# How to Fix QuickBooks Error H202: A Step-by-Step Guide

QuickBooks Error H202 is a common issue that occurs when QuickBooks Desktop is unable to establish a connection with the company file on another computer. This error is part of the H-series errors related to hosting issues. Follow these steps to resolve
QuickBooks Error H202:

## 1. **Use the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool:**
- Download and run the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool from the official Intuit website.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to diagnose and repair network-related issues.
- Restart your computer after the tool completes the repair.

## 2. **Check Hosting Settings:**
- Ensure that only the server computer is set to host the company file.
- Open QuickBooks on the server, go to "File," select "Utilities," and check if "Host Multi-User Access" is selected.

## 3. **Verify QuickBooks Services:**
- Open the "Run" dialog (press `Windows + R`), type "services.msc," and press Enter.
- Locate the QuickBooksDB and QuickBooksDBXX services.
- Ensure that both services are running and set to Automatic.

## 4. **Adjust Firewall and Security Settings:**
- Configure firewall settings to allow QuickBooks through. Add exceptions for QuickBooks ports (e.g., 8019, 56726, 55368-55372).
- Consult your security software documentation to ensure QuickBooks is not being blocked.

## 5. **Check Hosts File:**
- Open the "Run" dialog (press `Windows + R`), type "C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc" and press Enter.
- Open the "hosts" file using Notepad.
- Add the server's IP address and name at the end of the file and save.

## 6. **Recreate Network Data (.ND) Files:**
- Navigate to the folder containing your company file and locate the corresponding .ND file.
- Right-click on the .ND file and select "Rename" (add .old at the end).
- Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager and rescan the folder.

## 7. **Use QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool:**
- Download and run the QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool to identify and fix network-related issues.

## 8. **Restart Server and Workstations:**
- Restart the server hosting the company file and all workstations accessing QuickBooks.

## 9. **Verify Hosting Mode:**
- On each workstation, open QuickBooks and go to "File." Check that "Stop Hosting Multi-User Access" is displayed. If not, select it.

## 10. **Contact QuickBooks Support:**
- If the issue persists, it's advisable to contact QuickBooks Support for further assistance. Provide them with details about the error and the steps you've taken.

By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix QuickBooks Error H202, restoring normal multi-user access to your company file. Always ensure you have a backup of your company file before making significant changes to avoid data loss.

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