Introduction
You may come across QuickBooks error code H505 when switching to multi-user mode. This often appears on the screen, indicating that something is blocking QB from connecting to your server. Consequently, you won’t be able to access the company file located on the server. The reasons that trigger such an issue are run hosting settings, the inability to get the server’s IP address, damaged Network Data, and many more. The message that is displayed on the screen is: “Error Code: H505
This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.” As it might create a hindrance to your work, it needs to be resolved as soon as possible. Get a thorough review of this entire blog and start implementing the solutions mentioned.
If you fail to eliminate QB error H505, don’t hesitate to consult an IT professional. Give a call to 1-855-888-3080, and they will help you with the best assistance.
What is QuickBooks Error Code H505?
QuickBooks Error H505 is part of a group of H-series errors that relate to network problems. This specific error occurs when a user tries to access a company file that is stored on a different computer, but QuickBooks cannot connect to the server that hosts the file.
QuickBooks is designed to allow multiple users to access the same company file in a shared environment. However, to do this smoothly, certain settings and permissions must be in place. If any of these settings are incorrect or missing, Error H505 can appear.
Understanding the Root Cause of QB Error Code H505
Read this list to know the reasons why you often get into trouble while switching to multi-user mode. Here, we have mentioned some causes behind QuickBooks error H505.
- It might be due to wrong DNS settings.
- You may run into this error if the network data (.ND) is damaged.
- Restrictive firewall settings can be responsible for preventing you from connecting to the server.
- If there are multiple workstations hosting the company files.
- QB Desktop fails to locate the server computer’s IP address.
- It could be due to wrong hosting settings.
- You may encounter this error if QB Database Server Manager is not functioning appropriately.
- It can be due to damaged or corrupted system files.
Common Reasons Behind Error Code H505
To fix this error, it helps to know why it’s happening. Here are the most common reasons for QuickBooks Error Code H505:
- The hosting settings are not configured properly on the server
- The computer hosting the file is not reachable over the network
- The QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running
- Firewall or antivirus software is blocking QuickBooks communication
- Incorrect DNS settings or network issues
- Damaged or corrupted .ND (Network Data) files
Once you understand the reason, it becomes easier to apply the right fix.
Signs That You’re Facing Error H505
Before diving into solutions, it’s important to be sure that H505 is the error you’re dealing with. Here are a few signs:
- QuickBooks displays “Error Code H505” when opening a file
- You cannot access the company file from a different computer
- The multi-user mode is not working
- The system becomes slow or freezes when trying to open the file
- You get a message saying that QuickBooks cannot connect to the server
Steps To Execute When QuickBooks Error Code H505 Occurs
Consider the following steps and rectify error H505 in a very short time. After conducting deep research about the problem, experts have come up with these solutions and shared them with you. Look at them thoroughly:
Solution 1: Check if the hosting setting is on or off
On workstations:
- Open the QB application on each workstation where you have experienced error H101, H303, or H505.
- Go to the File menu.
- Tap on Utilities.
- Click on the Stop Hosting Multi-User Access option if this appears on the screen.
- Last, restart your computer.
On server computer:
- Open QB, not the company file.
- Click on File.
- Choose Utilities.
- Tap on the Host Multi-User Access option to enable hosting.
- If you see the Stop Multi-User Access option, clicking it is prohibited.
Solution 2: Configure firewall settings manually
- You can add a firewall port exception for QB. See how:
- Go to the Start menu.
- Type Windows Firewall and open it.
- Click on Advanced Settings.
- Right-click on Inbound Rules.
- Later, you will need to select New Rule.
- Now, choose Port, followed by Next.
- There, the TCP option must be chosen.
- Hover over the Specific local ports field.
- And, based on the QuickBooks year version, input the port number:
- QuickBooks Desktop 2018: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382.
- QuickBooks Desktop 2017: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377
- Choose Next after entering the port number.
- Click on Allow the Connection.
- Tap Next.
- If you are shown, ensure that all profiles are marked.
- Pick Next.
- Create a rule and name it like “QBPorts(year).”
- When this is done, tap Finish.
- You must do the same for creating Outbound Rules. Just change the step where you are selecting Inbound Rules. This time, you need to tap on Outbound Rules.
- Finally, open QBDT and switch to multi-user mode.
- Alternatively, you can also open QB over the network from any workstation.
Solution 3: Ping your server from the workstation
- Go to the Start menu.
- Type Network and open Network and Sharing Center.
- Choose Change advanced sharing settings.
- Head to the Network Discovery and File and Printer sharing sections.
- Ensure that the Turn on network discovery option is chosen.
Now, you need to find out the server name from your server.
- Go to the Start menu.
- Enter Run and open the Run window.
- In the search space, write CMD and hit Enter.
- Next, type ipconfig/all and press Enter.
- Look for the Windows IP Configuration section, where you will get the Host Name.
- The right side is your server name.
- Take note of this name, or you can copy it to the Word document.
Traverse back to the workstation to test the server. You can also connect to a professional for the same.
- Go to the Start menu.
- Search for Run and open the Run window.
- Type CMD and hit Enter.
- Write ping [your server name] and again press Enter. Remember, you don’t need to place brackets around the server name.
- Do this for all the workstations where you have encountered error H505.
If the reply for each packet is no loss, the server is working fine.
If it shows packet loss or a very slow reply. You must connect with a professional for help.
Preventing QuickBooks Error H505 in the Future
Once you’ve fixed the error, it’s a good idea to prevent it from coming back. Here are some tips:
- Always keep QuickBooks updated
- Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager if you’re using multi-user mode
- Don’t turn on hosting on more than one computer
- Regularly scan and repair company files
- Make sure all users have permission to access the shared folders
- Use strong but reliable antivirus and firewall settings
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error Code H505 is a common issue that usually occurs when trying to open a company file in multi-user mode. It can be caused by hosting settings, network issues, or blocked connections. The good news is that you don’t need to be a tech expert to fix it. By following simple steps like adjusting hosting settings, configuring your firewall, using the QuickBooks Database Server Manager, and checking services, you can resolve the error quickly. Fixing this error not only restores access to your file but also helps keep your accounting workflow smooth and trouble-free.
Closing Remarks
The overall blog explains why you come across QuickBooks error code H505, and this can be easily fixed. For this, you have been provided with some easy methods throughout the post. Try them out, and if they don’t help, consult a professional at 1-855-888-3080.
You may also read: Here is What You Can do to Resolve QuickBooks Error 1328
