When using QuickBooks Desktop in a multi-user environment, you may encounter Quickbooks Error Code h202. This error typically appears when a user tries to access a company file located on another computer, but QuickBooks cannot reach the server. This means the multi-user setup is broken, and the file isn’t accessible as expected.
QuickBooks Error H202 is part of the H-series errors and is specifically related to connectivity issues within a network.
Learn how to resolve QuickBooks Error H202 and restore multi-user mode access with expert-approved solutions and step-by-step troubleshooting. Call +1-866-409-5111 for help.
Signs You Are Facing QuickBooks Error H202
You might be experiencing Error H202 if you notice the following:
QuickBooks freezes or runs slowly in multi-user mode.
Error message: “You are trying to work with a company file located on another computer, and this copy of QuickBooks cannot reach the server (H202)”
Inability to switch to multi-user mode.
QuickBooks crashes intermittently.
Causes of QuickBooks Error H202
Understanding the reasons behind this error is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Here are the most common causes:
Incorrect Hosting Configuration: One or more systems in your network may be set up incorrectly.
Blocked QuickBooks Services: Windows Firewall or third-party security software might be blocking QuickBooks.
Unavailable QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDBMgrN): This service is necessary to access files in multi-user mode.
Damaged or incorrect DNS settings.
Issues with the Network Data (.ND) file.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202
1. Run the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool
QuickBooks Tool Hub includes the File Doctor tool which can automatically detect and resolve H202 and other network-related issues.
Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Open the Tool Hub and select Network Issues.
Run QuickBooks File Doctor, select your company file, and let the scan complete.
2. Verify Hosting Settings
Ensure only the server system hosts the company file:
Go to File > Utilities in QuickBooks.
On the workstations (non-server), confirm “Host Multi-User Access” is not selected.
On the server computer, ensure “Host Multi-User Access” is enabled.
3. Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager
If your network configuration is incorrect, this tool can help:
Open QuickBooks Tool Hub > Network Issues > QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Click Browse to find your company file folder and scan it.
After scanning, try opening the file in multi-user mode again.
4. Configure Firewall and Antivirus
Check if your firewall or antivirus software is blocking communication:
Open your firewall settings.
Add exceptions for QuickBooks ports (8019, 56728, 55378–55382).
Ensure QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService are allowed access.
You can also consider visiting this page to learn how to Upgrade QuickBooks Desktop, which sometimes resolves persistent network and hosting issues automatically through improved compatibility and performance.
Additional Troubleshooting Methods
5. Ping the Server from Workstations
Testing connectivity via the Command Prompt:
On each workstation, open Command Prompt.
Type: ping [ServerName] and press Enter.
If packet loss occurs or you get timeouts, your network needs fixing.
6. Create a New Windows Admin User
At times, user profile corruption can restrict access:
Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Manage Another Account > Add new user.
Assign admin privileges.
Log in with the new user and access QuickBooks again.
7. Rename the .ND File
The .ND file helps QuickBooks find your company file over the network:
Navigate to your company file folder.
Look for a file like CompanyName.qbw.nd.
Rename it to CompanyName.qbw.nd.old.
Restart QuickBooks and open your company file.
Preventing QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future
Always keep QuickBooks Desktop updated.
Avoid using unstable or public Wi-Fi for company file access.
Regularly check hosting and firewall settings.
Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager every time you change file location or network settings.
Learn More:
Facing other multi-user issues? Check out this QuickBooks multi-user mode not working guide for additional solutions and FAQs.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error H202 can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts access to your critical business data. But with the right steps—like verifying network setup, checking firewall rules, and using QuickBooks tools—you can resolve the issue quickly and get back to work. If you continue facing trouble, it’s best to seek professional support.
Need immediate help? Call our support team at +1-866-409-5111 for expert assistance.