QuickBooks is a powerful accounting software used by businesses of all sizes for managing their financial transactions. However, like any software, it can encounter errors that disrupt its functionality. One common issue users face is QuickBooks Error H505. This error typically occurs when users try to switch to multi-user mode, and it indicates a problem with the multi-user hosting setup. This detailed guide will walk you through the steps to troubleshoot and resolve QuickBooks Error H505.

Understanding QuickBooks Error H505

Error H505 is part of a series of H-series errors that occur when there are issues with the multi-user hosting setup on QuickBooks. Specifically, this error indicates that the computer you are trying to access (the server) is not available, or the QuickBooks software cannot communicate with it. Common causes include:

• Incorrect hosting configuration settings.
• The server computer’s firewall blocking communication.
• Damaged or corrupted. ND files.
• Issues with DNS settings.

QuickBooks Error H505 Causes

This QuickBooks Error H505 will be resolved by understanding the causes that have led to this error. The following causes will assist in resolving this error:

• If your hosting settings do not match the QuickBooks server computer where your data is stored: When your hosting information is incorrect. When your QuickBooks hosting settings connect to a user account to fetch data, Error H505 occurs.
• A multi-user mode error occurs when the firewall prevents QuickBooks from sending and receiving requests from the database server to access the company files.
• If network data files (.ND) are unprotected or damaged, then QuickBooks user account information cannot be accessed.
• The Domain Name System is not set properly: If the DNS path is incorrectly entered, connectivity is lost.
• The QuickBooks services QBDBMgrN and QuickBooksDBXX are not responding.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

1. Check Hosting Settings on Workstations

First, ensure that hosting is only enabled on the server computer and not on any of the workstations.

• Open QuickBooks on each workstation.
• Go to File > Utilities.
• If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, this workstation is currently hosting. Click on it to stop hosting.
• Repeat these steps on all workstations to ensure only the server hosts multi-user access.

2. Verify QuickBooks Services on the Server

Ensure that the necessary QuickBooks services are running on the server computer.

• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
• Type services.msc and press Enter.
• In the Services window, locate QuickBooksDBXX (XX represents the version number) and QBCFMonitorService.
• Ensure both services are set to Automatic and are running. If not, right-click on each service and select Start.

3. Configure Firewall Settings

The firewall on your server computer might be blocking QuickBooks from accessing the network. Configure your firewall settings to allow QuickBooks to communicate.

• Open the Control Panel and go to System and Security.
• Click on Windows Defender Firewall.
• Select Advanced settings.
• Right-click on Inbound Rules, then select New Rule.
• Select Port and click Next.
• Ensure TCP is selected, and enter the following ports: QuickBooks Desktop 2018-2021: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382.
• Click Next, allow the connection, and name the rule (e.g., QuickBooks Ports).
• Repeat these steps for Outbound Rules.

Related

4. Create and Share a New Folder for the Company File

Sometimes, the error can be resolved by creating a new folder for the company file and sharing it.

• On your server computer, create a new folder.
• Share this folder and set Windows access permissions to share company files.
• Copy the .qbw file to the new folder.
• Open QuickBooks and try to access the company file from the new location.

5. Edit the Windows Hosts File

Editing the Windows hosts file can sometimes resolve the communication issues between workstations and the server.

• Go to the server computer and open the Run dialog box (Windows + R).
• Type cmd and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
• Type ipconfig /all and press Enter. Note down the Host Name and IP Address.
• Go to the workstations and repeat the steps to open the Command Prompt and get the server’s IP address and Host Name.
• Open the Run dialog box again, type C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\hosts, and press Enter.
• Open the hosts file with Notepad and add the server’s IP address and Host Name at the end of the file.
• Save and close the file.

6. Use the QuickBooks File Doctor Tool

The QuickBooks File Doctor Tool can automatically diagnose and fix many issues, including Error H505.

• Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
• Open the Tool Hub and select Company File Issues.
• Click Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
• Select your company file from the drop-down list and click Check your file.
• Enter your QuickBooks admin password and click Continue.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error H505 can be disruptive, especially when you need to access your company file in multi-user mode. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve this error, ensuring smooth and efficient operation of your QuickBooks software. If these steps do not resolve the issue, it may be necessary to contact QuickBooks Support for further assistance. With proper configuration and maintenance, you can minimize the occurrence of such errors and keep your financial management processes running smoothly.