top of page
Jul 103 min read

Fix QuickBooks Error H202

Introduction:

QuickBooks is a robust accounting software used by businesses to manage their financial operations efficiently. However, users sometimes encounter errors that disrupt their workflow. One common issue is QuickBooks Error H202, which occurs when trying to switch to multi-user mode. This error indicates that the multi-user setup is blocked due to a problem with the company file hosted on another computer. In this article, we'll explore the causes of Error H202 and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.


Understanding QuickBooks Error H202

QuickBooks Error H202 arises when the workstation fails to communicate with the company file hosted on another computer. This error typically surfaces with the following message: "Error H202: This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting." Several factors can contribute to this issue:

  • Incorrect hosting configuration settings

  • Blocked ports needed for QuickBooks to communicate

  • Damaged QuickBooks Database Server Manager

  • Inability to obtain the IP address of the host system

  • Problems with DNS settings


Symptoms of QuickBooks Error H202

Identifying Error H202 can help you quickly address the problem. Look for these common symptoms:

  • QuickBooks freezes or runs slowly in multi-user mode.

  • You receive an error message when trying to open a company file in multi-user mode.

  • The QuickBooks application crashes intermittently.

  • The workstation cannot access the company file hosted on another computer.


Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error H202

Here are several methods to resolve QuickBooks Error H202:


Solution 1: Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager

  1. Download and Install: If you haven't already, download and install QuickBooks Database Server Manager on your server.

  2. Open the Tool: Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager from the Start menu.

  3. Scan the Folder: Use the 'Scan' option to scan the folder where your company file is stored. This will ensure that QuickBooks can communicate with the file.

  4. Start Hosting: Ensure that hosting is enabled on your server by selecting 'Host Multi-User Access.'


Solution 2: Check Network Connectivity

  1. Ping the Server: Test the network connectivity by pinging the server from the workstation.

  • Press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

  • In the command prompt, type ping [Server Name] and press Enter.

  • If you receive a reply, your network connection is fine. If not, you need to resolve the network issues.

  1. Restart the Network: Restart your router, server, and workstations to refresh the network connection.


Solution 3: Configure Firewall Settings

  1. Open Firewall Settings: Go to the Control Panel and select Windows Firewall.

  2. Allow QuickBooks Ports: Ensure that the firewall allows access to QuickBooks ports (typically 8019, 56728, 55378-55382).

  • Select 'Advanced Settings' and choose 'Inbound Rules.'

  • Create a new rule to allow the ports used by QuickBooks.

  1. Restart QuickBooks: Restart QuickBooks to see if the issue is resolved.


Solution 4: Verify Hosting Settings

  1. Open QuickBooks: On the server, open QuickBooks and go to 'File' > 'Utilities.'

  2. Check Hosting: Ensure that 'Host Multi-User Access' is enabled. If you see 'Stop Hosting Multi-User Access,' select it and then re-enable hosting.


Solution 5: Edit the Windows Hosts File

  1. Access Hosts File: Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\.

  2. Open and Edit: Open the 'hosts' file with Notepad and add the IP address and computer name of the server.

  3. Save Changes: Save the file and restart QuickBooks.


Conclusion!!

QuickBooks Error H202 can be a hindrance, but with the right approach, it can be resolved efficiently. By following the solutions outlined above, you can restore seamless multi-user functionality and get back to managing your business finances without interruption. If the problem persists, consider reaching out to a QuickBooks professional for further assistance.


FAQs:

Q1: Can I prevent Error H202 from occurring in the future?

Ans: Yes, regular network maintenance, ensuring proper configuration of QuickBooks Database Server Manager, and keeping your firewall settings updated can help prevent Error H202.


Q2: Is it necessary to have QuickBooks Database Server Manager installed on the server?

Ans: Yes, QuickBooks Database Server Manager is crucial for managing multi-user access and ensuring smooth communication between workstations and the server.


Q3: What if none of the solutions work?

Ans: If the error persists after trying all the solutions, consider contacting QuickBooks support or a certified QuickBooks professional for further assistance.

Comments

bottom of page