# Fix QuickBooks Error H202: Unable to Enter Multi-User Mode

When switching to multi-user mode, QuickBooks error H202 or H505 may appear.

This suggests that your workstation is unable to connect to the host computer (server) because of something like the Windows firewall, folder permissions, or antivirus software.


**The error message that may appear on your screen is as follows:**

“This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”

**(or)**

“Problem with multi-user hosting setup. QuickBooks could not open the file in multi-user mode. (H202)”


When a user attempts to set up hosting for QuickBooks, the error typically occurs. This tutorial will walk you through the reasons behind QuickBooks error code H202 and show you how to resolve it step-by-step. Okay, let's get started!

## Causes of the H202 QuickBooks Error Code When Changing to Multi-User Mode
You need to know the cause of a QB error or any software error, for that matter—before you can fix it. To troubleshoot an issue and eliminate it from its source, this is crucial.

When switching to multi-user mode, you might encounter [QuickBooks error code H202](https://asquarecloudhosting.com/quickbooks-error-code-h202/) for the following common reasons.

* Incoming and outgoing communication on the server computer may be blocked by Windows or an antivirus firewall
* A DNS server conflict could be the cause
* The IP address of the computer or server that houses the company file is not accessible to QuickBooks
* The hosting configuration settings may be off
* The company file may be hosted on multiple computers connected to the network
* The host computer isn't running either of the crucial services, QuickBooksDBXX or QBCFMonitorService, or both
* The network data file (.ND) may be damaged or corrupt

Let's examine how to resolve QuickBooks Desktop error H202 now that we know what causes it.

## Fixing QuickBooks Error H202: Unable to Enter Multi-User Mode

In this section, we'll show you how to troubleshoot QuickBooks error code H202 when you switch to multi-user mode.

This will entail debugging a number of multi-user environment components, including the Windows Firewall, antivirus software, hosting setup, folder permissions, and more.

Consequently, read over these guidelines and adhere to them in the prescribed order.

### Method 1: Verify the Server and Workstation Hosting Configurations

When using multi-user mode, the company file and server must be hosted on a single computer. You designate this computer as the host computer.

The remaining PCs are workstations, and the company file shouldn't be stored on them. Here, we have two things to check.

First, we must make sure that, aside from the host computer, all workstations have hosting disabled.

Following that, we will verify that the host computer has hosting enabled.

#### Disable Workstation Hosting

Proceed to a workstation and do the following.

* On the workstation that displays error codes such as H101, H303, or H505, launch QuickBooks Desktop
* Avoid logging into the business file. Select File, then Utilities
* The options to Host Multi-User Access and Stop Hosting Multi-User Access may now appear
* Avoid clicking on the Host Multi-User Access option if it appears. This indicates that the workstation is not the source of the issue and that hosting is not enabled on this workstation. You are free to proceed to the following workstation
* On the other hand, click the Stop Hosting Multi-User Access option. The workstation will no longer host as a result
* Repeat the procedures above on each workstation. Proceed to the following step after finishing

#### Turn The Server Computer's Hosting On

* Verify that hosting is enabled on the server computer where QuickBooks needs to be hosted
* On the host computer (server), launch QuickBooks
* Select File, then Utilities
* The options to Host Multi-User Access and Stop Hosting Multi-User Access may now appear
* Avoid clicking the Stop Hosting Multi-User Access option if it appears. This indicates that this computer already has hosting enabled
* Select Host Multi-User Access if it is available. This will start to host on the server computer

Return to the workstation where you want to use multi-user access to the company file. Open QuickBooks there, then select multi-user mode.

## Conclusion
This explains why you get QuickBooks error H202 whenever you attempt to switch to multi-user mode.

When we troubleshooted a particular aspect of multi-user mode, we saw a variety of solutions. Resolving a deeply ingrained error such as H202 requires thorough troubleshooting.

Follow the instructions carefully, and consult a QB specialist if you have trouble troubleshooting it independently or if the error still occurs. Now dial **[phone]** to speak with a QB specialist!

**Also read about**:-[ How To Fix QuickBooks Error 400???](https://hackmd.io/@alastormoody/r16T7t_2yg)

## FAQs on QuickBooks Error H202
#### What is QuickBooks Error H202 and why does it occur?
* QuickBooks Error H202 occurs when the software is unable to establish a connection to the company file in multi-user mode. This typically happens due to incorrect hosting settings, firewall restrictions, or issues with the QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
#### How can I fix QuickBooks Error H202?
* To resolve QuickBooks Error H202, ensure that hosting is enabled only on the server and not on workstations. Use the QuickBooks Database Server Manager to scan the company file folder and configure firewall settings to allow QuickBooks communication. Restarting the QuickBooks services can also help in resolving the issue.
#### Does firewall configuration affect QuickBooks Error H202?
* Yes, improper firewall settings can block QuickBooks from accessing the network, causing Error H202. Configuring the firewall to allow QuickBooks processes and adding exceptions for QuickBooks Database Server Manager can help in fixing this issue.
#### Can restarting the QuickBooks Database Server Manager resolve Error H202?
* Yes, restarting the QuickBooks Database Server Manager can refresh the connection and resolve network-related issues. Open the "Run" dialog, type "services.msc," locate "QuickBooksDBXX" (XX represents the version), restart the service, and try accessing the company file again.
#### Why does Error H202 prevent QuickBooks from switching to multi-user mode?
* QuickBooks Error H202 occurs in multi-user mode when the software cannot communicate with the server hosting the company file. This is due to blocked network ports, incorrect DNS settings, or an inactive QuickBooks Database Server Manager. Fixing these network issues restores multi-user access.
#### Is there a tool to fix QuickBooks Error H202 automatically?
* Yes, you can use the QuickBooks File Doctor tool to automatically diagnose and fix network-related issues causing Error H202. Download and run the tool, select the affected company file, and allow it to scan and repair the problem for seamless multi-user mode operation.