks requires certain ports to function in multi-user mode. Ensure the following ports are open:
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QuickBooks Desktop 2024/2023: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382
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QuickBooks Desktop 2022: 8019, 56727, 55373–55377
Steps:
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Open Windows Firewall → Advanced Settings.
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Select Inbound Rules → New Rule.
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Choose Port, enter the port numbers, and allow the connection.
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Repeat for Outbound Rules.
Restart QuickBooks after completing this.
Solution 4: Repair the .ND File
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Go to the folder containing your company file.
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Locate the file with the extension .ND.
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Right-click → Rename, and add .old at the end.
QuickBooks will recreate a new .ND file automatically.
Solution 5: Ping the Server to Check Network Stability
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Press Windows + R, type CMD, and hit Enter.
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Type:
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If packets are lost or response time is slow, you may have network issues.
Use a wired connection or restart the router to improve network stability.
Solution 6: Restart QuickBooks Services
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Open Run (Windows + R).
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Type services.msc.
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Find:
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QuickBooksDBXX
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QBCFMonitorService
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Right-click each service → Restart.
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Set Startup Type to Automatic.
This often resolves the QuickBooks H202 issue instantly.
Preventing QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future
To avoid encountering this error again, follow these best practices:
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Use a stable network connection.
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Keep the server computer running during work hours.
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Install regular QuickBooks updates.
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Avoid using third-party software that interferes with firewall ports.
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Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub regularly to scan for network errors.
When to Call an Expert?
If the above steps don’t resolve your problem, there may be deeper issues such as server installation errors, damaged company files, or OS-level conflicts.
Get immediate expert help by calling:
Dial Now +1-866-408-0444
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is QuickBooks Error H202?
QuickBooks Error H202 is a multi-user mode error that occurs when QuickBooks cannot connect to the server hosting the company file. It is usually caused by blocked ports, misconfigured hosting settings, or server issues.
2. How do I fix QB Error H202 quickly?
The quickest fix is to run the QuickBooks Database Server Manager from the QuickBooks Tool Hub. It repairs network paths and restores connection. If this doesn’t work, restart services like QBDBMgrN and QBCFMonitorService.
3. Why does QuickBooks lose connection to the server?
This can happen due to network instability, firewall blocking QuickBooks ports, incorrect DNS configuration, or the database server not running properly.
4. Can I prevent QuickBooks Error H202 from happening again?
Yes. Keep your server PC active, ensure proper network configuration, and run QuickBooks Tool Hub regularly. Using reliable antivirus and proper firewall settings also helps.
5. Who should I contact if I can’t fix QuickBooks Error H202 myself?
You can get expert help from certified QuickBooks specialists anytime.
?? Dial Now +1-866-408-0444 for quick and reliable support.