Running into QuickBooks Error H505 on your Mac? This error typically occurs when you're trying to access a company file stored on another computer (usually a server or Windows system) in multi-user mode, and QuickBooks can't establish a proper connection.
Also Read: QuickBooks H202 Error in Mac: Causes and How to Fix It
Let’s dive into what causes this error and how to fix it—even on a Mac setup.
What is QuickBooks Error H505?
QuickBooks Error H505 is part of a series of errors (H101, H202, H303, H505) that are related to multi-user mode configuration. It happens when a Mac or a virtualized Windows environment on a Mac is unable to reach the QuickBooks company file hosted on a different computer or server.
Also Read: QuickBooks Error Code 1603 : Fatal Error During Installation – Causes & Solutions
You may see this message:
"QuickBooks is trying to access the company file but cannot connect to the server."
Why Does H505 Happen on a Mac?
Even though QuickBooks Desktop doesn’t run natively on macOS (unless you’re using QuickBooks for Mac, which differs from Desktop), Mac users running QuickBooks through Parallels Desktop, VMware Fusion, or Remote Desktop can still face this error due to:
Misconfigured network settings
Windows Firewall blocking communication
Incorrect folder sharing permissions
QuickBooks Database Server Manager not running properly
DNS or IP resolution issues between Mac and the server
Also Read: QuickBooks Error Code 1935: Microsoft .NET Framework Error – How to Fix It
How to Fix QuickBooks H505 Error on Mac
1. Verify Hosting Settings (On the Server)
Ensure that only the server computer (usually a Windows machine) is hosting the company file.
On the server, open QuickBooks.
Go to File > Utilities.
Make sure only the Host Multi-User Access option is active.
If it says Stop Hosting Multi-User Access, click it (only the server should host).
Also Read: QuickBooks Error Code 3371: License Data Error – How to Fix It Quickly
2. Check Network Connection Between Mac and Server
Ensure your Mac (or virtual Windows environment) can reach the server:
Ping the server’s IP address.
Use Finder > Go > Connect to Server (
smb://ServerIPAddress) to check if the server is accessible.Make sure both computers are on the same network or VPN.
3. Adjust Windows Firewall Settings (On the Server)
Open ports required by QuickBooks on the server:
Open ports like 8019, 56728, and 55378–55382 (version-specific).
You can also temporarily disable the firewall for testing.
🔒 Always re-enable your firewall after testing.
4. Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager
If you’re using Parallels or VMware, make sure the QuickBooks Database Server Manager is installed and running in the Windows environment.
Go to Start > Services.
Locate QuickBooksDBXX (XX = version) and ensure it is Running and set to Automatic.
Also Read: QuickBooks Error Code 1904: File Registration Failure – How to Fix It
5. Edit Hosts File (Advanced Users)
On the Windows virtual machine or on the Mac (if using terminal), edit the hosts file to add the server’s name and IP address.
⚠️ Advanced step—recommended only if you're comfortable with networking and system files.
Quick Tip for QuickBooks for Mac Users
If you're using QuickBooks for Mac (native version) and trying to use a shared company file, make sure:
File sharing is enabled on the Mac that holds the file.
Permissions allow read/write access.
QuickBooks for Mac is updated to the latest version.
Also Read: QuickBooks Error Code 1722: Windows Installer Issue Explained
Still Need Help?
QuickBooks errors on Mac setups—especially when accessing files from a server—can be tricky to fix without deep system access. If the above steps don’t work, don’t spend hours troubleshooting alone.
📞 Call 855-749-2321 to speak with a QuickBooks expert and get your system back up and running fast.
Final Thoughts
QuickBooks H505 on Mac may not be as common as on Windows, but it can disrupt your workflow just the same. Whether you're running QuickBooks via a virtual machine or dealing with network access issues, following the right steps can get you back on track quickly.
Also Read: How to Fix QuickBooks H202 Error in Windows 10/11
Have more questions about QuickBooks on Mac or using multi-user mode? Drop a comment below or contact us anytime.