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Why You're Seeing QuickBooks Error H202 (And How to Resolve It)

QuickBooks is a powerful accounting tool trusted by small and medium-sized businesses to manage finances efficiently. However, like any software, it can sometimes throw unexpected errors that interrupt your workflow. One of the most common issues users face is QuickBooks Error H202. This error typically appears when you're trying to access a company file located on another computer but QuickBooks cannot reach the server.


In this article, we'll break down everything you need to know about QuickBooks Error H202, how it's related to QuickBooks Error PS038, and the most effective solutions to resolve it. If you want expert help, don’t hesitate to call +1-866-408-0544.


What is QuickBooks Error H202?


QuickBooks Error H202 is part of the H-series errors, which occur in multi-user mode when QuickBooks is unable to communicate with the server hosting the company file. The full error message might read:


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


Common Signs of Error H202:

  • You can’t switch to multi-user mode.

  • QuickBooks freezes or crashes frequently.

  • The error message pops up every time you try to open the company file from another workstation.

  • You experience lag while accessing files hosted on another system.


What Causes QuickBooks Error H202?


Understanding the root cause can help you apply the most suitable fix. Here are the common reasons why you might encounter this error:

  • Incorrect hosting configuration in QuickBooks.

  • Blocked ports or settings in the Windows firewall.

  • QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running.

  • Damaged or missing network files (.ND files).

  • DNS server conflicts or network issues.

  • Third-party firewall or antivirus interfering with communication.


How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202 – Step-by-Step Solutions


Solution 1: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub


The QuickBooks Tool Hub is your one-stop solution for fixing common QuickBooks issues.

Steps:

  1. Download the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit site.

  2. Install and open the Tool Hub.

  3. Click on “Network Issues” from the left menu.

  4. Select “QuickBooks Database Server Manager” and scan the folder where your company file is located.

  5. Once the scan is complete, try accessing the file again.


If you need help using the Tool Hub, call +1-866-408-0544.


Solution 2: Verify Hosting Settings


Improper hosting settings can trigger QuickBooks Error H202.


Steps:

  1. Open QuickBooks on each workstation.

  2. Go to File > Utilities.

  3. If you see “Host Multi-User Access”, don’t click it—this means hosting is not enabled, which is correct.

  4. If it shows “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access”, click on it to disable it on workstations.

Only the server computer should host the company file.


Solution 3: Check QuickBooks Services


Make sure that QuickBooks services are running properly on the server.


Steps:

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.

  2. Look for the following services:

    • QuickBooksDBXX (XX is your version, e.g., QuickBooksDB30 for 2020)

    • QBCFMonitorService

  3. Ensure both services are Running and Startup Type is set to Automatic.


Solution 4: Configure Firewall Settings

Firewall issues often block QuickBooks from accessing the server.


Steps:

  1. Go to the Control Panel > Windows Firewall.

  2. Click on Advanced Settings > Inbound Rules > New Rule.

  3. Choose Port and click Next.

  4. Add the necessary QuickBooks ports based on your version.

  5. Allow the connection, name the rule, and click Finish.

Repeat the same steps for Outbound Rules.


Solution 5: Rename the .ND File

Damaged or corrupted .ND files can also trigger the H202 error.


Steps:

  1. Locate the folder where your company file is stored.

  2. Find the file with a .ND extension (e.g., YourCompanyFile.qbw.nd).

  3. Right-click the file and choose Rename.

  4. Add .old at the end (e.g., YourCompanyFile.qbw.nd.old).

  5. Reopen QuickBooks and rescan the file using the QuickBooks Database Server Manager.


Solution 6: Add Server to Windows Hosts File

Manually adding the server name to the hosts file can fix name resolution issues.


Steps:

  1. Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc\.

  2. Right-click on the hosts file and open with Notepad.

  3. Add the server IP address and hostname at the end of the file.

  4. Save the file and restart your computer.


QuickBooks Error PS038 – A Related Concern


While fixing Error H202, you may also encounter QuickBooks Error PS038. This payroll-specific error generally occurs when you're trying to update paychecks or send payroll data but QuickBooks is unable to process it.


Error Message Example: "You’ve retrieved the latest payroll update and validated your Payroll subscription. We strongly recommend that you go online again before XX/XX/XXXX."


Causes of Error PS038:

  • Stuck paychecks in “Online to Send” status.

  • Corrupt company file.

  • Incomplete payroll updates.


Fixes:

  1. Update QuickBooks to the latest version.

  2. Send all pending paychecks from the Send Payroll Data window.

  3. Run Verify and Rebuild Data Utility from the File > Utilities menu.


If both H202 and PS038 persist, get expert assistance at +1-866-408-0544.


Final Thoughts


QuickBooks Error H202 can be frustrating, especially when it disrupts collaboration in a multi-user environment. Fortunately, with the right steps—like using the QuickBooks Tool Hub, verifying hosting settings, and configuring firewalls—you can resolve the issue effectively.


Additionally, if you encounter QuickBooks Error PS038, it’s likely due to stuck payroll data, which also requires timely intervention.

If you’re unsure about any of the steps or need fast, reliable support, call the QuickBooks experts at +1-866-408-0544. We're available to help you get your accounting software running smoothly again.

 
 
 

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