QuickBooks Error H202 is a common
issue that can disrupt the smooth functioning of your QuickBooks software,
especially when using QuickBooks in multi-user mode. This error typically
indicates that the multi-user setup is trying to access the company file
located on another computer, and the connection to the server is blocked.
Addressing this error promptly is crucial to ensure your accounting processes
run without interruption.
In this comprehensive guide, we will
explore the top 10 best options for resolving QuickBooks
Error H202 in 2024.
To help you fix this problem, we
have some resources in this article. But if you need expert help, you can
contact us anytime. We have a team of QuickBooks experts who are available 24/7 to assist you. Just call our
support line at +1–844–712–2521.
Understanding
QuickBooks Error H202
QuickBooks Error H202 usually occurs
when QuickBooks Desktop tries to establish a connection to the company file,
but the communication is interrupted. This interruption can be due to several
reasons, including:
- Network issues:
Incorrect hosting settings, network configuration, or a blocked
communication path.
- DNS Server issues:
Domain Name System (DNS) settings could be misconfigured.
- Server Computer Firewall settings: Firewall settings on the server may be blocking the
communication.
- Incorrect QuickBooks Database Server Manager settings: This utility helps manage the multi-user network, and
incorrect settings can cause issues.
- Workstation cannot communicate with the server: The workstation might be unable to communicate with
the server due to network issues.
Now, let’s dive into the top 10
solutions to fix QuickBooks Error H202.
Top
10 Best Options to Fix QuickBooks Error H202
Verify Network Connectivity
Ensuring that all computers are
properly connected to the network is the first step. Here’s how:
- Ping the Server:
On your workstation, open the Command Prompt and type ping [Server Name].
Replace [Server Name] with the actual name of your server. If the server
responds, the network connection is good. If not, check your network
cables, and switches, and ensure all devices are properly connected to the
network.
Use QuickBooks File Doctor
QuickBooks File
Doctor is a powerful tool provided by
Intuit to fix network issues and company file problems.
- Download and Run:
Download the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website. Open
the tool and select “Company File Issues” and then “Run QuickBooks File
Doctor.” Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and fix the issue.
Configure Firewall Settings
Firewalls can sometimes block the
communication path required for QuickBooks. To ensure that your firewall
settings are correct:
- Create Firewall Rules:
Open your firewall settings and create new inbound and outbound rules for
QuickBooks. Allow the following ports:
- QuickBooks Desktop 2019 and later: 8019, 56728,
55378-55382
- QuickBooks Desktop 2018: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377
- QuickBooks Desktop 2017: 8019, 56726, 55368-55372
Check Hosting Settings
Incorrect hosting settings can lead
to QuickBooks Error H202. Here’s how to verify and correct them:
- On the Server:
Open QuickBooks, go to “File” > “Utilities” > “Host Multi-User
Access.”
- On the Workstation:
Open QuickBooks, go to “File” > “Utilities.” Ensure that “Stop Hosting
Multi-User Access” is an option. If “Host Multi-User Access” is an option,
it means the settings are correct.
Verify QuickBooks Services
QuickBooks uses certain services
that need to be running on the server. Verify these services as follows:
- Open Services.msc:
Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
- Check Services:
Ensure that “QuickBooks DBXX” (where XX is your version) and “QBCF MonitorService”
are running. If not, start them manually.
Use the QuickBooks Database Server Manager
The QuickBooks Database Server
Manager helps manage the multi-user mode. Ensure it is set up correctly:
- Open Database Server Manager: Open QuickBooks Tool Hub, select “Network Issues,”
and then “QuickBooks Database Server Manager.”
- Scan Folders:
Click on “Start Scan” to scan the folders that contain your QuickBooks
company files.
Edit the Host File
Editing the host file on your server
and workstations can help resolve communication issues:
- Locate Host File:
Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc and open the hosts file using Notepad.
- Add Server Information: Add the IP address and server name at the end of the
file. Save and close the file.
Restart QuickBooks Services
Restarting QuickBooks services can
often resolve the issue:
- Restart Services:
Open, locate “QuickBooks DBXX” and “QBCF MonitorService,” right-click, and
select “Restart.”
Use QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool
The QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic
Tool can diagnose and fix network and company file issues:
- Download and Run:
Download the tool from the Intuit website, run it, and follow the
on-screen instructions.
Check for Windows Updates
Keeping your Windows OS updated is
crucial for the smooth functioning of applications like QuickBooks:
- Update Windows: Go to “Settings” > “Update & Security” > “Windows Update” and check for updates. Install any available updates.
FAQ Section
What
is QuickBooks Error H202?
QuickBooks
Error H202 occurs when QuickBooks Desktop is
trying to establish a connection to the company file, but the communication is
blocked.
How
can I prevent QuickBooks Error H202?
To prevent this error, ensure proper
network setup, regularly update QuickBooks and Windows, and configure your
firewall settings correctly.
Can
QuickBooks File Doctor fix Error H202?
Yes, QuickBooks File Doctor can
diagnose and fix issues related to network and company file problems.
Do
I need to configure firewall settings for QuickBooks?
Yes, configuring firewall settings
is crucial as it allows QuickBooks to communicate over the network without
being blocked.
What
if my QuickBooks services are not running?
Ensure that “QuickBooks DBXX” and
“QBCF Monitor Service” are running. You can start them manually from services.msc.
How
do I edit the host file for QuickBooks?
Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc, open the hosts file using Notepad, and add the IP address and server name
at the end of the file.
Why
is network connectivity important for QuickBooks?
Proper network connectivity ensures
that QuickBooks can communicate with the server hosting the company file,
preventing errors like H202.
How
often should I check for Windows updates?
Regularly check for Windows updates
at least once a month to ensure your system has the latest security patches and
improvements.
What
is QuickBooks Database Server Manager?
QuickBooks Database Server Manager
helps manage the multi-user network, ensuring all workstations can access the
company file.
Can
outdated QuickBooks software cause Error H202?
Yes, outdated QuickBooks software
can cause various issues, including Error H202. Always keep your QuickBooks
updated to the latest version.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error H202 can be a
significant hindrance, especially in a multi-user environment. However, by
following the above solutions, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve
this error. Ensuring proper network connectivity, configuring firewall
settings, and using tools like QuickBooks File Doctor and QuickBooks Database
Server Manager are crucial steps. Regularly updating QuickBooks and your
operating system can also prevent such issues from occurring.
By implementing these best
practices, you can maintain a smooth and efficient accounting process in
QuickBooks, minimizing downtime and ensuring seamless operations in your
business.
