QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when QuickBooks Desktop attempts to switch to multi-user mode but encounters issues connecting to the server hosting the company file. This error typically indicates that something is preventing the multi-user connection to your server.
Common Causes of QuickBooks Error H202:
Hosting Configuration Issues: Incorrect hosting settings can disrupt the connection between workstations and the server.
Firewall or Security Software Interference: Firewalls or security programs may block necessary communication ports, hindering QuickBooks' ability to connect.
DNS Server Conflicts: Conflicts with the DNS server can prevent QuickBooks from locating the server hosting the company file.
QuickBooks Services Not Running: Essential QuickBooks services, such as QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService, may not be running on the server.
Damaged Network Data (.ND) File: A corrupted .ND file can disrupt the multi-user connection.
Steps to Resolve QuickBooks Error H202:
Verify Hosting Settings:
Ensure that only the server computer is set to host the company file.
On workstations, navigate to the File menu and select Utilities. If the option to Stop Hosting Multi-User Mode is available, click it.
On the server, go to the File menu, select Utilities, and click Host Multi-User Mode.
Configure Firewall and Security Software:
Set up your firewall to allow QuickBooks Desktop through.
Ensure that the following ports are open:
TCP Port 8019
UDP Port 56727
UDP Port 55363
UDP Port 55368
For detailed instructions on configuring firewall and security settings, refer to Intuit's guide.
Verify DNS Server Settings:
Confirm that the DNS server settings on your workstations and server are correct and consistent.
Use the Ping command to test connectivity between workstations and the server.
Restart QuickBooks Services:
On the server, press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
Navigate to the Services tab.
Locate QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService.
If their status is not Running, right-click each service and select Start.
Repair QuickBooks Database Server Manager:
Open QuickBooks Desktop on the server computer.
Open the company file in multi-user mode.
Close the company file.
Use the Windows Start button to search for QuickBooks Database Server Manager and open it to restart it.
For more detailed steps, refer to Intuit's support page.
Rename the Network Data (.ND) File:
Navigate to the folder containing your company file.
Locate the file with the same name as your company file but with a .ND extension.
Rename it by adding ".OLD" at the end.
QuickBooks will create a new .ND file when you next open the company file.
Use the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool:
Download and run the QuickBooks File Doctor tool to automatically detect and resolve common network issues.
This tool can help fix errors related to multi-user setups and network connectivity.
If, after performing these steps, you continue to experience Error H202, consider reaching out to QuickBooks Support for further assistance. They can provide personalized troubleshooting steps based on your specific network configuration and QuickBooks setup.
Note: Always ensure that you have a recent backup of your QuickBooks company file before making significant changes to your system or network settings.