Troubleshoot QuickBooks Error 12031 (Updated Steps 2023)

QuickBooks users may encounter Error 12031 when updating the software or its additional features. Internet connectivity issues can cause various update errors, including those in the 12XXX series. If QuickBooks has trouble connecting to the internet, it can result in problems with online services such as payroll and banking, as well as error 12031.

This article will provide the latest DIY techniques that can be used to How to Fix QuickBooks Payroll Update Error Code 12031 easily. Thus, keep read on!

A brief review of QuickBooks Error 12031

QuickBooks users may encounter error 12031 while updating QuickBooks Desktop, Payroll, New Features, Maintenance Releases, or Accountant, which is part of the 12XXX series of errors. When this error occurs, QuickBooks displays an error message indicating that a network timeout is preventing access to the server.

The suggested solution involves checking the internet connection setup in QuickBooks and ensuring that it is set to use the computer's internet connection. However, implementing this solution may not be straightforward, and a more detailed troubleshooting method is available for a quick fix.

What may lead to QuickBooks payroll error 12031?

Error 12031 can be caused by a number of factors. Here are some of the most common causes:

Internet connection issues: The error can occur if there are issues with your internet connection. This can include a weak signal, a slow connection, or a connection that is disrupted.

Firewall or antivirus settings: If your firewall or antivirus settings are blocking QuickBooks from accessing the internet, it can result in such error. Make sure that QuickBooks is added to the exception list in your firewall and antivirus software.

Internet security protocols: If your internet security protocols are not set up correctly, it can cause such error. Make sure that SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0 are enabled in your internet options.

Outdated QuickBooks software: If you are using an outdated version of QuickBooks, it may not be compatible with the latest updates. Make sure that you are using the latest version of QuickBooks.

Network timeouts: If there are network timeouts while trying to download updates, it can cause this problem.

Other software conflicts: Other software on your system can interfere with QuickBooks updates, causing this error.

By identifying the specific cause of the error, you can take appropriate steps to resolve it and get QuickBooks running smoothly again.

Steps to Troubleshoot QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 12031

Following are some steps you can take to resolve the issue:

Method 1: Update the Internet Connection Settings

  • Open QuickBooks Desktop and navigate to the Help tab.
  • Select Internet Connection Setup.

  • Choose the option "Use my computer's internet connection settings" and click Next.
  • Click Done and attempt to run the QuickBooks update once more.
  • If the error persists in the Update QuickBooks window, proceed to the next troubleshooting step, which involves resetting the QuickBooks updates.

 

Method 2: Reset the QuickBooks Desktop Updates

  • Click on "Reset Updates" and then select "Get Updates".

  • If the error persists, ensure that your computer is connected to the internet to address the payroll update error 12031.
  • Method 3: Run QuickBooks Updates in Windows Safe Mode
  • Press the Windows + R keys on your keyboard and type "msconfig".
  • Click OK or press Enter to open the Windows System Configuration Window.

  • Navigate to the Boot tab and uncheck the Safe Boot option under Boot Options.
  • Click Apply and then OK to save the changes.
  • Restart your computer, and the system will boot in Safe Mode.
  • Once the system is in Safe Mode, try running the payroll update again.

 

Method 4: Install a Digital Signature Certificate

 

  • Navigate to C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks.
  • Right-click on the QBW32.exe file and select Properties.
  • Go to the Digital Signature tab and check if Intuit is listed in the signature list.
  • Click on Details.
  • In the Digital Signature Details window, select View Certificate.

  • Use the Certificate window to select Install Certificate.

  • Click Next until you see Finish, and then press the Finish button.
  • Restart your computer.
  • Launch QuickBooks and try downloading the updates.

Method 5: Update the Internet Explorer settings

  • Click on Tools and select Internet Options.
  • On the General tab, choose Delete.
  • Select Temporary Internet files and then Delete (note: do not select "delete cookies").
  • Go to the "Connections" tab and then "LAN settings."
  • Select the "Automatically Detect Settings" option and ensure that proxy servers are blank (if not in use).

  • Click on "OK" twice.
  • Choose the "Advanced" tab and scroll down about 3/4 of the list.
  • Verify that SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0 are marked, and that the "Check for publisher's certificate" option is not marked.

  • Scroll down to the bottom of the screen.
  • Mark the TLS 1.2 option.
  • Keep the TLS 1.0 and TLS 1.1 options unchecked; unmark them if selected.

  • Method 6: Configure your firewall and antivirus

    To configure the firewall in QuickBooks, the users need to add QuickBooks to the exception list in your firewall and antivirus software. Make sure that the ports needed by QuickBooks are open.

     

    Sum up!

    There may be situations where the QuickBooks error message 12031 continues to appear even after attempting all the troubleshooting methods. In such a case, if you are unable to resolve the running issue, you can seek assistance from our certified QuickBooks payroll error support expert by contacting via our helpline i.e., 1-800-615-2347.

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