QuickBooks Error Code H202: What It Is and How to Fix It

QuickBooks Error H202 is a common issue that occurs when a user attempts to access a company file located on another computer (server), but QuickBooks is unable to communicate with that server. This error typically pops up when you're trying to switch to multi-user mode, preventing collaboration across the network.

When this error happens, you may see a message that says:

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

Why Does QuickBooks Error H202 Occur?

This error usually occurs because of a communication issue between your QuickBooks workstation and the server hosting the company file. Below are the most common reasons:

Top Causes of QuickBooks Error H202:

• Incorrect Hosting Configuration Settings

• Blocked Communication by Windows Firewall

• Damaged or Incorrect DNS Settings

• QuickBooks Database Server Manager not running

• Network issues or disconnected workstations

• QuickBooks services (QBCFMonitor or QBDBMgrN) not started

How to Identify QuickBooks Error H202

If you're unsure whether you're facing this error, look for these signs:

• You can't open the company file in multi-user mode

• QuickBooks freezes or becomes unresponsive

• You receive a pop-up message with Error Code H202

• You lose access to the file located on a different computer

How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202

Here are step-by-step solutions that can help resolve QuickBooks Error H202. Start with the first method and proceed if the issue isn’t fixed.

 Method 1: Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager

1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub.

2. Launch Tool Hub and click Network Issues.

3. Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

4. Click Start Scan after choosing the folder where the company file is located.

5. Once scanning is complete, open QuickBooks in multi-user mode again.

Tip: If the tool finds any issue, it will repair it automatically.

 Method 2: Check and Configure Hosting Settings

On each workstation:

1. Open QuickBooks and go to File > Utilities.

2. If you see “Host Multi-User Access,” do not select it.

3. If you see “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access,” click it and confirm.

Then on the server computer:

1. Make sure it is set to Host Multi-User Mode.

 Method 3: Create a New Windows Firewall Rule

1. Go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall.

2. Select Advanced Settings > Inbound Rules > New Rule.

3. Choose Port, then click Next.

4. Enter the following TCP ports:

   • QuickBooks Desktop 2024: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382

5. Allow the connection, name the rule, and finish setup.

6. Repeat for Outbound Rules.

 Method 4: Ping the Server

1. Press Windows + R, type CMD, and press Enter.

2. Type ping [server name] and press Enter.

   • For example: ping SERVER01

3. If there’s a long response time or lost packets, network issues might be the cause.

 Method 5: Edit Windows Hosts File

1. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc\hosts

2. Open it with Notepad.

3. Add the IP address and server name.

   • Example: 192.168.1.110 SERVER01

4. Save the file and try accessing the file again.

 Method 6: Restart QuickBooks Services

1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.

2. Look for:

   • QuickBooksDBXX

   • QBCFMonitorService

3. Right-click each, choose Restart, and set them to Automatic.

When to Contact QuickBooks Support

If none of the above methods work or you’re uncomfortable performing these steps, contact a certified QuickBooks expert at:

 +1(866)408-0544

Quick assistance can save you time and avoid data loss.

Preventing QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future

Avoiding this error is possible with regular maintenance and proper setup. Here are some tips:

• Keep QuickBooks and Windows updated

• Use a dedicated server for hosting

• Check network cables and connectivity regularly

• Set up reliable DNS and IP settings

• Allow QuickBooks through your firewall

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Error H202 can disrupt your business operations, especially when team collaboration is vital. But with the right steps and tools, it’s a problem you can fix. Whether it’s adjusting firewall settings, restarting services, or configuring hosting options, each fix brings you closer to a seamless multi-user environment.

Still stuck or want a faster resolution? Call +1(866)408-0544 for professional help and get back to work with peace of mind.