Update your settings

QuickBooks Error 12031 is a common update-related issue that usually appears when users try to update QuickBooks Desktop or the payroll service. This error is typically caused by internet connectivity problems, misconfigured network settings, or firewall restrictions that prevent QuickBooks from accessing its update servers. If you’re facing this error, don’t worry—this guide explains everything you need to know about its causes, symptoms, and effective solutions.

What Is QuickBooks Error 12031?

QuickBooks Error 12031 belongs to the 12000 series of update errors. It generally occurs due to a timeout in the internet connection while QuickBooks attempts to download updates. The software fails to connect to the Intuit server, resulting in an update interruption.

Common message:
“QuickBooks cannot complete the update due to a network timeout or connectivity issues.”

This means your system or network is blocking QuickBooks from establishing a stable, secure connection.

Major Causes of QuickBooks Error 12031

Several factors may trigger this update error in QuickBooks Desktop:

• Unstable internet connection or unexpected drop during the update process.

• Incorrect SSL or internet security settings blocking secure data transfer.

• Firewall or antivirus restrictions preventing QuickBooks from connecting to update servers.

• Misconfigured Internet Explorer (IE) settings, which QuickBooks uses by default.

• Network timeouts caused by server delays or slow connections.

• Outdated QuickBooks Desktop version attempting to access the server.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 12031

You may notice the following signs when this error occurs:

• Payroll or QuickBooks updates suddenly fail.

• Frequent connection timeouts while downloading updates.

• QuickBooks freezes or stops responding during the update process.

• “Update Failed” notifications repeatedly appear on the screen.

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 12031

Below are proven solutions to resolve the error and restore smooth update functionality.

1. Check and Repair Your Internet Connection

QuickBooks requires a stable and secure network connection.

• Open Internet Explorer > Tools > Internet Options.

• Go to Connections and click LAN Settings.

• Make sure “Automatically Detect Settings” is checked.

• Uncheck any proxy server unless your network requires one.

• Save changes and restart QuickBooks.

2. Enable SSL Settings

• Open Internet Options > Advanced Tab.

• Enable SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0.

• Apply changes, restart your PC, and try the update again.

3. Configure Firewall & Antivirus Settings

Your firewall may be blocking QuickBooks connections.

• Allow QuickBooks.exe and QBW32.exe through your firewall.

• Add exceptions for QuickBooks ports: 80, 443, and other relevant update ports.

• Restart your system and retry the update.

4. Reset QuickBooks Update Settings

• Open QuickBooks Desktop.

• Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.

• Choose Reset Update.

• Click Get Updates again.

5. Update QuickBooks to the Latest Release

Keeping QuickBooks updated ensures compatibility with Intuit servers.
Navigate to Help > Update QuickBooks and download all available updates.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 12031 is a connectivity-related issue that can interrupt important updates and affect payroll processing. By fixing internet settings, adjusting firewalls, enabling SSL, and resetting the update process, you can quickly resolve the error. If the problem persists, it may indicate deeper network issues or configuration errors, and seeking professional QuickBooks support can help ensure a smooth, uninterrupted workflow.