🧩 QuickBooks Error H303 – Pro-Recommendations to Fix the Error

QuickBooks Error H303 is a multi-user mode connectivity issue that typically occurs when QuickBooks Desktop fails to access a company file located on another computer. This error is part of the H-series (H101, H202, H303, H505), which all relate to network configuration problems. The H303 error specifically indicates that the computer hosting the company file requires additional setup to allow access from other systems.

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⚠️ What Causes QuickBooks Error H303?

According to verified sources, common triggers include:

• 🌐 Incorrect hosting configuration on the server or workstations
• 🧱 Damaged or misconfigured .ND (Network Descriptor) file
• 🛡️ Firewall or antivirus blocking QuickBooks communication
• ❌ Missing QuickBooks Database Server Manager on the host system
• 🔄 DNS or IP address conflicts between systems
• 🧩 QuickBooks not added as an exception in Windows Firewall

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🛠️ Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

✅ Step 1: Verify Hosting Settings

Instructions:

• On the server:

  1. Open QuickBooks and go to File > Utilities.
  2. Ensure Host Multi-User Access is enabled.

• On workstations:

  1. Go to File > Utilities.
  2. Ensure Stop Hosting Multi-User Access is selected.

Only the server should host the company file.

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🔧 Step 2: Rename .ND File

Instructions:

1. Navigate to the folder containing your company file.
2. Locate the .ND file (e.g., CompanyFile.qbw.nd).
3. Rename it to CompanyFile.qbw.nd.old.
4. Open QuickBooks and rescan the folder using Database Server Manager.

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🧰 Step 3: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

Instructions:

1. Download and open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
2. Go to Company File Issues.
3. Click QuickBooks File Doctor.
4. Browse and select your company file.
5. Let the scan complete and follow any repair prompts.

This tool automatically detects and repairs file and network issues.

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🛡️ Step 4: Configure Firewall and Antivirus

Instructions:

1. Add QuickBooks and QBW32.exe as exceptions in your firewall.
2. Open required ports:
   • TCP: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382
   • UDP: 56727
3. Temporarily disable antivirus software and retry opening the file.

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🌐 Step 5: Check Network Connectivity

Instructions:

1. Ping the server from each workstation:
   • Open Command Prompt and type:
     ping [ServerName]
2. If the ping fails, troubleshoot your network or DNS settings.
3. Ensure all systems are on the same network and domain.

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🧹 Step 6: Install QuickBooks Database Server Manager

If not already installed on the host system:

Instructions:

1. Download the installer from Intuit’s official site.
2. Run the setup and choose Custom or Network Options.
3. Select I’ll be storing company file on this computer.
4. Complete installation and restart the server.

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🧠 Pro Tips

• Always back up your company file before making changes.
• Avoid using mapped drives; use UNC paths like \\ServerName\SharedFolder.
• Ensure all users are using the same version and release of QuickBooks.
• Restart the server and workstations after making configuration changes.

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