QuickBooks is one of the most popular accounting software in the world, but like any other software, it’s not immune to errors. One of the errors users may encounter is QuickBooks Error H202. This error typically occurs when a user is trying to access a QuickBooks company file located on another computer, and their copy of QuickBooks is unable to reach the server hosting the file. This article will explore the reasons behind this error, the signs to look out for, and troubleshooting methods to resolve the issue.
Reasons for QuickBooks Error Code H202
There are several reasons why users may encounter QuickBooks Error H202. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Incorrect hosting configuration settings – If the hosting configuration settings in QuickBooks are incorrect, it can cause H202 errors.
- Firewall settings – In some cases, the Windows firewall or other third-party firewalls may block QuickBooks from accessing the server hosting the company file.
- Damaged or incorrect .ND file – The .ND file is responsible for allowing QuickBooks to access the company file. If the file is damaged or incorrect, it can cause the H202 error.
- Hosting conflicts – If more than one computer is trying to host the company file, it can cause conflicts and lead to H202 errors.
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Signs of QuickBooks Error Message H202
The signs of QuickBooks Error H202 are straightforward. When a user encounters this error, they may see the following message on their screen: “Error H202 – QuickBooks is unable to connect to the company file.” This error may prevent users from accessing their company files and performing any tasks in QuickBooks.
Troubleshooting Methods for QuickBooks Desktop Error H202
Method 1: Check the Network Connectivity
The first method to resolve QuickBooks Error H202 is to ensure that the network connectivity is stable. Here are the steps to follow:
- Open the command prompt by pressing the Windows + R keys.
- Type “cmd” in the dialog box and press enter.
- Once the command prompt opens, type “ipconfig/all” and press enter.
- Look for the IP address and make sure it matches the IP address of the server hosting the company file.
- Ping the server hosting the company file to test the network connectivity.
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Method 2: Edit the Hosts File
The second method involves editing the hosts file to add the server’s IP address and hostname. Here are the steps to follow:
- Press the Windows + R keys and type “notepad” in the dialog box.
- Open the hosts file located in C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc.
- Add the IP address and hostname of the server hosting the company file.
- Save the file and close notepad.
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Method 3: Restart the QuickBooks Services
The third method involves restarting the QuickBooks services on the server hosting the company file. Here are the steps to follow:
- Press the Windows + R keys and type “services.msc” in the dialog box.
- Find the QuickBooksDBXX service, where XX represents the version of QuickBooks you’re using.
- Right-click on the service and select “restart.”
- Repeat this process for the QBCFMonitorService.
Method 4: Create a New Folder for the Company File
The fourth method involves creating a new folder for the company file and then copying the file to the new folder. Here are the steps to follow:
- Create a new folder on the server hosting the company file.
- Copy the company file to the new folder.
- Open QuickBooks and select “Open or Restore a Company.”
- Navigate to the new folder and open the company file.
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Method 5: Configure Firewall and Security Software
Sometimes, the firewall and security software installed on your computer can also cause QuickBooks Error H202. To resolve this issue, you need to configure the firewall and security settings as follows:
- Open the Windows Firewall settings by clicking on the Start menu and searching for “Windows Firewall”.
- Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall” on the left side of the screen.
- Click on “Change settings” and then click on “Yes” if prompted to give permission.
- Scroll down to QuickBooks and make sure that both the private and public boxes are checked. If not, click on the boxes to check them.
- Click on “OK” to save the changes.
- If you have any third-party firewall or antivirus software installed on your computer, you need to configure it to allow QuickBooks to communicate through the network. Check the documentation for your firewall or antivirus software for instructions on how to do this.
- Once you have configured the firewall and security settings, restart QuickBooks and check if the error has been resolved.
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error H202 can be frustrating, but it can be resolved by following the troubleshooting methods outlined above. If you are still experiencing issues with QuickBooks, it may be best to seek assistance from a QuickBooks Data Recovery Services Expert. You can reach out to us at +1-888-704-1357 for immediate support and assistance with QuickBooks.