Learn clear, precise steps to resolve QuickBooks Error H202 when switching to multi-user mode. This guide offers tested solutions and preventative tips

What Is QuickBooks Error H202?

Error H202 appears when QuickBooks Desktop cannot access your company file on another computer in multi-user mode. This occurs when a workstation cannot connect to the server hosting the file. The message usually reads:

“This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting. (H202)”

Why Does Error H202 Occur?

1. Firewall or security software blocks QuickBooks communication

2. Incorrect hosting settings on workstations or server

3. Crucial services (QuickBooksDBXX, QBCFMonitorService) aren’t running or lack permissions

4. Network issues like lost packets or slow response time

Step-by-Step Solutions

Follow these steps in order. Confirm whether multi-user mode works after each step.

1. Use QuickBooks Tool Hub – Network Issues

1. Close QuickBooks on all computers.

2. Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub on the server.

3. Open Tool Hub → select Network Issues → QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

4. Browse to your company file folder, click Start Scan to refresh firewall settings.

5. After the scan, return to workstations and select File → Switch to Multi-User Mode.

2. Run QuickBooks File Doctor

1. In Tool Hub, go to Company File Issues.

2. Click Run QuickBooks File Doctor, select your company file, check Network, and enter admin password.

3. Run the repair.

4. Try multi-user mode again on each workstation.

3. Check Hosting Configuration

On the server:

1. Open QuickBooks → File → Utilities → select Host Multi-User Access if available.

On workstations:

1. Open QuickBooks → File → Utilities.

2. If you see Host Multi-User Access, do not select it. Instead, select Stop Hosting Multi-User Access.

4.Confirm QuickBooks Services

1. Run services.msc.

2. For QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService:

3. Reboot server, then attempt multi-user mode.

5. Test Network Connectivity

1. On server and affected workstations:

2. On server, open Command Prompt:

3. On each workstation, open Command Prompt:

4. If ping fails or shows packet loss, consult an IT professional.

6. Adjust Firewall and Port Settings

1. Open Windows Firewall settings on server.

2. Add inbound rules allowing QuickBooks apps:

3. Open required ports depending on your QuickBooks version (e.g., 8019, 55368–55382).

4. Re-test multi-user switch on workstations.

7. Rename .ND and .TLG Files

1. Close QuickBooks.

2. In company file folder, locate files ending in .ND and .TLG.

3. Rename them to add .old (e.g., Company.qbw.ND.old).

4. Open QuickBooks; it will recreate fresh versions.

5. Attempt multi-user mode again.

Preventing Future Occurrences

1. Keep QuickBooks services set to Automatic.

2. Maintain updated firewall rules and port access.

3. Run Database Server Manager scan monthly.

4. Avoid hosting company files on non-Windows servers or NAS.

When to Seek Professional Help

Consider expert IT support or QuickBooks professionals if:

1. Ping tests show network instability.

2. Firewall or DNS issues persist.

3. Problems reoccur frequently despite following above steps.

Conclusion

Apply these steps in order, confirming multi-user mode after each:

1. Tool Hub scanning

2. File Doctor

3. Hosting settings

4. Service verification

5. Network checks

6. Firewall configuration

7. Renaming support files

Following this guide will help you resolve QuickBooks Error Code H202 and keep your multi-user setup reliable.