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QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when QuickBooks is unable to communicate with the server or remote computer hosting the company file. This error is generally seen in multi-user environments where QuickBooks is hosted on a server or networked machine. When you attempt to open a company file stored on another computer, QuickBooks will display the following error message:

“Error H202: QuickBooks is trying to connect to the database server, but the connection failed.”

This error prevents QuickBooks from accessing the company file, causing issues with day-to-day operations. It is typically seen when QuickBooks is running in multi-user mode or when your company file is stored on a network server.

Common Causes of QuickBooks Error H202

There are several reasons why QuickBooks Error H202 may occur. Some of the most common causes include:

1. Incorrect Hosting Configuration:
   QuickBooks Error H202 often arises due to incorrect hosting settings on the server or client computers. If hosting is not properly configured, QuickBooks will be unable to establish a connection to the database server.

2. Firewall or Security Software Blocking the Connection:
   A firewall, antivirus, or security software may be blocking QuickBooks from accessing the server or company file. These programs may mistakenly view QuickBooks as a security threat, preventing communication between the server and client computers.

3. Damaged or Missing QuickBooks Database Server Manager:
   The QuickBooks Database Server Manager allows QuickBooks to communicate with files stored on a server. If this service is not installed correctly, is damaged, or is not running, it may cause Error H202.

4. Incorrect DNS Settings or Network Issues:
   If there are issues with the Domain Name System (DNS) or other network-related issues, such as incorrect IP addresses, QuickBooks may not be able to access the server hosting the company file.

5. Problems with QuickBooks Services:
   If QuickBooks services, such as the QuickBooksDBXX (database server manager) or QBCFMonitorService (QuickBooks Client Services), are not running or have stopped, QuickBooks may not be able to connect to the server, resulting in Error H202.

6. Corrupted or Damaged Company File:
   A corrupted or damaged company file can also cause issues with QuickBooks’ ability to connect to the server. While this is not the primary cause, it can contribute to the appearance of Error H202.

7. Server Not Set Up as the Host:
   If the computer that is supposed to act as the host is not configured correctly to host the company file, other workstations will encounter Error H202 when trying to connect to the file.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error H202

When Error H202 occurs, you may notice the following symptoms:

• The Error H202 message pops up when trying to access the company file.

• QuickBooks fails to open the company file in multi-user mode.

• QuickBooks freezes or stops working when you try to access a networked company file.

• Other users on the network are unable to access the same company file.

How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202

QuickBooks Error H202 can be fixed through several troubleshooting methods. Below are some solutions you can try to resolve this issue and get QuickBooks back to working condition:

Step 1: Check Hosting Configuration

In multi-user environments, QuickBooks needs to be hosted on a server or main computer. If the hosting configuration is incorrect, it can lead to Error H202. Follow these steps to verify and configure hosting:

1. On the server computer, open QuickBooks.

2. Go to File > Utilities and look for the Host Multi-User Access option.

3. If it says Stop Hosting Multi-User Mode, it means hosting is already enabled. If it says Host Multi-User Mode, click on it to enable hosting.

4. On the client computers (the ones trying to access the company file), go to File > Utilities and ensure that Stop Hosting Multi-User Mode is selected.

5. Restart QuickBooks and check if the error persists.

Step 2: Check Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Firewalls and antivirus software can block communication between QuickBooks and the server. Ensure that these programs are not blocking QuickBooks' ports:

1. Disable your firewall and antivirus temporarily.

2. Try opening the company file again.

3. If you can access the company file after disabling security software, add QuickBooks to the exception list or allow list in the firewall and antivirus settings.

4. Re-enable your firewall and antivirus after the test.

Step 3: Install or Repair QuickBooks Database Server Manager

The QuickBooks Database Server Manager is responsible for allowing multi-user setups to communicate with QuickBooks files stored on a server. If this tool is not installed or is damaged, it can cause QuickBooks Error H202. Here’s how to install or repair it:

1. Download and install the QuickBooks Database Server Manager from the QuickBooks website.

2. Follow the installation instructions for your version of QuickBooks.

3. After installing, restart your computer and try opening the company file again.

Step 4: Restart QuickBooks Services

QuickBooks services such as QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService must be running for QuickBooks to function properly. Here’s how to restart them:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.

2. Go to the Services tab.

3. Look for the following QuickBooks services:

   • QuickBooksDBXX (where XX is the version number)

   • QBCFMonitorService

4. If either of these services is not running, right-click and choose Start or Restart the service.

5. After restarting the services, try accessing the company file again.

Step 5: Verify DNS Settings

Ensure that your DNS settings are correctly configured. Incorrect DNS settings can cause QuickBooks to be unable to access the server. Verify the settings by checking the network configuration on both the server and client computers. If you’re unsure about the DNS settings, you can reach out to your IT support for assistance.

Step 6: Use the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool

QuickBooks File Doctor is a tool that can automatically diagnose and fix many types of issues related to multi-user setup, network problems, and company file corruption. To use it:

1. Download the QuickBooks File Doctor from the official QuickBooks website.

2. Run the tool and follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and fix any issues with your QuickBooks installation or company file.

3. Once the tool completes the scan and fixes the errors, try accessing the company file again.

Step 7: Contact QuickBooks Support

If none of the above steps resolve QuickBooks Error H202, you may need to contact QuickBooks Support for further assistance. Their team of experts can help diagnose more complex issues related to networking, hosting, or the company file. You can reach QuickBooks support at +1-(855)-954-6208 for personalized help.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error H202 is a common issue faced by users in multi-user setups where QuickBooks is hosted on a server. It occurs when QuickBooks cannot communicate with the server or access the company file. The causes of this error can range from incorrect hosting settings to network issues, firewall blocks, or issues with QuickBooks services. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, such as verifying hosting configuration, checking firewall settings, repairing QuickBooks Database Server Manager, and using the QuickBooks File Doctor tool, you can resolve the error and get back to using QuickBooks without interruption. If the problem persists, contacting QuickBooks Support at +1-(855)-954-6208 is a good option for further assistance.