How to Resolve QuickBooks Error 15101 When When Trying to Downloading the Latest Payroll update?

hannahlynch65
New Contributor

QuickBooks Error 15101 is a common issue encountered when users attempt to update QuickBooks Desktop or its payroll services. This error typically arises due to a failure in the update process, and it may disrupt payroll updates, tax tables, or critical software patches. The root cause usually stems from network connectivity issues, misconfigured firewall settings, or improper digital signature certificate configurations in Internet Explorer.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 15101

  1. Invalid Digital Signature Certificate: QuickBooks relies on digital signature certificates for secure communications during updates. If the certificate is invalid or improperly configured, the update may fail.
  2. Firewall or Internet Security Blocking: Sometimes, antivirus or firewall settings block QuickBooks from accessing the internet, leading to the 15101 error.
  3. Internet Explorer Issues: Since QuickBooks uses Internet Explorer as its default browser for connectivity, any misconfigurations or outdated settings in IE could cause the error.
  4. Damaged or Corrupt QuickBooks Update Files: If the files being downloaded during the update are corrupted, QuickBooks may not proceed with the installation, triggering Error 15101.

Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error 15101

Solution 1: Verify Internet Explorer Settings

  1. Open Internet Explorer and go to "Tools" > "Internet Options."
  2. Under the "Advanced" tab, reset the settings to default.
  3. Ensure that TLS 1.0 is checked, and TLS 1.1 and TLS 1.2 are unchecked.
  4. Apply the changes and restart Internet Explorer.

Solution 2: Check and Update the Digital Signature Certificate

  1. Navigate to the folder where QuickBooks is installed (usually in Program Files).
  2. Locate the QBW32.exe file, right-click on it, and select "Properties."
  3. Under the "Digital Signatures" tab, ensure that Intuit, Inc. is listed.
  4. Select the signature and click on "Details."
  5. Click "View Certificate" and then "Install Certificate."
  6. Complete the installation by following the prompts, then restart QuickBooks.

Solution 3: Disable Firewall/Antivirus Temporarily

  1. Temporarily disable your firewall or antivirus software.
  2. Try updating QuickBooks again.
  3. Once the update is successful, re-enable your firewall or antivirus protection.

Solution 4: Use QuickBooks File Doctor

  1. Download and install the QuickBooks Tool Hub.
  2. Open the Tool Hub and select "Program Problems."
  3. Run QuickBooks File Doctor to identify and fix any issues related to update errors.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 15101 is mainly a network and security issue. By following the outlined solutions, users can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the problem. Ensure that your firewall, antivirus, and internet settings are correctly configured for smoother QuickBooks updates.

1 REPLY 1

earicaash45
New Contributor

I had been struggling with QuickBooks Error 15101 for days, and your step-by-step solutions made a huge difference. It’s great to see a comprehensive guide that tackles the issue from multiple angles. Much appreciated!