you’re running a business and rely on QuickBooks for your accounting, encountering errors like H202 or H505 can be frustrating. These errors typically occur in multi-user mode when QuickBooks fails to connect to the company file located on another computer. But don’t worry — resolving these issues is easier than it seems. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about QuickBooks Error H202 and H505, including causes, fixes, and preventive tips.
What Are QuickBooks Errors H202 and H505?
QuickBooks Error H202 and H505 are part of the H-series errors that occur in multi-user environments. They indicate that your system is having trouble connecting to the company file on a networked server.
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H202: Occurs when the workstation is unable to access the company file hosted on another computer.
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H505: Appears when a system that is not set up to be the host tries to access the file.
These errors prevent users from opening the company file, effectively bringing collaborative accounting work to a halt.
Common Causes of H202/H505 Errors
Here are the typical reasons you might encounter these errors:
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The QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running on the server.
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Incorrect hosting configuration on workstations or the server.
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Blocked ports by the system firewall or antivirus software.
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Damaged .ND (Network Data) files, which are essential for multi-user access.
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DNS issues or incorrect IP address settings.
Understanding the root cause helps in applying the correct fix without unnecessary steps.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202 and H505
Below are several methods to resolve these errors. It’s recommended to follow them in order:
1. Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub
QuickBooks Tool Hub is an all-in-one troubleshooting solution provided by Intuit.
Steps:
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Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit’s official website.
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Launch the Tool Hub and select Network Issues.
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Click on QuickBooks Database Server Manager and run the scan.
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Follow the prompts to repair firewall settings and network setup.
2. Check Hosting Settings
Only the server should have hosting enabled.
On each workstation:
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Open QuickBooks.
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Go to File > Utilities.
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If you see “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access,” select it. If it says “Host Multi-User Access,” leave it as is.
3. Restart QuickBooks Services
Ensure necessary QuickBooks services are running.
Steps:
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Press
Windows + R, typeservices.msc, and hit Enter. -
Locate and restart the following services:
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QuickBooksDBXX
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QBCFMonitorService
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Set both services to Automatic.
4. Configure Firewall and Antivirus
Your firewall might be blocking QuickBooks.
Steps:
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Open your firewall settings.
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Add exceptions for:
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QBDBMgrN.exe -
QBCFMonitorService.exe
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Ensure the following ports are open:
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QuickBooks 2024: 8019, 56728-56730
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Adjust for your version if needed.
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5. Create a New .ND File
Sometimes the network data file gets corrupted.
Steps:
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Go to the folder where your company file is stored.
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Find the
.NDfile associated with your company (e.g.,CompanyFile.qbw.nd). -
Delete the
.NDfile. -
Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager and re-scan the folder.
6. Manually Map the Network Drive
If DNS issues persist, mapping the network drive can help.
Steps:
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Go to This PC > Map Network Drive.
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Assign a drive letter and browse to the folder where your QuickBooks file is stored.
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Open the file from this mapped drive in QuickBooks.
Preventing H-Series Errors in the Future
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Always keep QuickBooks and Windows updated.
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Regularly run the Database Server Manager to maintain connectivity.
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Avoid installing third-party firewalls that might block QuickBooks.
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Use a dedicated server for hosting your company file if possible.
When to Contact QuickBooks Support
If you’ve tried all of the above and still experience issues, it may be time to consult QuickBooks Support. Complex networking issues or server-specific errors might need a technician’s insight.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks Error H202 and H505 may seem intimidating at first, but with a little patience and the right steps, you can quickly restore full access to your company file. Whether it’s a firewall setting or a server misconfiguration, resolving these errors will get your accounting operations back on track without major downtime.
Keep this guide bookmarked, and you’ll never be caught off-guard by H-series errors again!