How to Resolve QuickBooks Error H303?

QuickBooks is a popular accounting software used by numerous businesses to manage their financial records efficiently. However, like any other software, QuickBooks is not immune to errors. One such error is QuickBooks Error H303, which occurs when you attempt to open a company file that is located on another computer. This error prevents users from accessing their company files, hindering their ability to work seamlessly. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the causes of QuickBooks Error H303 and provide you with a step-by-step solution to resolve it.

Section 1: Understanding QuickBooks Error H303

QuickBooks Error H303 is a part of the H-series errors that usually indicate issues related to multi-user hosting. Specifically, Error H303 occurs when QuickBooks is unable to establish a connection with the company file on a different computer, usually due to incorrect configuration settings or network-related problems.

Section 2: Common Causes of QuickBooks Error H303

1. Incorrect hosting configuration: QuickBooks needs to be set up correctly to allow multi-user access. If the hosting configuration is not properly adjusted, it can lead to Error H303.
2. Damaged or incorrect .ND file: The Network Data (ND) file in QuickBooks is responsible for allowing access to the company file over the network. If this file gets damaged or contains incorrect information, it can trigger Error H303.
3. Firewall or security software blocking the connection: Sometimes, the firewall or security software installed on the computer may block the connection between QuickBooks and the company file, leading to Error H303.
4. Incorrect DNS settings: Domain Name System (DNS) settings help in resolving network connections. If the DNS settings are incorrect, QuickBooks may fail to locate the company file, resulting in Error H303.

Section 3: Step-by-Step Solution to Resolve QuickBooks Error H303

Step 1: Verify network connectivity

1. Ensure that all computers connected to the network have stable internet connectivity.
2. Check if you can ping the server computer from the workstation by following these steps:
   • Press Windows + R on your keyboard to open the Run dialog box.
   • Type “cmd” and hit Enter to open the Command Prompt.
   • Type “ping [server name]” (without quotes) and press Enter.
   • If you receive replies from the server, it indicates a healthy network connection. If not, troubleshoot network connectivity issues.

Step 2: Update QuickBooks to the latest release

1. Open QuickBooks and navigate to the “Help” menu.
2. Select “Update QuickBooks” and click on “Update Now.”
3. Checkmark the “Reset Update” box and click on “Get Updates.”
4. Once the update is complete, restart your computer and check if the error persists.

Step 3: Adjust firewall settings

1. Configure Windows Firewall:
   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
   • Type “Control Panel” and click OK.
   • Go to “System and Security” and select “Windows Defender Firewall.”
   • Click on “Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.”
   • Locate QuickBooks from the list and ensure that both “Private” and “Public” checkboxes are selected.
   • If QuickBooks is not listed, click on “Allow another app” and browse for QuickBooks.
2. Configure third-party firewall or security software:
   • Refer to the documentation provided by the firewall or security software manufacturer for instructions on allowing QuickBooks through the software.

Step 4: Create a new folder for your company file

1. Create a new folder on the hosting computer to share the company file.
2. Share the folder containing the company file by following these steps:
   • Right-click on the folder and select “Properties.”
   • Go to the “Sharing” tab and click on “Advanced Sharing.”
   • Checkmark “Share this folder” and click on “Permissions.”
   • Ensure that “Full Control” is allowed for all users.
   • Click OK to save the changes.

Step 5: Update the .ND file

1. Open the folder containing the company file and locate the corresponding .ND file.
2. Right-click on the .ND file and select “Rename.”
3. Add “.OLD” at the end of the file name and press Enter.

Step 6: Create a new .ND file

1. Open QuickBooks Database Server Manager:
   • Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
   • Type “services.msc” and click OK.
   • Locate “QuickBooksDBXX” service, where XX represents the version of QuickBooks you are using.
   • Right-click on the service and select “Properties.”
2. In the “Properties” window, note down the “Path to Executable.”
3. Open File Explorer and navigate to the path obtained in the previous step.
4. Locate and double-click on “QBDBMgrN.exe” to open QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
5. Click on “Add Folder” and browse to the new folder you created in Step 4.
6. Click on “Scan” to initiate the scanning process.
7. Once the scan is complete, click on “Close” to exit QuickBooks Database Server Manager.

Step 7: Update the hosts file

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type “cmd” and press Enter to open the Command Prompt.
3. Type “ipconfig /all” and press Enter.
4. Note down the IPv4 Address and Hostname for the server computer.
5. Open Notepad as an administrator.
6. Open the hosts file located at “C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\etc\hosts.”
7. Add the server’s IP address and hostname in the following format:[Server’s IP Address] [Server’s Hostname]
8. Save the hosts file and close Notepad.

Conclusion:

QuickBooks Error H303 can be a frustrating hurdle, but by following the step-by-step solution outlined in this comprehensive guide, you can effectively resolve the issue. Remember to verify network connectivity, update QuickBooks, adjust firewall settings, create a new folder for the company file, update the .ND file, create a new .ND file, and update the hosts file as necessary. If the error persists even after following these steps, it is recommended to seek assistance from a QuickBooks expert or support team for further troubleshooting.