Are you struggling with QuickBooks Error H202 while switching on to multi-user mode in QuickBooks? If yes, then no worries, we are here to guide you resolve it with simple and actionable steps. This error usually prevents your server (host computer) from accessing the QuickBooks company files stored in it.
And the Error message that might appear on your screen associated with this error typically states:
“This company file is located on a different computer, and QuickBooks requires assistance to establish a connection.”
or
“There is an issue with the multi-user hosting setup. QuickBooks was unable to open the file in multi-user mode. (H202)”
In other words, this warning message conveys that QuickBooks is unable to establish a connection with the server hosting the company file, which is often the root cause of Error H202.
In this article, we have shared the complete details so as to how you can get rid of QuickBooks error code H202 easily without risking your company file data. Thus, keep reading this article till the end and explore the ways to fix this H series error easily.
Essential Things You Need to Know About QuickBooks Error H202
QuickBooks Error H202 is part of the H series of errors, that typically arises due to incorrect hosting settings, firewall restrictions or network configuration problems. As mentioned above, it is a multi-user mode error and might prevent you from accessing a QB company file that is stored on another computer.
Potential Reasons of QuickBooks Error Code H202 to occur:
Before trying to resolve any error in software, it is very important to identify and understand the potential causes of its origin. The most prominent reason for this particular error to occur is primarily the lack of communication between the server (host computer) and the QuickBooks software. Apart from this, there are few other reasons for this error to occur, as listed below. Let’s take a look:
- When QuickBooks Desktop is unable to locate the server’s IP address hosting the company file.
- Your system is not properly configured for the host settings.
- QuickBooks Database server manager has not started properly. For guidance, visit QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool.
- The network (. ND) or the transaction log files are corrupted or damaged due to a virus or malware attack.
- Essential QuickBooks services such as QBCFMONITOR and QuickBooksDBXX, are not running properly in your system.
- If in the case DNS Settings are not set correctly in your system.
- Firewall or security software is blocking the Communication
Now that we have an idea of what causes error H202 in QuickBooks Desktop, let us know what are the warning signals that indicates this error:
- As mentioned earlier it prevents to switching to multi-user mode in QuickBooks.
- If you’ve tried many times but still can’t open the company file stored on another computer.
- If your system or QuickBooks keeps freezing for a few seconds repeatedly.
- If QuickBooks becomes slow or stops responding entirely.
- If the error message shows up directly on your screen.
- If your Windows system is running slower than usual or takes time to respond to commands.
Reliable Methods to Resolve QuickBooks Error H202 in Multi-User Mode
Alright before moving ahead to the solutions that can resolve this QuickBooks error H202, ensure you are logged in as an admin in QuickBooks.
Let us dive into the reliable solutions to fix the multi-user mode error, explained below:
Method I: Install and run the QuickBooks Database Server Manager
QuickBooks database server manager helps you in sharing the company file in multi-user mode over the network. If it is not installed in your system, the QuickBooks H202 error definitely hits your system. Follow the below-outlined steps as it is to install QuickBooks database server manager:
- Under this process, you need to download QuickBooks database server manager in your system.
- After completing the download, open the downloaded folder and search for the setup file named setup_QuickBooks.exe.
- Complete the on-screen prompts to complete the installation process.
- Provide the necessary details, such as license number, and product number, if asked.
- Ahead, select the installation type and click on the Next button.
- Click on the INSTALL NOW button to install the application.
After the QuickBooks database server manager is installed, you need to run the application to fix the error.
- To open the application, double-click on the desktop icon.
- Click on the Start button, if the QuickBooks Database server manager displays your firm file folder. If not, move to the location where the company file is stored and click on the Start button.
- The tool automatically fixes the error by granting the necessary permissions on your firewalls.
- Press the Close button when the scanning process is over.
Method II: Utilise various Tools available in QuickBooks Tool Hub
QuickBooks tool hub is a collection of multiple tools that are used to fix technical and non-technical glitches.
In order to use the tool, you must install it on your system. The steps that will guide the entire process include:
- Visit Intuit’s official website and look for the QuickBooks tool hub’s version.
- Further, press the Download button to initiate the downloading process of the tool in your system.
- Complete the on-screen instructions and agree with the terms and conditions to complete the installation process.
- QuickBooks Tool Hub desktop icon will appear on your screen when it is installed in your system.
Use QuickBooks File Doctor from the QuickBooks Tool Hub
- To open the QuickBooks Tool Hub, double-click on its desktop icon.
- Thereafter, move to the Company File Issue tab and press the QuickBooks File Doctor button.
- Pick the company file throwing the issue and choose the appropriate repair option.
- Lastly, press the Continue button to diagnose and fix the issues coming within the company file.
Method III: Configure the Firewall Settings on the Server
Many times, the wrong firewall settings will restrict you from opening the company file in the multiple-user mode. Therefore, by simply changing the firewall settings using the steps mentioned below, you can fix QuickBooks error H202 by switching to multi-user mode.
- Under this process, you must open the Windows Firewall in your system.
- Go Ahead and move to the Advanced settings option.
- In the opened window, click on the Inbound Rules and then pick the New Rules option.
- Further, choose Programs and click on the Next button.
- Press Allow This Connection and press the Next button.
- Provide the name of the newly created rule and press the OK button.
If your software is outdated, follow our guide on Updating QuickBooks.
Important Note: Set up the outbound rules in the same way.
Method IV: Rename the transaction log (.TLG) and network (.ND) Files
The transaction log files (.TLG) and network log files (. ND) are pivotal files in QuickBooks, which help in opening the QuickBooks company file. If these files are damaged or corrupted for some reason, you will definitely face QuickBooks Multi-user error h202.
Follow the steps explained below, that will guide you in renaming both the. TLG and. ND files, one by one, are included as:
- In this method, open the folder where QuickBooks company files are stored in your system.
- Now, in the opened folder, search for the (. ND) (.TLG files).
Usually, these files have the same name as the company file name but with the .nd and .tlg file extensions
- Right-click on these files one by one and choose the Rename option.
- Furthermore, add .old at the end of the file name to rename them, for example, the company filename.nd.old.
- Click anywhere on the desktop to save the renamed file.
Method V: Check the folder permissions on the server
The folder storing the company file must have the necessary permission to share the company file with another system. If not, then H202 error will prompt up on your screen. Eliminate the error by following the steps mentioned below:
- Under this process, open the company file folder on your server system.
- Right-click on the company file folder and pick the Properties option from drop-down list.
- In the properties window, move to the Security tab and press the button stating Advance.
- Here, select QBDataServiceuserXX and press the Edit button.
- Lastly, choose the Essential QuickBooks Services and press the Allow button.
If the permissions are set incorrectly
The steps that need to follow to resolve the issue are:
- Initially, right-click on the company file folder and pick the Properties option from the drop-down list.
- After that, choose Security and click on the Edit tab.
- Further, select QBDataServiceuserXX and allow “Full Control” option to it.
- Finally, Click the OK button to apply the changes.
Also Read: How to resolve QuickBooks update error 1625?
Method VI: Ping the Server from the Workstations
If the connection between the server and the workstations is interrupted, the QuickBooks multi-user mode H 202 error will appear on your screen. The best way to fix the issue is to ping the server from each workstation, is following the steps mentioned below:
- On the server system, click on the Start button and type Run in the Search Panel.
- Press the Enter key to open the run window. In the opened window, type CMD and press the enter key.
- It will open a black window with a blinking cursor. In this window, type Ipconfig/all and press the enter key.
- A window containing the information will appear on your screen. Here, locate the Windows IP Configuration section to find the hostname.
- Copy the server’s name on the notepad.
- Now, move to the workstation and open the RUN window.
- In the Run window, type “CMD” and press the Enter key to open the command prompt.
- Here, type “PING (your server’s name), type the exact server name excluding brackets,” and press the enter key.
- Perform the same steps from all the workstations experiencing the issue.
If the ping reply from each workstation shows no packet loss, then network is fine. However, if the response is delayed, then this indicate that there might be some network issue that needs to be repaired.
Concluding!
This article highlights almost all the possible causes of encountering QuickBooks error H202 when attempting to switch to multi-user mode. However, comprehensive troubleshooting is key to resolving a complex error like H202 or QuickBooks Error H505, and we’ve outlined various methods, each focusing on a specific aspect of the multi-user setup.
If you still find it challenging to resolve the issue yourself, or if the problem persists despite your efforts, it’s a good idea to reach out to a QuickBooks professional. Connect with an expert at Transync Pro for assistance.
