QuickBooks is the most widely-used software for accounting, was created to make financial management easier for business. But, as with all software there are issues that can disrupt the flow of your business. QuickBooks Error H202 could be just one problem that is related to Multi-user Mode connectivity. In this short post, we’ll discuss Error H202 and the causes of it, and offer ways to resolve the issue efficiently.

Understanding QuickBooks Error H202

1. Definition of Error H202

QuickBooks Error Code H202 in QuickBooks is an issue that can occur when you attempt to work using a corporate file when you’re in multi-user mode. QuickBooks can’t establish a connection with the server hosting the file. The error stops users from accessing the data and working alongside others at the same time.

2. Common Scenarios

Error H202 is often associated with message errors like

  • “H202 – You are trying to work with a company file that is located on another computer.”
  • “H202 – Multi-user mode is not set up correctly.”

What are the Causes of QuickBooks Error H202?

1. Incorrect Hosting Configuration

The most common cause to Error H202 is an insufficient configuration of hosting. QuickBooks needs to be configured in a way that allows several users access to the same file for company use.

2. Blocked Communication Ports

Security software and firewalls in the client and server computer may block communications ports, which could prevent QuickBooks from connecting.

3. DNS Issues

Issues with the Domain Name System (DNS) configurations on the computer that hosts the DNS server or on client computers could result in error H202.

4. Damaged QuickBooks Installation

Incorrect or damaged QuickBooks installation could also cause this issue.

What are the Solutions for QuickBooks Error H202?

1. Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor is a tool offered by Intuit (the firm behind QuickBooks) to help diagnose and fix common connectivity issues and file problems for companies. The use of this tool will often fix the error H202.

2. Verify Hosting Settings

  • If you are on the server, launch QuickBooks by going there to “File” > “Utilities.”
  • Make sure you have “Host Multi-User Mode” is set to “Host Multi-User Mode.
  • For the computers that are client-side make sure that “Host Multi-User Mode” is disabled on the client computers.

3. Check Firewall Settings

Make sure that your firewall’s settings aren’t blocking QuickBooks communications. There may be a need for you to establish an outbound or inbound rule to let QuickBooks pass through your firewall.

4. Edit the Hosts File

  • The server’s computer you are able to edit this Windows Hosts file to specify the IP address for the server as well as what is the name for your firm file.
  • The hosts file is typically located in “C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc” (you’ll need administrator privileges to edit it).

5. Use the UNC Path

  • Instead of mapping the network drive, use the Universal Naming Convention (UNC) path to access the company file. For example, use “\ServerName\QuickBooksFolder\CompanyFile.qbw” instead of “Z:\CompanyFile.qbw.”

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error H202 could be annoying, but is usually fixable by following the correct actions. If you can understand the issue as well as identifying the root cause and implementing the correct remedies, you’ll quickly make sure that your multi-user mode is up and running efficiently. If you’re not sure regarding the procedure or why your error continues to persist, you should consider getting help from an expert QuickBooks expert or support from Intuit for help to ensure your accounting is not interrupted.