Resolve QuickBooks Error H202 in Multi-User and How to Fix it?
- henrymaartin1990
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
When you try to switch to multi-user mode in QuickBooks Desktop and see an error message stating that the connection to the company file is blocked, you are likely facing QuickBooks Error H202. This common issue can prevent multiple users from accessing the company file located on another system (server) and disrupt your business operations.
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the causes, symptoms, and step-by-step methods to fix QuickBooks Error H202. By following the guide below, you can restore seamless connectivity and minimize workflow interruptions.
QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when the multi-user connection to the server is blocked; resolve it with these proven solutions or call +1-866-500-0076.

What is QuickBooks Error H202?
QuickBooks Error H202 typically appears when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to connect to the server while trying to access the company file in multi-user mode. It’s part of the H-series errors that are all related to networking and hosting problems.
Why Does QuickBooks Error H202 Occur?
Understanding the reasons behind the error helps in applying the right fix. Here are the most common causes:
Incorrect hosting configuration on workstations
Firewall or security software blocking QuickBooks services
Damaged or incorrect DNS settings
Issues with QuickBooks Database Server Manager
Unable to reach the IP address of the server
Symptoms of QuickBooks Error H202
Be alert if you observe any of the following signs:
QuickBooks freezes or slows down
You get the H202 error while switching to multi-user mode
QuickBooks cannot communicate with the server
Inability to open the company file located on another computer
You receive a pop-up saying: “Error code H202: This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”
Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error H202
Here’s how to fix the issue using proven and effective troubleshooting steps:
Step 1: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub
Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
Open the tool and go to the Network Issues tab.
Select QuickBooks Database Server Manager and let it scan your system.
Restart your computer after the scan completes.
Step 2: Check Hosting Settings
Open QuickBooks on all computers.
Navigate to File > Utilities.
On the server computer, only this should display: “Host Multi-User Access.”
If you see “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access”, select it and disable hosting.
Step 3: Configure Firewall Settings
Go to Control Panel > Windows Firewall.
Select Advanced Settings > Inbound Rules.
Add new rules for the following ports:
QuickBooks 2022: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382
QuickBooks 2021 and earlier may have different ports.
Repeat the same for Outbound Rules.
Step 4: Verify QuickBooks Services
Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
Locate and start or restart the following services:
QuickBooksDBXX
QBCFMonitorService
Make sure the startup type is set to Automatic.
Step 5: Ping the Server from Workstations
Note down the server computer name.
Open Command Prompt on the workstation.
Type ping [ServerName] and press Enter.
If there’s no response, you have a network connectivity issue.
Step 6: Create a New Folder for the Company File
On the server, create a new shared folder.
Set Windows access permissions to allow full control for all users.
Copy the company file (.QBW) to this folder.
Try opening the file from the workstation in multi-user mode.
Read Also: QuickBooks Error 6123.
Preventing QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future
To avoid encountering this error repeatedly:
Regularly update QuickBooks Desktop
Always configure hosting settings properly
Ensure server system is always online
Maintain a stable network connection
Schedule weekly scans using QuickBooks Database Server Manager
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error H202 is a common multi-user connectivity error that can impact business productivity. By identifying the root causes and applying the right fixes such as configuring firewall settings, adjusting hosting options, or using the QuickBooks Tool Hub, you can swiftly resolve the issue and restore full functionality.
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