Is QuickBooks Giving You Error H202? Here’s the Fix!

QuickBooks is a powerful accounting tool, but even the best software runs into issues. One common problem users face is QuickBooks Error H202, which can disrupt your workflow, especially when you're trying to access a company file in multi-user mode. In some cases, this may even be accompanied by QuickBooks Error PS038, making the situation more complex.

If you're experiencing this frustrating error, don’t worry. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about QuickBooks Error H202—what causes it, how to fix it, and how to prevent it in the future. And if you need immediate assistance, you can always call our certified QuickBooks experts at +1-866-408-0544.

What is QuickBooks Error H202?

QuickBooks Error H202 typically occurs when the multi-user mode fails to connect to the company file located on another system (the server). This error prevents you from opening a file stored on a different computer and appears with the following message:

“Error Code H202: This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”

This error usually indicates a communication breakdown between your workstation and the server hosting the company file.

Causes of QuickBooks Error H202

Understanding the root causes of Error H202 helps in applying the right fix. Common reasons include:

• Incorrect Hosting Configuration Settings

• Blocked Communication by Windows Firewall

• QuickBooks Database Server Manager Not Running

• Damaged or Corrupted .ND (Network Data) File

• Issues with DNS Server

• QuickBooks Services Not Running on Server

Step-by-Step Fixes for QuickBooks Error H202

Here’s how you can fix QuickBooks Error H202 and get your software running smoothly again:

1. Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub

Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub, which helps resolve common issues.

Steps:

1. Download the Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.

2. Install it by following on-screen prompts.

3. Open Tool Hub and click on "Network Issues".

4. Select "QuickBooks Database Server Manager".

5. Let it scan your company file folder and restart the Database Server Manager.

Tool Hub can also help identify other issues like QuickBooks Error PS038.

2. Verify Hosting Settings

On each workstation:

1. Open QuickBooks and press F2 to open the Product Information window.

2. In the bottom-left, check that "Hosting" is turned off.

3. On the server, it should be on (Only the server should host the file).

3. Ping the Server from the Workstation

Testing network connectivity helps confirm if the workstation can reach the server.

1. Press Windows + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

2. In the Command Prompt, type:
   ping [ServerName]
   (Replace [ServerName] with your actual server name)

3. If the reply times out or packet loss occurs, there’s a network issue that needs fixing.

4. Check Windows Firewall Settings

Make sure QuickBooks is allowed through the firewall.

1. Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.

2. Click Allow an app through Windows Firewall.

3. Ensure QuickBooks and QBDBMgrN.exe are checked for private and public networks.

You can also manually add ports for QuickBooks:

• QuickBooks 2024: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382
  (Adjust according to your version.)

5. Rename the .ND File

The Network Data file may be corrupted.

1. Open the folder where your company file is located.

2. Look for a file with the same name as your company file but with a .ND extension.

3. Rename it to something like:
   CompanyFileName.qbw.nd.old

4. Restart QuickBooks and try opening the file again.

Bonus Tip: Be Aware of QuickBooks Error PS038

While dealing with QuickBooks Error H202, some users may also encounter QuickBooks Error PS038. This error usually arises during payroll updates and is related to stuck paychecks that haven't been sent to Intuit.

How to Identify Error PS038:

• You see the message:
  “You’ve retrieved the latest payroll update and validated your Payroll subscription. We strongly recommend that you go online again before MM/DD/YYYY.”

• A paycheck is stuck “online to send.”

Fix Steps for PS038:

1. Run Verify and Rebuild Data Utility from the File menu.

2. Identify stuck paychecks using the Find Feature.

3. Contact payroll support if stuck checks cannot be deleted or resent.

You can also resolve this using QuickBooks Tool Hub under the Program Problems section.

Need Help? Call QuickBooks Experts at +1-866-408-0544

If none of these solutions resolve the issue or if you're dealing with both QuickBooks Error H202 and QuickBooks Error PS038, don’t waste time guessing. Contact our certified QuickBooks experts at +1-866-408-0544 for prompt assistance. We’re available 24/7 to help you get back to business.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error H202 in the Future

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some preventive steps:

• Always use the latest version of QuickBooks.

• Regularly update Windows and security settings.

• Set up reliable hosting settings on the server.

• Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager for all multi-user setups.

• Perform periodic network and file verifications.

• Use QuickBooks Tool Hub monthly to run system diagnostics.

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Error H202 is annoying, but it's fixable with the right steps. Whether you're running a small business or managing multiple users in QuickBooks, this guide helps you fix the issue efficiently. And if you’re also facing QuickBooks Error PS038, the QuickBooks Tool Hub and proper payroll diagnostics will help too.

Still stuck? Don’t let errors slow you down. Call our 24/7 QuickBooks support team at +1-866-408-0544 for fast, expert assistance.