QuickBooks is a highly efficient accounting software that streamlines financial management for businesses. However, like any software, it’s not without its hiccups. One such hiccup is QuickBooks Error H505. If you've encountered this error, you're in the right place. This comprehensive guide will explain what QuickBooks Error H505 is, its general causes, and provide troubleshooting solutions to fix it. Let's dive in!

What is QuickBooks Error H505?

QuickBooks Error H505 is part of the H series errors, which generally relate to issues with multi-user hosting settings. This error typically occurs when a user tries to access a company file that is located on another computer, and that computer requires additional configuration. The error message usually reads:

“Error code: H505 - This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error H505

• QuickBooks runs slowly or hangs frequently.
• You are unable to switch to multi-user mode.
• A message box with error code H505 pops up.
• The system crashes periodically when running QuickBooks.
• The computer becomes unresponsive to mouse or keyboard inputs.

General Causes of QuickBooks Error H505

Understanding the root cause of the error can help in effectively troubleshooting and preventing it in the future. Here are some common reasons for encountering QuickBooks Error H505:

1. Incorrect Hosting Configuration: The multi-user hosting configuration might be incorrect or not set up properly on the server.
2. Firewall Blocking Communication: A firewall or security software might be blocking communication between QuickBooks and the server.
3. DNS Issues: Incorrect or outdated DNS settings can prevent QuickBooks from locating the server.
4. Damaged or Missing .ND File: The .ND (Network Descriptor) file, which is essential for multi-user setup, might be damaged or missing.
5. QuickBooks Database Server Manager Issues: Problems with the QuickBooks Database Server Manager can also lead to this error.
6. IP Address Issues: QuickBooks might be using an incorrect IP address to access the server.

Troubleshooting Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error H505

Here are some effective solutions to resolve QuickBooks Error H505. Follow these steps carefully to get your QuickBooks back to its optimal state.

Solution 1: Verify Hosting Settings

1. Open QuickBooks on All Workstations:
• Go to File > Utilities.
• Ensure Host Multi-User Access is selected on the server.
• Ensure Stop Hosting Multi-User Access is selected on all workstations.
2. Restart QuickBooks:
• Restart QuickBooks on all systems to apply the changes.

Solution 2: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

QuickBooks File Doctor is a handy tool designed by Intuit to fix network issues automatically.

1. Download and Install QuickBooks Tool Hub:
• Go to the official Intuit website and download the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
• Follow the installation instructions.
2. Run QuickBooks File Doctor:
• Open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
• Click on Company File Issues.
• Select Run QuickBooks File Doctor.
• Choose the company file from the dropdown menu.
• Click on Check your file and Continue.
• Enter your QuickBooks admin password and select Next.

Solution 3: Configure Firewall and Security Settings

1. Add Firewall Exceptions:
• Open the Control Panel and go to System and Security > Windows Firewall.
• Click on Advanced Settings.
• Right-click Inbound Rules and select New Rule.
• Choose Port and click Next.
• Select TCP and enter the following ports:
• QuickBooks Desktop 2019: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382
• QuickBooks Desktop 2018: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377
• Click Next and select Allow the Connection.
• Complete the wizard by naming the rule.
2. Repeat for Outbound Rules.
3. Add QuickBooks to Exception List:
• Open the firewall and go to Allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall.
• Ensure all QuickBooks applications are allowed through the firewall.

Solution 4: Edit the Host File

1. Locate the Host File:
• Navigate to C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\Etc.
2. Edit the Host File:
• Open the host file with Notepad.
• Add the IP address and computer name of the server at the end of the file.
• Save and close the file.

Solution 5: Check QuickBooks Services

1. Verify QuickBooksDBXX and QBCFMonitorService:
• Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
• Type services.msc and press Enter.
• Locate QuickBooksDBXX (where XX is your version) and QBCFMonitorService.
• Ensure both services are set to Automatic and are running.
2. Restart Services:
• Right-click each service and select Restart.

Solution 6: Rename .ND and .TLG Files

1. Locate the Company File:
• Open the folder containing your company file.
2. Rename .ND and .TLG Files:
• Find files with extensions .ND and .TLG related to your company file.
• Right-click and select Rename.
• Add .OLD at the end of each file name (e.g., CompanyName.qbw.nd to CompanyName.qbw.nd.OLD).
3. Restart QuickBooks:
• Open QuickBooks and try to access your company file again.

Solution 7: Verify Network Connectivity

1. Ping the Server:
• Open Command Prompt on the workstation.
• Type ping [server name] and press Enter.
• Ensure you receive replies from the server.
2. Check Network Configuration:
• Ensure all computers are on the same network.
• Verify network settings to ensure proper communication between the server and workstations.

Solution 8: Reinstall QuickBooks

If all else fails, reinstalling QuickBooks might resolve the issue.

1. Uninstall QuickBooks:
• Open the Control Panel.
• Go to Programs and Features.
• Select QuickBooks and click Uninstall.
2. Reinstall QuickBooks:
• Download the latest version of QuickBooks from the official website.
• Follow the installation instructions.
• Restore your company file.

Conclusion

Resolving QuickBooks Error H505 might seem daunting, but with these detailed troubleshooting steps, you can fix the issue and get back to managing your business finances efficiently. Always ensure that your QuickBooks software is updated, and maintain regular backups of your company files to prevent data loss.