QuickBooks Error H202 typically occurs when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to communicate with the company file. This error often arises when users try to access a company file located on another computer, and QuickBooks is unable to establish a connection to the server. Here are some steps to fix Error H202:
- Use QuickBooks File Doctor: QuickBooks File Doctor is a tool provided by Intuit to troubleshoot common QuickBooks issues, including H202 errors. You can download and run this tool to automatically diagnose and resolve network issues that might be causing the H202 error.
- Check Hosting Settings: Ensure that QuickBooks hosting settings are properly configured on all computers accessing the company file. Hosting should be turned off on workstations and turned on only on the computer hosting the company file. To do this:
- Open QuickBooks on the computer hosting the company file.
- Go to the File menu, then Utilities, and check if the option “Host Multi-User Access” is available. If it’s available, it means hosting is already turned on.
- If the option isn’t available, it means hosting is already turned off.
- On other workstations, hosting should be turned off. Go to File, then Utilities, and select “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access” if it’s available.
- Check Firewall and Security Software: Firewalls or security software may block QuickBooks from accessing the necessary ports for communication. Ensure that QuickBooks and its associated processes are allowed through the firewall. You may need to consult your IT department or the documentation for your firewall/security software for instructions on how to do this.
- Verify Hosting Configuration Settings: Verify that the hosting configuration settings are correct. To do this:
- Open QuickBooks and go to the File menu.
- Select Utilities, and then select “Host Multi-User Access” on the computer hosting the company file.
- On other workstations, go to the same menu but ensure that “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access” is selected.
- Ping the Server: Ensure that all computers can communicate with the server hosting the company file. You can do this by opening the Command Prompt and using the “ping” command followed by the IP address or hostname of the server. If the ping is successful, it indicates that the network connection is working properly.
- Restart QuickBooks Database Server Manager: Restart the QuickBooks Database Server Manager on the server hosting the company file. You can do this by going to the Windows Start menu, searching for “QuickBooks Database Server Manager,” and selecting it. Then, click on “Scan Folders” to ensure that the company file is added to the list. If not, you can add it manually.
- Check Network Connectivity: Ensure that all computers are connected to the same network and can access shared folders where the company file is located.
- Consult QuickBooks Support: If the above steps do not resolve the issue, it’s recommended to contact QuickBooks Support for further assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting steps tailored to your specific setup.
By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve QuickBooks Error H202.