Is QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Not Working on your system when you're trying to access the company file from another workstation? You’re not alone. This is a common yet frustrating issue for small and mid-sized businesses using QuickBooks Desktop.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to fix QuickBooks Multi-User Mode errors—primarily caused by firewall restrictions or incorrect folder permissions—and get your team back on track quickly.
Why QuickBooks Multi-User Mode is Not Working
QuickBooks’ Multi-User Mode allows multiple users to access the same company file simultaneously. However, when it's not working, you might receive messages like:
Error H202, H505, or H303
“Can’t communicate with the server”
“QuickBooks Database Server Manager is not running”
The core issue usually lies in:
Windows firewall settings
Improper network configuration
Incorrect folder permissions
QuickBooksDBXX or QBCFMonitorService not running
Let’s tackle these one by one.
Step-by-Step Fix: Firewall & Permissions Issues
Step 1: Check Hosting Settings
Make sure only the server (host) computer has hosting turned ON, and other workstations have it OFF.
On each workstation:
Open QuickBooks
Go to File > Utilities
If you see “Host Multi-User Access” – leave it.
If you see “Stop Hosting Multi-User Access” – click it.
Step 2: Configure Firewall Settings
A restrictive firewall can block communication between workstations and the server.
Manual Firewall Configuration
Open the necessary TCP ports for QuickBooks:
QuickBooks Desktop 2025: TCP 8019, 56728, 55378–55382
Create Inbound and Outbound Rules:
Go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Advanced Settings
Click Inbound Rules > New Rule
Choose Port, then TCP
Add the port numbers, name it "QB Ports", and click Finish.
Repeat for Outbound Rules
Pro Tip: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub
Download and run the QuickBooks File Doctor or Network Issues Tool from the official Tool Hub
Step 3: Set Correct Folder Permissions
QuickBooks needs full access to the shared folder where the company file is stored.
How to Set Folder Permissions:
Right-click on the shared folder
Select Properties > Sharing > Advanced Sharing
Check "Share this folder" > Click Permissions
Set Full Control to Everyone
Click Apply and OK
Step 4: Check QuickBooks Services
Two services must run correctly:
QuickBooksDBXX (XX = version year)
QBCFMonitorService
To check services:
Press Windows + R > type
services.mscFind both services
Make sure their status is Running and Startup type is set to Automatic
Restart the services if needed
Step 5: Ping Server from Workstations
This helps ensure your network is functioning correctly.
On the workstation, open Command Prompt
Type:
ping [ServerName]Example:
ping Server-PCYou should receive replies without timeout
If not, your server may not be visible due to network isolation or firewall rules.
Read More:-QuickBooks Desktop 2024 Running Slow
Additional Tips to Prevent Future Issues
Always keep QuickBooks updated to the latest release
Use a dedicated server for hosting your company file
Avoid using Wi-Fi connections for workstations—prefer Ethernet
Backup your company files regularly
Run QuickBooks Database Server Manager scan whenever you change the file location
Conclusion
Experiencing QuickBooks Multi-User Mode Not Working is a huge productivity blocker—but it doesn’t have to be a long-term problem. By correctly configuring firewall settings, adjusting folder permissions, and ensuring QuickBooks services are running, you can get back to smooth operations quickly.
And if you're still facing trouble, call the support number +1-866-409-5111—because your time is better spent running your business, not troubleshooting software!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What causes QuickBooks Multi-User Mode to stop working?
A: It’s usually caused by firewall blocking ports, incorrect hosting setup, or missing permissions on the shared folder.
Q2. How do I fix QuickBooks Error H202?
A: Use QuickBooks File Doctor, check firewall rules, ensure hosting is enabled only on the server, and restart services like QuickBooksDBXX.
Q3. Do I need QuickBooks Database Server Manager?
A: Yes, especially on the server machine. It allows QuickBooks to manage and access the company file over a network.
Q4. Is it safe to allow “Full Control” folder permissions?
A: Yes, within your internal network, giving Full Control ensures QuickBooks users can read/write company data without access errors.
Q5. Can I call QuickBooks Support for help?
A: Absolutely! Call +1-866-409-5111 for expert assistance on any QuickBooks Desktop multi-user mode issue.
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