How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Update Errors?

5 min readJul 8, 2024

QuickBooks Desktop is a powerful accounting software used by businesses of all sizes to manage their finances. However, users may sometimes encounter update errors that can disrupt their workflow. This guide will cover common QuickBooks Desktop update errors, their causes, and detailed steps to resolve them effectively.

To help you fix this problem, we have some resources in this article. But if you need expert help, you can contact us anytime. We have a team of QuickBooks experts who are available 24/7 to assist you. Just call our support line at +1(844)-871–1393.

Common QuickBooks Desktop Update Errors

Error 12007

This error is related to internet connectivity issues, preventing QuickBooks from accessing the server.

Error 12157

This error occurs due to misconfigured system files, leading to conflicts within the software.

Error 15215

This error often happens when QuickBooks cannot verify the digital signature of a file, leading to a failed update.

Error 15106

This error is related to the inability to open the update program due to a corrupted file or insufficient permissions.

Error 1603

This error typically appears during the installation of QuickBooks Desktop updates and is related to the installation files.

Error 1328

This error occurs when there is an issue with the update process, often due to corrupted files.

Causes of QuickBooks Desktop Update Errors

Internet Connectivity Issues: Poor or unstable internet connections can prevent QuickBooks from downloading updates.
Firewall and Security Settings: Overly restrictive firewall or security settings can block QuickBooks from accessing necessary servers.
Incorrect System Date and Time: If your system’s date and time settings are incorrect, it can cause update failures.
Corrupted Installation Files: Damaged or corrupted installation files can lead to update errors.
Insufficient Permissions: Lack of administrative privileges can prevent QuickBooks from installing updates properly.

Steps to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Update Errors

Step 1: Verify Internet Connectivity

Check Internet Connection: Ensure your internet connection is stable. Try accessing a few websites to verify connectivity.
Reset Internet Explorer Settings:

Open Internet Explorer.
Click on the gear icon and select “Internet options.”
Go to the “Advanced” tab and click on “Reset.”
Restart your computer and try updating QuickBooks again.

Step 2: Adjust Firewall and Security Settings

Configure Firewall Settings:

Open your firewall software.
Ensure that QuickBooks files and ports (such as 80, 443, and 55389) are allowed.

Add QuickBooks as an Exception:

Open your antivirus software.
Add QuickBooks to the list of exceptions.

Step 3: Correct System Date and Time

Set Correct Date and Time:

Right-click on the clock in the system tray and select “Adjust date/time.”
Ensure the date, time, and time zone are correct.
Restart your computer and try updating QuickBooks again.

Step 4: Run QuickBooks Tool Hub

Download and Install QuickBooks Tool Hub:

Visit the official Intuit website to download QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Follow the installation instructions.

Run QuickBooks Tool Hub:

Open QuickBooks Tool Hub.
Go to the “Program Problems” tab.
Click on “Quick Fix my Program.”
Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your computer.

Step 5: Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks

Uninstall QuickBooks Desktop:

Go to “Control Panel” > “Programs and Features.”
Select QuickBooks Desktop and click “Uninstall.”

Download and Install QuickBooks Clean Install Tool:

Visit the official Intuit website to download the Clean Install Tool.
Follow the instructions to perform a clean install of QuickBooks.

Reinstall QuickBooks Desktop:

Download the latest version of QuickBooks Desktop from the Intuit website.
Follow the installation instructions.

Step 6: Manually Resolve Update Issues

Download Updates Manually:

Visit the QuickBooks update website.
Download the latest updates for your QuickBooks version.
Follow the instructions to install the updates manually.

Rename the C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks <version>\Components\OLB\ “downloaded” folder:

Rename it to “downloaded.old” and then retry the update.

Also read: QuickBooks Desktop 2024: Download, Installation, and Activation Guide

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What should I do if I encounter Error 12007?

Ans: Error 12007 is usually related to internet connectivity issues. Check your internet connection, reset Internet Explorer settings, and configure firewall settings to allow QuickBooks access.

Q2: How can I resolve Error 12157?

Ans: Error 12157 can be resolved by checking your system files for misconfigurations, resetting Internet Explorer settings, and ensuring your firewall settings are not overly restrictive.

Q3: What causes Error 15215 and how can I fix it?

Ans: Error 15215 occurs when QuickBooks cannot verify the digital signature of a file. To fix it, restart your computer, run QuickBooks as an administrator, and ensure your firewall and antivirus settings are not blocking QuickBooks.

Q4: How do I fix Error 15106?

Ans: Error 15106 is related to corrupted update files or insufficient permissions. Run QuickBooks as an administrator, disable your antivirus temporarily, and delete the downloadqb21 folder from C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks <version>.

Q5: What steps can I take to resolve Error 1603?

Ans: Error 1603 is usually related to installation issues. Perform a clean install of QuickBooks using the Clean Install Tool and ensure that all previous QuickBooks files are removed.

Q6: How can I fix Error 1328?

Ans: Error 1328 can be fixed by running the QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool from QuickBooks Tool Hub, repairing your QuickBooks installation, and ensuring your system files are not corrupted.

Q7: Why is my QuickBooks update failing due to incorrect system date and time?

Ans: QuickBooks updates can fail if your system date and time are incorrect. Ensure your date, time, and time zone settings are correct and try updating QuickBooks again.

Q8: What is QuickBooks Tool Hub and how can it help with update errors? Ans: QuickBooks Tool Hub is a free diagnostic tool provided by Intuit that consolidates several utilities into one application. It can help resolve various QuickBooks issues, including update errors.

Q9: How can I manually download and install QuickBooks updates?

Ans: Visit the QuickBooks update website, download the latest updates for your QuickBooks version, and follow the instructions to install them manually.

Q10: What should I do if none of these steps resolve my update errors? Ans: If none of the steps resolve your update errors, contact QuickBooks support for further assistance. They can provide additional troubleshooting steps and help you resolve the issue.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Desktop update errors can be frustrating, but by following these steps, you can resolve most issues and ensure your software is up to date. Regularly updating QuickBooks is essential for maintaining security, performance, and access to the latest features. If you encounter persistent issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to QuickBooks error support for professional assistance.