QuickBooks is a trusted tool for managing finances, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. However, like any software, it isn’t without its hiccups. One common issue users encounter is QuickBooks Error H202. This error can disrupt your workflow, but don’t worry! This guide will help you understand what it is, why it happens, and how to fix it.
What is QuickBooks Error H202?
QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when you try to switch to multi-user mode, but QuickBooks can’t reach the server computer that hosts your company file. This error prevents you from accessing your files in multi-user mode, essentially locking you out of crucial functionalities.
Error Message
You might see the following error message on your screen: “Error H202: This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”
General Causes of QuickBooks Error H202
Understanding the root causes of Error H202 can help in troubleshooting it effectively. Here are some common reasons why this error occurs:
- Network Issues: The most common cause is network connectivity issues. QuickBooks cannot communicate with the server or another workstation hosting the company file.
- DNS Server Issues: Incorrect DNS settings can block QuickBooks from accessing the server.
- Hosting Configuration: Incorrect hosting configuration settings on your server or workstations.
- Blocked Ports: Ports necessary for QuickBooks to communicate are blocked.
- Damaged .ND File: The .ND file associated with your company file is damaged or incorrect.
- QuickBooks Services Not Running: QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitor services are not running on the server.
Troubleshooting Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error H202
Here’s a step-by-step guide to resolving QuickBooks Error H202. Follow these methods carefully to get your QuickBooks back in multi-user mode.
1. Verify Network Connectivity
Before diving into specific fixes, ensure your network is working correctly.
- Ping the Server: On your workstation, open the Command Prompt and type ping [server name]. If you get replies, your network is working.
- Check Internet Connection: Ensure all systems are connected to the internet and network.
2. Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager
QuickBooks Database Server Manager helps configure QuickBooks correctly in multi-user mode.
- Download and Install QuickBooks Tool Hub:
- Download the latest version of the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official site.
- Install and open it.
- Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager:
- Open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
- Go to the Network Issues tab.
- Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
- Scan your company file location.
3. Configure Firewall Settings
Ensure that your firewall or antivirus software is not blocking QuickBooks.
- Create Firewall Exceptions:
- Open Control Panel and go to System and Security.
- Select Windows Defender Firewall and then Advanced Settings.
- Create inbound and outbound rules for the ports used by QuickBooks (ports 8019, 56728, 55378-55382).
- Add QuickBooks Ports:
- Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager and go to the Port Monitor tab.
- Note the port number and ensure it is open on your firewall.
4. Check and Update DNS Settings
Incorrect DNS settings can cause connectivity issues.
- Update DNS:
- Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig /flushdns.
- Go to Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Change adapter settings.
- Right-click your network connection, select Properties, then Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4).
- Click Properties, use the following DNS server addresses: 8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4 (Google’s public DNS).
5. Verify Hosting and Services
Ensure that hosting is only enabled on the server and that necessary QuickBooks services are running.
- Verify Hosting:
- Open QuickBooks on each workstation.
- Go to File > Utilities.
- Ensure “Host Multi-User Access” is displayed on workstations (meaning hosting is not enabled).
- Check QuickBooks Services:
- Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
- Locate QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService.
- Ensure both services are running and set to Automatic.
6. Rename .ND and .TLG Files
The .ND and .TLG files help QuickBooks find your company file over the network. Renaming these files can fix connectivity issues.
- Rename Files:
- Open the folder containing your company file.
- Locate files with the same name as your company file but with .ND and .TLG extensions.
- Right-click and rename them by adding .old at the end (e.g., CompanyFile.qbw.ND to CompanyFile.qbw.ND.old).
7. Create a New Folder for the Company File
Sometimes, creating a new folder and moving your company file there can resolve the issue.
- Create New Folder:
- On the server, create a new folder.
- Move your company file to this new folder.
- Share the folder and set Windows access permissions to share the company files.
8. Edit Windows Hosts File
Editing the hosts file can help in resolving network issues.
- Edit Hosts File:
- Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc.
- Open the hosts file using Notepad.
- Add the IP address and server name at the bottom of the file.
- Save and close the file.
9. Test Connectivity Using QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool
This tool helps identify and fix network and connectivity issues.
- Download and Run Tool:
- Download QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool from the Intuit website.
- Run the tool and follow the prompts to fix issues.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error H202 can be a frustrating roadblock, but with the right approach, it is manageable. Following the steps outlined above should help you resolve this issue and get back to your accounting tasks without further interruptions. Regularly maintaining your network settings and keeping QuickBooks updated can also prevent such issues in the future.
