QuickBooks Desktop is one of the most powerful tools for small and mid-sized businesses, especially with its multi-user mode feature. But one common issue users face is the “QuickBooks Hosting Mode is Off” message. When this mode is disabled, other users can’t access the company file stored on a host system.
If you’re seeing this issue and need help, don’t worry—we’ll walk you through everything from what causes this problem to step-by-step solutions. For immediate support, feel free to call the QuickBooks Hosting Support Team at +1-(855)-954-6208.
✅ What Does “Hosting Mode is Off” Mean in QuickBooks?
When Hosting Mode is off, QuickBooks is not allowing other computers on the network to access the company file stored on your server or main computer. This means multi-user mode cannot function correctly, and other users will receive errors like:
H202: QuickBooks cannot connect to the company file
H505: Hosting mode is off or inaccessible
QuickBooks can’t open company file on another computer
To enable full network functionality, hosting mode must be turned ON on the computer acting as the host.
🔍 Why is QuickBooks Hosting Mode Turned Off?
There are several possible reasons:
🔸 1. Hosting Settings Misconfigured
If the host system’s hosting settings were turned off accidentally, other users won’t be able to connect.
🔸 2. QuickBooks Database Server Manager Not Running
This service is essential for multi-user access. If it’s disabled, hosting mode won’t function.
🔸 3. Incorrect Firewall or Network Configuration
Blocked ports and network restrictions can cause QuickBooks to believe hosting is off, even if settings are correct.
🔸 4. Multiple Computers Acting as Host
Only one computer should have hosting turned on. Enabling it on multiple systems can lead to conflicts.
🔸 5. Damaged .ND File
QuickBooks uses Network Descriptor (.ND) files to locate and open files across the network. A damaged file can prevent proper hosting.
For help diagnosing your specific case, call +1-(855)-954-6208 to speak with a QuickBooks expert.
🛠️ How to Fix QuickBooks Hosting Mode is Off
Follow these expert-level solutions to resolve the issue and get your network file sharing working smoothly.
✅ Solution 1: Verify Hosting is Enabled on the Server
Steps:
Open QuickBooks Desktop on your host computer.
Go to File > Utilities.
If you see Host Multi-User Access, click it to turn on hosting.
If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, hosting is already enabled.
Now try accessing the company file from another workstation. If it’s still unavailable, continue to the next step or call +1-(855)-954-6208 for support.
✅ Solution 2: Stop Hosting on All Workstations
Only the host computer should have hosting enabled. All others must have it disabled.
Steps:
On each workstation (non-host), open QuickBooks.
Go to File > Utilities.
If you see Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, click it to disable hosting.
Make sure only the server has hosting turned on.
✅ Solution 3: Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager
This tool is essential for multi-user access and hosting functionality.
Steps:
Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Open it and go to the Network Issues tab.
Launch QuickBooks Database Server Manager.
Click Start Scan on the folder that holds your company file.
The scan will create or repair the .ND file.
If this step fails, reach out to the QuickBooks Hosting Mode Help Desk at +1-(855)-954-6208.
✅ Solution 4: Configure Windows Firewall and Ports
QuickBooks requires open ports to share data across the network.
Steps:
Open Windows Firewall with Advanced Security.
Add inbound and outbound rules for QuickBooks ports:
QuickBooks 2023: 8019, 56728, 55378–55382
Allow QuickBooksDBXX.exe and QBDBMgrN.exe through the firewall.
Restart QuickBooks and check hosting mode again.
✅ Solution 5: Rename Damaged .ND File
If the .ND file is corrupted, QuickBooks won’t identify the company file.
Steps:
Go to the folder containing your company file.
Locate the file with the extension .ND (e.g., CompanyFile.qbw.nd).
Rename it to CompanyFile.qbw.nd.old.
Re-scan the folder using Database Server Manager.
This will create a fresh .ND file. Still stuck? Call +1-(855)-954-6208 for advanced help.
📞 Still Can’t Enable Hosting Mode?
If you’re still encountering issues, don’t waste valuable time troubleshooting alone. Contact the QuickBooks Hosting Support Experts at +1-(855)-954-6208. Our team is available 24/7 and can guide you through:
Hosting setup
Multi-user access troubleshooting
Database Server Manager configuration
Windows network and firewall settings
🧠 Tips to Prevent Hosting Issues in QuickBooks
Never enable hosting mode on more than one computer
Keep your QuickBooks updated
Perform regular scans using Database Server Manager
Check firewall settings after system or antivirus updates
Use a static IP address for the host computer
For proactive server setup, call +1-(855)-954-6208 for personalized assistance.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
🔹 Q1: What does "QuickBooks Hosting Mode is Off" mean?
It means the computer is not allowing others to access the company file. Hosting must be turned on to enable multi-user access.
🔹 Q2: Should hosting mode be on for all computers?
No, hosting should only be turned on for one computer—the one where the company file is stored.
🔹 Q3: Can multiple users work in the same company file without hosting?
No, hosting is required to allow simultaneous access by multiple users.
🔹 Q4: Why can’t other users open the company file even after enabling hosting?
There may be issues with firewall settings, damaged .ND files, or the Database Server Manager not running. Call +1-(855)-954-6208 for quick resolution.
🔹 Q5: What if I don’t have QuickBooks Database Server Manager installed?
You can install it via QuickBooks Tool Hub or the original installation files. It is essential for multi-user setup.
✅ Final Thoughts
When QuickBooks Hosting Mode is Off, it blocks access to your company file for other users, disrupting operations and slowing down productivity. Fortunately, this issue is fixable with the right tools and configuration steps. Whether it’s enabling hosting, fixing .ND files, or setting firewall rules, the solutions above should get you back on track.
Still can’t resolve the issue? Call the QuickBooks Hosting Mode Support Line at +1-(855)-954-6208 and let certified professionals handle the troubleshooting for you.