How to Fix the Payroll Update Issue: QuickBooks Error 12031

The payroll update issue is QuickBooks error 12031. This error typically appears when a user tries to update QuickBooks or QuickBooks Payroll Services. 

You may encounter it during a network outage. When the firewall and other system security software are flagged as problematic because of improper or incorrect configuration, QuickBooks update error 12031 typically occurs. 

According to your responses, QuickBooks error 12031 is caused by incorrect browser settings. If your device experiences a similar technical issue, we have compiled some pertinent information. Read the entire blog post to understand the issue better.

If you don't want to trouble yourself with all these technical error code 12031 in QuickBooks, contact a QuickBooks expert to resolve the issue anytime. Dial +1(855)-738–0359 to connect with them now!

Why I Am Encountering QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 12031 on Desktop

You must understand the causes of QuickBooks error code 12031 before you can troubleshoot it. A poor internet connection primarily causes error 12031 in QuickBooks. Let's also examine a few secondary reasons:

• QuickBooks Desktop is out of date, which could lead to problems while updating the payroll feature

• Inappropriate administrator privileges granted

• Using a different browser than the one you usually use

• Interference caused by firewall and internet settings

• Between QB and the internet, there is a network time-out problem or other connectivity issues

• Incorrect settings for the Secure Socket Layer (SSL)

• QuickBooks' digital signature certificate is either out-of-date, missing, or unconfirmed

• QuickBooks error message 12031 may occur if your QB Desktop program is corrupted, damaged, or improperly installed

• During the QB updates, your computer's date and time settings may be off

• Your QB company file either has data damage or is not data-integrated

• Either your Windows OS is out of date, or essential Windows system files may be corrupted

Now that you know the causes of QuickBooks error 12031, let's move on to the next section and discover how to troubleshoot them.

How can I resolve the Payroll Update on QuickBooks Error 12031?

If you are experiencing QuickBooks' connectivity error 12031, you should troubleshoot the cause of the error.

You can solve this issue permanently with the help of the solutions listed below. Let's get going.

Step 1: Check the Settings and Connectivity

Since QuickBooks accesses the Internet through Internet Explorer, it must be the default browser. Make sure you can access other websites as well.

• Run the TLS 1.2 Utility after downloading it

• Check that you can access secure websites, like your financial institution's sign-in page, from outside of QuickBooks Desktop

Step 2: Examine the Settings in Internet Explorer

Internet Explorer settings can occasionally cause update download problems. To check the settings in Internet Explorer:

• After shutting down QuickBooks Desktop, launch Internet Explorer

• After choosing Tools, select Internet Options

• Note: If you are unable to locate Tools, press Alt on the keyboard

• Make sure the security level is no higher than Medium-High by selecting the Globe icon on the Security tab

• If you don't use the system's dial-up node (DUN), choose Never Dial a Connection from the Connections tab; if you do, choose the appropriate ISP

• Click OK

• Make sure the automatically detect settings are selected after selecting LAN Settings, and then confirm that the Use a Proxy Server checkbox is checked

• If the option to Use a Proxy Server is chosen, note the full address and port

• Don't uncheck the Use a Proxy Server option if the port isn't 80

• For testing purposes, you can remove the checkbox if the port is 80

• Click Ok

• Locate and confirm that Use TLS 1.2 is selected under Settings after choosing Restore Advanced Settings on the Advanced tab

• Click OK

• After shutting down Internet Explorer, restart your computer

Now that QuickBooks Desktop is open, you can try the update once more.

Step 3: Verify the Security Configurations

If none of the above fixes the problem, the next step is to ascertain whether another program or process is blocking the download. If you cannot identify the security software generating the error, see a computer or IT specialist.

Set up parental control, personal firewall, and Internet security software for QuickBooks Desktop updates, tax table updates, payroll data transmission, and Windows firewall.

If these fixes didn't fix the problem, try downloading the update again after starting Microsoft Windows in safe mode with networking.

Also read about:- QuickBooks Payroll Update Not Working? Top Reasons & Fixes

Conclusion 

Now that you know that a bad internet connection or incorrect internet settings may cause QuickBooks error 12031 on your computer, you should know how to fix it.

Since not everyone is tech-savvy, our team understands that some people may need straightforward, step-by-step instructions from a technical expert. You can get assistance from our QuickBooks advisory Team at +1(855)-738–0359.

FAQs on QuickBooks Error 12031

What is QuickBooks Error 12031?

• QuickBooks Error 12031 occurs when there is a connectivity issue preventing QuickBooks from updating. It is usually caused by internet connection problems, firewall restrictions, or incorrect SSL settings, which block QuickBooks from accessing the update server.

Why does QuickBooks Error 12031 happen?

• This error happens due to an unstable internet connection, firewall or security software blocking QuickBooks, incorrect network settings, or issues with SSL configuration. If QuickBooks cannot establish a secure connection, it fails to download updates.

How do I fix QuickBooks Error 12031?

• To fix this error, check your internet connection, configure firewall settings to allow QuickBooks, and ensure SSL settings are correctly enabled. Switching to a wired connection instead of Wi-Fi can also help improve stability and resolve the issue.

Can my firewall settings cause QuickBooks Error 12031?

• Yes, firewall settings can block QuickBooks from connecting to the internet, causing Error 12031. Adding QuickBooks as an exception in firewall and security settings allows it to communicate with the update server without interference.

Does resetting Internet Explorer settings help in fixing QuickBooks Error 12031?

• Yes, since QuickBooks uses Internet Explorer as its default browser, resetting its settings can resolve connectivity issues. Ensuring that TLS 1.2 is enabled and SSL settings are correctly configured may help fix the error.

Can switching to a different network resolve QuickBooks Error 12031?

• If the issue is related to network restrictions, switching to a different internet connection may help. A more stable and unrestricted network allows QuickBooks to connect to the update server without interruptions.

Does QuickBooks File Doctor fix Error 12031?

• QuickBooks File Doctor primarily repairs company file issues, but it does not directly resolve network-related errors like Error 12031. Instead, checking and troubleshooting internet settings is the best approach to fix this issue.

Is QuickBooks Error 12031 related to payroll updates?

• Yes, this error often appears when trying to update QuickBooks payroll services. If QuickBooks cannot connect to the payroll server due to internet issues or incorrect configurations, it may trigger Error 12031.

Can reinstalling QuickBooks resolve Error 12031?

• Reinstalling QuickBooks is not usually necessary to fix this error. Instead, verifying internet settings, adjusting firewall permissions, and ensuring proper SSL configurations should be the first steps in resolving it.

How can I prevent QuickBooks Error 12031 in the future?

• To prevent this error, ensure that your internet connection is stable, configure firewall settings to allow QuickBooks, update network settings regularly, and enable the correct security protocols within Internet Explorer to maintain a secure connection.