Introduction
When utilizing QuickBooks in a multi-user environment, you may have faced QuickBooks Error H202, an annoying problem that stops you from opening your company file located on a different computer. This error frequently appears with a notification such as “This company file is located on a different computer, and QuickBooks requires assistance to connect.”
QuickBooks is a robust accounting software, but it depends significantly on seamless network connectivity between the server and client machines. When that link deteriorates, users encounter H202 errors and cannot operate in multi-user mode.
This guide will explain what QuickBooks Error H202 signifies, the reasons it happens, and straightforward but efficient ways to resolve it. We will also briefly discuss QuickBooks Form 941, as multi-user access problems can impact your capability to file payroll forms correctly
What Is QuickBooks Error H202 and Why Does It Occur?
QuickBooks Error H202 happens when your workstation is unable to connect to the company file located on a different computer (the server). This typically occurs in multi-user mode, where multiple users require concurrent access to the same file.
Common Causes of QuickBooks Error H202:
- Incorrect Server Setup: If hosting isn’t configured correctly on your server computer, QuickBooks might not identify it as the file host.
- Blocked Network Ports: QuickBooks needs specific ports to remain open for communication with the database server. Firewalls or antivirus software may occasionally prevent these.
- Faulty or Incorrectly Configured DNS Settings: Wrong DNS configurations can prevent QuickBooks from finding the server computer in your network.
- Inactive QuickBooks Database Server Manager: If the QuickBooks Database Server Manager isn’t operating, multi-user access will be unsuccessful, resulting in Error H202.
- Corrupted Company File or Network Data File (.ND): A corrupted or improperly set up .ND file can interfere with the link between QuickBooks and the server.
This issue impacts not only routine accounting tasks but may also postpone essential activities like payroll updates or submitting QuickBooks Form 941, as you might lose access to payroll information saved on the shared file.
Verifying QuickBooks Database Server Manager Settings
An effective method to fix QuickBooks Error H202 is by verifying your QuickBooks Database Server Manager (QBDSM) configurations. This tool handles the connection for multi-user mode, enabling several users to access the same company file at the same time.
Follow to these steps to confirm and modify the configurations:
Step 1: Launch QuickBooks Database Server Manager
- On the server computer, access the Windows Start menu and enter QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
- Launch the application and select Start Scan if your business file directory appears.
- If not, click Browse, find the folder with your QuickBooks company file, and then select Start Scan.
Step 2: Grant Permissions and Firewall Access
- While scanning, the Database Server Manager will automatically set up firewall permissions for QuickBooks.
- After the scan finishes, reboot the server computer.
Step 3: Confirm Hosting Configurations
- Launch QuickBooks on the server machine and navigate to File > Utilities.
- Make sure that “Host Multi-User Access” is checked (not “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access”).
Step 4: Evaluate Multi-User Functionality
- Visit a workstation, launch QuickBooks, and attempt to switch to Multi-User Mode.
- If it launches without an error, the problem is fixed.
If QuickBooks Error H202 persists, proceed with the additional steps below to secure a reliable connection
Additional Methods to Fix QuickBooks Error H202
Although checking the QuickBooks Database Server Manager resolves most problems, there are occasions when more extensive network or file-level diagnostics are needed.
1. Send a ping to the server computer.
- On the workstation, launch the Command Prompt and enter:- ping [your server’s name]
- Press Return.
If you do not get a response, there might be an issue with network connectivity in computers.
2. Verify Windows Firewall Configuration
- Navigate to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Allow an App Through Firewall.
- Ensure that QuickBooks and QuickBooks Database Server Manager have permissions set for both Private and Public networks.
3. Change the names of the .ND and .TLG files.
- Access the directory that holds your business file.
- Find files that share the same name as your company file, but have extensions .ND and .TLG.
- Right-click on each file and select Rename, then append .old to the end.
- Restart QuickBooks to automatically generate these files again.
4. Utilize QuickBooks Tool Hub
- Obtain and launch QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit’s official site.
- Go to Network Issues > QuickBooks Database Server Manager to recheck your files.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error H202 is a prevalent issue in multi-user mode that businesses encounter, yet it’s among the easiest to resolve when following the correct steps. Restoring full access and avoiding downtime can be achieved by checking your QuickBooks Database Server Manager settings, modifying firewall permissions, and ensuring a reliable network connection.
Reach out to the QuickBooks Support Team at +1-866-500-0076 for professional help. Our certified experts can assist you in resolving the error, addressing connectivity problems, and ensuring your QuickBooks operates seamlessly.
