What Role Does QuickBooks Database Server Manager Play in Resolving H202 Error?

Teamquickbooks
5 min readMay 22, 2024

--

QuickBooks is a highly efficient accounting software that simplifies managing finances for businesses. However, users often encounter errors that can disrupt their workflow. One common error in QuickBooks, especially in multi-user mode, is the H202 error. This error indicates that QuickBooks is unable to communicate with the company file located on another computer (server) and usually occurs when the server hosting the QuickBooks company file is blocked or unable to connect.

The QuickBooks File Doctor tool can be a valuable asset in resolving this issue. This comprehensive guide will delve into the causes of the QuickBooks H202 error, and how to use QuickBooks File Doctor to fix it, along with addressing some frequently asked questions.

To help you fix this problem, we have some resources in this article. But if you need expert help, you can contact us anytime. We have a team of QuickBooks experts who are available 24/7 to assist you. Just call our support line at +1–888–858–6199.

Understanding QuickBooks H202 Error

The QuickBooks H202 error generally arises when QuickBooks Desktop tries to establish a connection to the company file but fails due to network issues. This error often appears with the following message: “Error code: H202. This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”

Causes of QuickBooks H202 Error

Several factors can contribute to the QuickBooks H202 error, including:

  1. Network Issues: Problems with network configuration can prevent QuickBooks from accessing the server where the company file is stored.
  2. Firewall Settings: Incorrect firewall settings can block communication between QuickBooks and the server.
  3. DNS Issues: Incorrect DNS settings can cause QuickBooks to fail in locating the server.
  4. Host Configuration: The hosting configuration settings in QuickBooks might be incorrect.
  5. QuickBooks Database Server Manager: Issues with the QuickBooks Database Server Manager can prevent proper communication.
  6. Service Inaccessibility: QuickBooks services such as QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitor may not be running on the server.

Using QuickBooks File Doctor to Resolve H202 Error

QuickBooks File Doctor is a diagnostic tool provided by Intuit to fix various network and company file issues, including the H202 error. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using QuickBooks File Doctor to resolve the H202 error:

Download and Install QuickBooks File Doctor

  1. Download: Visit the Intuit website and download the QuickBooks Tool Hub, which includes QuickBooks File Doctor.
  2. Install: Open the downloaded file and follow the on-screen instructions to install QuickBooks Tool Hub on your computer.

Launch QuickBooks File Doctor

  1. Open Tool Hub: After installation, open the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Access File Doctor: Click on the “Company File Issues” tab and select “Run QuickBooks File Doctor.” The tool may take a few minutes to open.

Run QuickBooks File Doctor

  1. Select Company File: In QuickBooks File Doctor, choose the company file you are experiencing issues with. If the file is not listed, click “Browse” and locate the file.
  2. Choose Check File Option: Select the “Check your file” option and click “Continue.”
  3. Enter Credentials: Enter your QuickBooks Admin password when prompted and click “Next.”
  4. Start Scan: QuickBooks File Doctor will begin scanning the company file and network for issues. This process may take some time depending on the size of your company file.

Review Results

  1. Fix Detected Issues: Once the scan is complete, QuickBooks File Doctor will display the issues it has detected and automatically fix them if possible.
  2. Manual Instructions: If some issues require manual intervention, QuickBooks File Doctor will provide instructions on what needs to be done.

Verify the Fix

  1. Restart QuickBooks: Close QuickBooks File Doctor and reopen QuickBooks Desktop.
  2. Open Company File: Try to open the company file again to check if the H202 error has been resolved.

Additional Steps to Resolve QuickBooks H202 Error

If QuickBooks File Doctor does not resolve the H202 error, you may need to perform additional troubleshooting steps:

Check QuickBooks Services

  1. Open Services: On the server, press Windows + R, type “services. MSc” and press Enter.
  2. Locate Services: Find the QuickBooks (where XX is your version) and QBCFMonitorService.
  3. Start Services: Ensure both services are set to “Automatic” and are running. If not, right-click and select “Start.”

Configure Firewall Settings

  1. Open Firewall Settings: Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Allow QuickBooks Ports: Ensure the ports used by QuickBooks (e.g., 8019, 56728, 55378–55382) are allowed through the firewall.
  3. Add Programs: Add QuickBooks to the list of allowed programs and ensure QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService are allowed.

Verify Hosting Settings

  1. Open QuickBooks: On the server, open QuickBooks Desktop.
  2. Verify Hosting: Go to File > Utilities. Ensure that “Host Multi-User Access” is enabled. If it’s already enabled, disable and re-enable it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about QuickBooks H202 Error and QuickBooks File Doctor

Q: What is the QuickBooks H202 error?

A: The QuickBooks H202 error occurs when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to establish a connection to the company file located on another computer (server). This usually happens in a multi-user environment due to network or configuration issues.

Q: How does QuickBooks File Doctor help in resolving the H202 error?

A: QuickBooks File Doctor diagnoses and fixes common issues related to company files and network problems. By scanning the network and company file, it can identify and resolve issues that cause the H202 error.

Q: Is it safe to use QuickBooks File Doctor?

A: Yes, QuickBooks File Doctor is a tool provided by Intuit specifically designed to diagnose and fix issues with QuickBooks. It is safe to use and can help resolve many common errors.

Q: Can QuickBooks File Doctor fix all instances of the H202 error?

A: While QuickBooks File Doctor can resolve many issues causing the H202 error, it may not fix all instances. Some problems may require additional manual troubleshooting or professional support.

Q: Do I need administrative rights to run QuickBooks File Doctor?

A: Yes, administrative rights are required to run QuickBooks File Doctor as it needs access to the company file and network settings to diagnose and fix issues.

Q: What should I do if QuickBooks File Doctor doesn’t fix the H202 error?

A: If QuickBooks File Doctor doesn’t resolve the H202 error, you should check firewall settings, verify QuickBooks services are running, ensure proper network configuration, and verify hosting settings. If the issue persists, consider reaching out to QuickBooks support.

Q: Can firewall settings cause the H202 error?

A: Yes, incorrect firewall settings can block communication between QuickBooks and the server, leading to the H202 error. Ensuring that the necessary QuickBooks ports are allowed through the firewall can help resolve the issue.

Q: How can I check if QuickBooks services are running?

A: Open the Services app on your server and check if QuickBooks and QBCFMonitorService are running and set to “Automatic.” If they are not running, start them manually.

Conclusion

The QuickBooks H202 error can be a significant hindrance in a multi-user environment, preventing users from accessing their company file. However, with the help of QuickBooks File Doctor, many of the issues causing this error can be diagnosed and resolved. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can effectively troubleshoot and fix the H202 error, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted access to your QuickBooks company file.

--

--

Teamquickbooks

QB Tool Hub is a comprehensive, all-in-one software solution that can help you solve all your QuickBooks troubleshooting needs. Download it Call 1-888-858-6199.