Fixing QuickBooks Error H202 When Switching to Multi-User Mode
QuickBooks is one of the most widely used accounting software platforms for small and medium-sized businesses. While it simplifies bookkeeping, payroll, and tax management, users often encounter technical errors that interrupt workflow. One of the most common issues is QuickBooks Error H202, which typically occurs in a multi-user environment when a company file is hosted on another computer (the server) but QuickBooks is unable to access it.
What is QuickBooks Error H202?
QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when a workstation (a user’s computer) cannot connect to the company file (QBW) stored on the server computer. This error blocks users from accessing the multi-user mode, which is crucial for teams working together on company accounts.
The error usually displays this message:
“Error Code H202: This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs help connecting.”
In simple terms, the workstation can’t communicate with the hosting server because of network issues, incorrect hosting configuration, or firewall restrictions.
Symptoms of QuickBooks Error H202
You may be facing error H202 if you notice:
QuickBooks company file won’t open in multi-user mode
The system displays the QuickBooks Error H202 message
The workstation runs slowly or freezes frequently
Lost connection while working on a shared company file
QuickBooks Database Server Manager not running
Causes of QuickBooks Error H202
Several factors may trigger QuickBooks Error H202, including:
Incorrect Hosting Configuration – QuickBooks on the workstation is set to host files instead of the server.
Firewall Blocking Communication – The firewall prevents QuickBooks from exchanging data with the server.
Damaged or Incorrect DNS Settings – Incorrect DNS mapping causes connection failure.
QuickBooks Services Not Running – Essential services like QuickBooksDBXX or QBCFMonitor are stopped.
Network Data (.ND) File Corruption – If the .ND file is damaged, QuickBooks cannot locate the server.
Blocked Ports – QuickBooks requires specific ports to connect; if they’re blocked, H202 occurs.
Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error H202
Here are the most effective ways to resolve QuickBooks Error H202. Follow each step carefully:
Solution 1: Verify Hosting Settings on All Workstations
Open QuickBooks on each workstation (not the server).
Go to File > Utilities.
If you see “Host Multi-User Access”, do NOT select it.
This means hosting should only be enabled on the server, not the workstations.
If you see “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access”, select it.
This disables hosting on the workstation.
👉 Hosting should only be enabled on the server computer.
Solution 2: Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager
QuickBooks Database Server Manager ensures that the workstation can access the company file.
On the server computer, open the Database Server Manager.
If it’s not installed, install it via QuickBooks Tools Hub.
Select Start Scan and locate the folder containing your company file.
After scanning, reopen QuickBooks on the workstation.
This rebuilds the .ND file and ensures proper network configuration.
Solution 3: Add QuickBooks Services to Windows Firewall
The firewall may block QuickBooks from connecting to the server.
Press Windows + R, type Control Panel, and press Enter.
Go to System and Security > Windows Firewall.
Select Advanced Settings > Inbound Rules > New Rule.
Add the following QuickBooks ports:
QuickBooks 2025: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382
QuickBooks 2024/2023 versions may use different ports (check Intuit’s official port list).
Repeat the steps for Outbound Rules.
Restart QuickBooks and try opening the company file.
Solution 4: Ping the Server from the Workstation
On the workstation, press Windows + R, type
CMD, and hit Enter.Type:
Example:
ping SERVER01If you get slow or lost replies, it means there is a network issue.
Check cables, router settings, and network configuration.
Solution 5: Rename the .ND and .TLG Files
Damaged configuration files may prevent QuickBooks from connecting.
Navigate to the folder containing your company file (.QBW).
Find the .ND and .TLG files (e.g.,
companyfile.qbw.nd).Right-click each file and select Rename. Add .OLD at the end.
Example:
companyfile.qbw.nd.OLD.
Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager and rescan the company file folder.
Solution 6: Restart QuickBooks Services on the Server
On the server, press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and hit Enter.Locate the following services:
QuickBooksDBXX (where XX is your version number)
QBCFMonitorService
Right-click each service > Restart.
Set their startup type to Automatic.
Solution 7: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub (Network Issues Fix)
Intuit provides a free utility called QuickBooks Tool Hub to fix common errors.
Download and install the latest QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Open it and go to Network Issues tab.
Run the QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Follow the on-screen prompts to repair connectivity.
Solution 8: Edit the Windows Hosts File
If DNS is misconfigured, QuickBooks may not locate the server.
On the workstation, go to:
Open the Hosts file in Notepad (Run as Administrator).
Add the IP address and server name at the bottom. Example:
Save the file and restart QuickBooks.
Solution 9: Switch QuickBooks to Multi-User Mode
On the workstation, open QuickBooks.
Go to File > Switch to Multi-User Mode.
If successful, the connection issue is resolved.
Solution 10: Contact QuickBooks Support or IT Specialist
If none of the above methods resolve the error, the issue may be advanced (e.g., damaged company file, complex network restrictions). In that case, contact QuickBooks ProAdvisor support or your IT administrator.
How to Prevent QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future
Keep QuickBooks and Windows updated.
Regularly configure your firewall and antivirus settings.
Ensure only the server hosts multi-user access.
Backup your company file regularly.
Use a stable, high-speed internet/network connection.
Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager after updates.
FAQs About QuickBooks Error H202
1. What does QuickBooks Error H202 mean?
It means your workstation cannot communicate with the server hosting the company file in multi-user mode.
2. Can I fix H202 error without IT help?
Yes, you can fix it by configuring hosting, firewall, and network settings. However, if the issue persists, professional IT support may be needed.
3. Does renaming the .ND file delete my data?
No, renaming the .ND file only resets the configuration. Your company file remains safe.
4. Which QuickBooks versions face H202 error?
All desktop versions (Pro, Premier, Enterprise) can face this error in a multi-user environment.
5. Is QuickBooks Tool Hub safe?
Yes, QuickBooks Tool Hub is an official Intuit tool designed to fix common errors including H202, H505, and 6000 series errors.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Error H202 can be frustrating, especially when your team relies on multi-user mode for day-to-day operations. The good news is that it can be fixed with proper troubleshooting—whether by adjusting hosting settings, firewall rules, or repairing network configurations.
If you’ve tried all the solutions but still face the error, it’s best to reach out to QuickBooks customer support or an IT professional for advanced help.
By following the steps in this guide, you’ll not only resolve QuickBooks Error H202 but also prevent it from reoccurring in the future.
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