If you’re struggling with QuickBooks Error H505 when trying to enable multi-user mode, you’re not alone. This common error can prevent access to your company files across the network, disrupting daily operations for teams that rely on real-time collaboration. The good news? Fixing it quickly is possible, especially with the right guidance. Read on for causes, step-by-step fixes, and expert tips to restore your workflow—and remember, expert help is always available at +1-866-408-0444.
What is QuickBooks Error H505?
QuickBooks Error H505 appears when QuickBooks Desktop can’t reach the company file on another computer due to networking, configuration, or permission problems. It’s part of the H-series errors, which mostly affect multi-user environments where multiple workstations try to connect to a file stored on a server.
The error message typically says:
“This company file is on another computer, and QuickBooks needs some help connecting.”
Why Does QuickBooks Error H505 Occur?
The most common causes include:
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Incorrect hosting settings: Multiple computers set to host, or none is hosting the company file.
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Firewall or antivirus blocking QuickBooks: Security software may prevent the needed network communication.
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Damaged or missing .ND files: The network data file manages multi-user access and connectivity to your company file.
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Network connectivity issues: Problems with DNS, weak network signal, or improper permissions can block access.
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QuickBooks services not running: Essential background services like QuickBooksDBXX or QBCFMonitorService may not be enabled.
How to Fix QuickBooks Error H505: Step-by-Step Solutions
Take these steps in order for the fastest resolution:
1. Verify Hosting Settings
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On all computers except the server, open QuickBooks, go to File > Utilities.
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If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, select it to disable hosting on those workstations.
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On the server, ensure hosting is enabled by selecting Host Multi-User Access (ignore if already enabled).
2. Check and Configure Firewall Settings
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Open Windows Firewall settings.
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Create inbound and outbound rules to allow QuickBooks.exe and QuickBooks Database Server traffic.
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Add exceptions for the following ports (as per your QuickBooks version):
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2018-2021: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382
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Restart the firewall service after making changes.
3. Ensure Essential QuickBooks Services are Running
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Press
Windows + R, typeservices.msc, and hit Enter. -
Locate QuickBooksDBXX (where XX is your version) and QBCFMonitorService.
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Right-click each, choose Properties, set Startup Type to Automatic, and click Start if not running.
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Repeat this for both services.
4. Repair Network Data File (.ND)
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Locate your company folder, find the file with extension
.NDrelated to your company file (e.g., CompanyFile.qbw.nd). -
Rename it (e.g., CompanyFile.qbw.nd.old).
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Restart QuickBooks—this will regenerate the .ND file and may resolve H505.
5. Use QuickBooks File Doctor
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Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub from Intuit.
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Open it and run QuickBooks File Doctor. Select your company file and let it scan and fix network issues automatically.
6. Create a New Folder for the Company File
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On your server, create a new shared folder with full permissions.
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Move the company file (
.qbw) into the new folder. -
Update network permissions to ensure all workstations can access the new location.
7. Restart All Systems
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After completing the above steps, restart both the server and all workstations.
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Attempt to open the company file in multi-user mode from each workstation.
Preventing QuickBooks Error H505
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Disable hosting on all non-server computers.
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Keep QuickBooks, Windows, and antivirus/firewall software updated.
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Backup your company files regularly.
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Maintain a stable network—and periodically check user and folder permissions for changes.
When to Call for Help
If you’ve tried all steps and still encounter QuickBooks Error H505, it may point to deeper network or file corruption issues. Don’t hesitate to call +1-866-408-0444 for immediate expert assistance and minimal downtime.
FAQs
What is QuickBooks Error H505?
QuickBooks Error H505 is a multi-user mode error that occurs when QuickBooks Desktop cannot connect to the server hosting the company file due to network or configuration issues.
How do I know which computer should host multi-user access?
Only your server—that is, the computer storing the company file—should have “Host Multi-User Access” enabled.
Why does my firewall block QuickBooks?
Firewalls block unknown applications by default. Unless configured, QuickBooks cannot share files over the network, triggering error H505.