Fix QuickBooks Error 12002 | When Updating Payroll

Payroll for QuickBooks is one of the most well-known programs for meeting an organization’s payroll requirements. Payroll preparation for employees, vendor payments, and even employee payments via direct deposit are all possible solutions. Because it has so many wonderful features, it needs to be maintained, which is doable because the payroll is updated frequently. It is very annoying if this crucial task is delayed due to QuickBooks Error 12002. Consequently, this post will walk the user through resolving QuickBooks payroll update error 12002.

What Is QuickBooks Error 12002?

When the QuickBooks software cannot connect to the internet, it generates error code 12002. QuickBooks occasionally need help connecting to the internet for simple reasons, which might lead to more problems while the program is being updated. Incorrect browser and security settings or an application like a firewall or antivirus program interfering with the update may cause this. We have attempted to go into more detail about a few additional causes of these mistakes later.

Triggering Factors for QuickBooks Error 12002

Understanding the reasons for Error 12002 will help you to resolve it faster and control its occurrence in the future. Based on the queries that we get from our users, some of these prevalent causes are:

• Internet Explorer Configuration Problems: QuickBooks relies on Internet Explorer to provide its services, and thus any improper security settings can interrupt updates.
• Corrupted QuickBooks Installation: The corrupted QuickBooks installation files prevent the software to initialize updating process.
• Network Timeout: QuickBooks can be frozen because of a slow network or heavy network traffic. 
• Security Software Blocking QuickBooks: In some cases, the incorrect security options will prevent QuickBooks from accessing Intuit servers.
• Incorrect SSL Settings: Misconfigured SSL (Secure Socket Layer) creates a conflict while connecting with Intuit servers.

Now that we understand why the QuickBooks error 12002 appears on the screen, we must know how to resolve it. The following section covers the steps to troubleshoot this issue properly.

How Do I Know I Have Error 12002?

Before Error 12002 appears, the system shows some signs, understanding which helps you to address Error 12002 before it completely disrupts the payroll update. Here are some symptoms that warn about the error:

• QuickBooks is Not Able to download or Install Updates: Whenever you attempt to download the updates, the process fails every single time. 
• Software Runs Slow: QuickBooks becomes noticeably slower and freezes multiple times or becomes completely unresponsive when you are trying to update payroll functions. 
• QuickBooks Lost Network Connection: The application can display error messages saying that it cannot connect with the Intuit server.
• QuickBooks Shuts Down or Crashes during updates: QuickBooks unexpectedly crashes or even closes automatically during updates. 
• Slow Response: The computer gives slow response to keyboard or mouse inputs, especially during attempts to update QuickBooks.
• Windows Programs Keep Crashing: When launching Windows programs, it crashes unexpectedly, and Error 12002 is shown. This indicates that the system is being affected by the error.

Points to Remember

Before going on to the solution for error 12002 in QuickBooks Desktop, let’s look out for some points to remember:

• Keep a backup for your company file
• Update your QuickBooks desktop application.
• Download and operate TLS1.2 utility.
• Change Internet Explorer to your default browser.

Resolving QuickBooks Error 12002

Here is a list of some methods that can help troubleshoot the error 12002 in QuickBooks Desktop:

Fix 1: Check your Internet connection

To repair the Error 12002, sometimes, all you have to do is re-establish the connection settings. This approach allows QuickBooks identify the internet connection appropriately.

Here are the steps for the first solution:

• Launch QuickBooks and then go to the Help menu.
• Click and verify the Internet Connection Setup.
• Check if the connection is set to use your computer’s Internet connection.
• Select Next, followed by Done.
• Check if the error is resolved.

Fix 2: Set Internet Explorer as the default browser

Internet Explorer settings control how QuickBooks connects to the Internet. When these settings are wrong, QuickBooks can’t reach Intuit’s server to download updates. Start with this fix, as incorrect IE settings are the most common cause of Error 12002.

• Pressing the Windows and R keys on the keyboard will open the Run box.
• Type INETCPL.CPL into the Run window and press OK.
• Select the Programs tab and the option to set Internet Explorer as the default browser.
• A default window application will launch on your screen. In the web browser section, select Internet Explorer as your computer’s default web browser.
• Check for QuickBooks Desktop problem 12002 after you’re finished.

As an alternative, the process will resemble this:

• On your desktop, double-click the Internet Explorer choice.
• Press the Gear symbol in the top right corner of your lE window.
• After selecting Internet Options, select the Programs tab.
• Click the Make Default button under the Default Web browser.
• To save the modifications, click OK.

Read More: Download QuickBooks Connection Diagnostic Tool

Fix 3: Troubleshoot Internet Explorer

Resolving IE (Internet Explorer) issues prevents QuickBooks from freezing, experiencing connection issues, and experiencing data synchronisation failure. This refreshes QuickBooks network settings and resolves Error 12002.

• Start by shutting off Internet Explorer and all other system applications.
• Now press the Windows + R keys to open the Run window.
• Type INETCPL.CPL here, then select OK.
• Select the Advanced tab in the Internet Options dialogue box that appears in the now-open window.
• Select the Reset option from the Reset Internet Explorer Settings menu.
• If you need to remove your search providers, browsing history, protection tracking, accelerators, Active X Filtering data, and home pages, check the box labelled “Delete personal settings.”
• Click Close in the Reset Internet Explorer settings dialogue box once IE has completed the resetting process.
• Go to Internet Explorer and restart it after completing all of this.

Fix 4: Install QuickBooks in Selective Startup Mode

Third-party programs and services can interfere with the QuickBooks updates and Installation process. Selective Startup Mode disables these programs temporarily will lets QuickBooks install properly.

Follow these steps to install QuickBooks in the selective Startup mode:

• Once you have a company file backup, press the Windows + R keys to open the Run window.
• Type MSConfig here, then hit Enter or select OK.
• Additionally, choose Selective Startup and Load System Services under the General tab.
• Select “Hide all Microsoft services” under the services tab.
• Uncheck the box labelled “Hide all Microsoft services” and choose “Disable all.”
• Select the Windows Installer box from the list of services that appears, then click OK.
• In the system configuration window, select Restart.
• Using the Control Panel and the Intuit website, you may now install and download QuickBooks Desktop clean by deleting and reinstalling the program. After the uninstallation process is complete, a clean install tool can also be used.

The following actions can be made to return to the standard mode:

• Type MSConfig into the search bar of the Run window.
• Press Enter, then from the General tab, choose Normal Startup.
• To make the changes take effect, click OK and restart your computer.

Fix 5: Upgrade Chrome

An outdated Chrome browser can interfere with QuickBooks updates, especially if Chrome settings conflict with Internet Explorer. Keeping Chrome updated prevents these conflicts.

• Launch Google Chrome on your computer to get started.
• Select More from the menu at the top.
• Click the Update Google Chrome button now.
• Allow the browser to update, then restart the program to observe the modifications.

Fix 6: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub

QuickBooks Tool Hub contains powerful diagnostic and repair tools designed to fix QuickBooks issues. This tool detects and fixes issues automatically that would normally take hours with manual troubleshooting. You must accomplish the following:

• Get the QuickBooks Tool Hub file from an approved, reputable source.
• After that, save the file to the location of your choice by going to your downloads folder. The QuickBooksToolHub.exe file must then be accessed in order to start the system’s installation.
• To ensure smooth operation, accept all terms, conditions, license agreements, etc.
• The QuickBooks Tool Hub will then open.
• Go to the tab for Program Issues.
• To resolve problems with the program files, choose the Quick Fix My Program tool.

Other solutions, such as Quick Fix My File, QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool, QuickBooks File Doctor, etc., are available to fix a variety of difficulties in other parts, such as Network issues, Company File issues, Installation issues, etc. Thus, operate them as needed and maintain constant updates.

Fix 7: Update QuickBooks

Running an outdated QuickBooks version often causes Error 12002, as older versions may not support new security protocols. Updating to the latest release solves compatibility issues.

Here are the steps to update QuickBooks to fix the QuickBooks error 12002:

• The user must first select an internet connection setup by going to the assistance option.
• Then, when this application connects to the internet, use my system’s internet connection settings to create a connection.
• Select the following tab.
• Next, follow these procedures to update QuickBooks once more:
  • The file tab should be chosen first, followed by the update tab.
  • For QuickBooks 2006 and older, select the Update Now tab.
  • Select the file and update tab now.
  • For QuickBooks 2008 and later, select the Update Now tab.

Fix 8: Adjust update settings in Internet Options

When update settings get corrupted or misconfigured, resetting them clears the problem. This method is helpful when using QuickBooks, which keeps failing at the same point during updates.

The following are the steps to adjust the update settings in Internet Options:

• The Update Now tab should be selected first.
• Selecting the Reset Update Checkbox is the next step.
• Click the “Get Updates” tab now. If the updates don’t work, the user can proceed with the following steps:
• The advanced options tab must be clicked first.
• The Use TLS 1.0, USE TLS 1.1, and Use TLS 1.2 options should then be visible.
• Additionally, ensure the Use TLS 1.0 option is selected, and the other two are left unchecked.
• This would partially resolve the problem by resetting the Internet Options’ update settings.

Fix 9: Make the system compliant by using TLS 1.2

Any connections from QBDT to access Intuit services must meet the security and stability standards specified in TLS 1.2. The QB payroll is one of the services that will be impacted if these requirements are unmet. The following procedures must be followed to upgrade your system to TLS 1.2 compliance and download the TLS 1.2 Readiness tool.

• Start by downloading and installing the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub on your PC.
• To enable the TLS 1.2 tool, navigate to the Installation Issues section in the window’s lower right corner and select QuickBooks TLS 1.2.
• After choosing the TLS tool and verifying the EULA, press Run.
• Finally, after the TLS tool has been closed, click the exit button to exit the tool.

Fix 10: Reset Microsoft Edge settings

Microsoft Edge settings can interfere with QuickBooks updates, especially if you use Edge as your primary browser. Verify your security levels and TLS settings in Edge to ensure they are compatible with QuickBooks.

Set Balanced Browsing Mode

• To access the privacy, search, and services choices, click Settings and More, then select Settings.
• If the “Enhance your security on the web” option is selected under the Security menu, select Balanced as your browsing mode.

Read More: How To Update Or Change Email In QuickBooks Desktop

Review the TLS Setup 

• From the Start Menu, select Internet Options. Then, select the Advanced tab and go to the Security section.
• Uncheck the Use TLS 1.1 and Use TLS 1.0 checkboxes and check the Use TLS 1.2 checkboxes.
• Additionally, click OK, exit, and relaunch Microsoft Edge.

Once the Microsoft Edge settings are set up, download the payroll and QB updates and see how the error progresses. If you are still experiencing it, follow the instructions for the next method to resolve QuickBooks payroll update problem 12002. After creating an inbound rule, use the identical procedures to establish an outbound rule.

Fix 11: Verify date and time settings

An incorrect date and time can cause authentication failures when QuickBooks tries to connect to Intuit servers. The server rejects connections with wrong timestamps, triggering Error 12002.

Users may be able to download QuickBooks’ most recent payroll updates if their date and time settings need to be corrected. As a result, you need to configure your computer to display the correct time and date in the way described below:

• On a Windows computer, open My Computer, choose the Control Panel tab, and then navigate to the relevant time and language settings.
• Furthermore, use the Date & Time option to right-click it and change the date and time. Then, click the Apply button. 

After that, see whether you can download the QB updates. If not, follow the steps in solution 14 below if QuickBooks Desktop problem 12002 continues to occur.

Fix 12: Use the verify/rebuild data tool

The QuickBooks update error 12002 can be caused by problems with corporate file data, including data damage or compromised data integrity. You can use the Verify and Rebuild Data tool to determine whether integrity issues are present in the data and then rebuild it.

Fix 13: Check Firewall settings

The update process could be improved if your Windows firewall ports or antivirus software put up obstacles, such as preventing QB from accessing the internet. Before executing the updates, you must adjust the Windows firewall settings and clear the blockages. However, if you cannot fix QuickBooks issue 12002 even after completing the firewall settings, proceed to the following method.

Pre-Checks Before Fixing QuickBooks Error 12002

Before jumping into the fixes, we always recommend that users complete these essential pre-checks. This makes troubleshooting much more seamless and helps you to avoid unnecessary complications.

• Verify Internet Connection Stability: Open your web browser and visit different websites to confirm that your internet is working properly. You can also run a speed check if you have adequate bandwidth for downloading QuickBooks updates. 
• Check QuickBooks Version: Press F2 on your keyboard to open the product information Window. Note your current version and release number. Comparte with the latest version on the Intuit website. 
• Confirm Active Payroll Subscription: Verify that your payroll subscription is “Active” and hasn’t expired. An inactive subscription can prevent updates from downloading. 
• Close All Running Programs: Shut down all the other applications that are running on your computer, especially browsers, security software, and VPNs. This prevents software conflicts during troubleshooting. 
• Back Up Company File: Create a complete backup of your QuickBooks company file before you apply any fixes. 
• Note License and Product Information: Press the F2 key on your keyboard and open the product information window. From there, note your QuickBooks license number, which you may need during the repair process.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error 12002?

Preventative measures are the proactive method that will save your time and guarantee seamless use of QuickBooks software. These practises will help you avoid interference with your workflow by Error 12002.

• Make sure you have the latest version of QuickBooks software and enable QuickBooks automatic update settings.
• Use a high-speed network connection when using QuickBooks.
• Set Internet Explorer as your default browser.
• Turn on Internet Explorer TLS 1.2 to establish secure communication with Intuit servers.
• Include antivirus and firewall exception lists to add QuickBooks programs.
• Do not use a VPN or proxy server to update QuickBooks.
• Regularly perform system maintenance, defragmentation, Windows update and disk cleanup.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Error 12002?

You should reach out to our professional support team immediately if Error 12002 persists even after you have tried all the basic troubleshooting. Contact us:

• Updates fail repeatedly, no matter what you have tried. 
• QuickBooks keeps crashing during the payroll update process. 
• When firewall configuration or network issues don’t resolve the error. 
• If the error affects the accuracy of your financial data or disrupts your business operations. 
• If you have any confusion with the troubleshooting steps.

Our expert team has resolved hundreds of error cases and can help you quickly identify the exact causes and get your payroll back on track.

Conclusion

Follow the instructions in the blog to fix QuickBooks Error 12002. If it is not fixed for any reason or if you are uncomfortable following the troubleshooting instructions, you can contact us at our direct helpline number, +1 (844)-214-9614, and one of our qualified specialists will handle the error for you.