QuickBooks Error 12029 | Causes, Symptoms & Methods To Fix

QuickBooks Error 12029 is a network Timeout error that is normally experienced when QuickBooks is unable to obtain an IP address. Many users experience this error when they try to update the QuickBooks software or payroll. The most frequent causes leading to this error are: blocked ports, poor internet connection, inappropriate settings of the SSL, and interference by the firewall. The error 12029 occurs when our system fails to communicate with the backend servers within a given time. This detailed guide will explain to you all the common causes, prevention steps, solutions, and more, so read till the end. 

What is QuickBooks Error 12029?

Have you ever faced QuickBooks Error 12029 due to a network timeout issue? When it happens, QuickBooks basically can’t connect to the update server. This error text pops up when your system fails to detect your IP address properly. There are a few things that can cause this error, including poor internet connection, blocked ports, or incorrect SSL settings. Due to this issue, the server is not able to respond quickly. It’s frustrating for the users as it cause interuption in payroll. 

You know what’s good? You can fix it easily. Follow the fixes given below or seek professional help if needed. Most of the time, the basic fixes can bring QuickBooks back on track.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 12029

Understanding the root causes assists in applying the right solution. In general, there are two main reasons behind this error: external (network-related) and internal (system or software-related).

External Causes

External causes of Error 12029 include network configuration or security restriction issues outside the QuickBooks software. 

• Internet Explorer Not Set as Default Browser: QuickBooks functionality depends on the Internet Explorer settings for the web-based services. When it is not specified as the default, it causes an update failure.
• Wrong SSL Settings: When the SSL 2.0 or 3.0 is turned off or configured incorrectly, QuickBooks is not able to connect with the server.
• Expired or Weak Network: A poor network connection can interrupt the connection with the server.
• Firewall or Antivirus Blocking QuickBooks: Security software on the computer can block the QuickBooks port from accessing update servers.

Internal Causes

Some of the internal problems leading to Error 12029 are the configuration of the system and QuickBooks itself.

• QuickBooks is Unable to Connect with the Internet: When QuickBooks fails to establish a connection with the system’s internet, it causes Error 12029.
• Blocked Server: In some cases, blocked server ports can interrupt QuickBooks from obtaining data.
• Timeout During Update: When the backend server fails to respond within a specific time frame, QuickBooks shows the error. 
• Outdated QuickBooks Version: When your QuickBooks software is not updated, compatibility issues trigger the Error. 

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 12029

Before getting into solutions just have a look at the symptoms of QuickBooks error 12029:

• Your system starts freezing.
• Internet connectivity is very bad.
• Windows start responding slowly to inputs like Mouse, and keyboard.
• The system turns off frequently.
• Not able to get access to the payroll update in QuickBooks.

Troubleshooting Methods to Fix QuickBooks Update Error 12029

Given below are some of the most appropriate methods that will surely help you in resolving this issue. So, let’s get started. 

Solution 1: Check Connectivity and Settings

This fix ensures that the Internet Explorer settings and network configuration are correctly aligned with QuickBooks update requirements: 

• Open your Internet Explorer and access safe websites such as www.google.com. 
• If you can access the website without any trouble, then proceed with the next steps. 
• Check your internet connection to locate misconfigurations. 
• Review your system’s time and date to ensure they are correct. 
• Open Internet Explorer→Click on Tools. 
• Choose the internet options. 
• Under the advanced tab, click on reset. 
• Go to the Apply and OK options repeatedly. 
• Run the update for QuickBooks Desktop and payroll. 
• Check if the error text is still showing or not.

Solution 2: Configure SSL Settings

Incorrect configuration may trigger Error 12029. SSL settings secure communication between QuickBooks and the update server.  

• • Check that the use of SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0 is verified. 
  • Click on Connect and then OK. 
  • Close the QuickBooks desktop and restart it. 
  • Navigate to the Help menu and click on Update Now. 
  • Open Internet Explorer Browser.

• Go to Tools and select Internet Options. 
• Go to the advanced tab. 
• From the security option, select the SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0 checkboxes. 
• Click Apply, then OK to close the Window. 
• Check whether the issue has been resolved. 

Solution 3: Run the System As an Administrator 

Running QuickBooks with administrative rights allows it to access restricted system files and network permissions.

• To initiate, click on the Start button in the bottom left of the Display screen.
• Now, go to the search field and type Command in it. 
• When the Command Prompt option is visible on the screen, right-click on it and choose the option Run as Administrator.

• After that, the user has to return to the start button, go to the All Programs option and then choose the Accessories option.
• Inside the Accessories, select the System tool and then go to the System Restore option.
• Now, after the above step, the user has to choose the Restore My Computer to an Earlier Time option and then hit on the Next button.

• After that, a list will open up on the screen, choose the System Restore point option and then click on the Next button.
• Through these steps, a confirmation window will pop up on the screen. Click on the Next button there.

• Finally, the user needs to open QuickBooks and verify whether the QuickBooks update error 12029 has been resolved or not.

If the error still misbehaves with the updating process, then the user is recommended to try the next method to resolve it.

Read More: Resolved the QuickBooks Update Error Code 15223 – Best Solutions

Solution 4:  Update Internet Explorer

QuickBooks relies strongly on Internet Explorer components. Updating it ensures compatibility with update servers.

• Go to the Browser and click on the Tools option 
• Inside the Tools, choose the Internet option 
• After that, go to the Security tab, and click on the Globe Icon there to set Medium-high for the security setting.
• Now the user has to click on the content button to disable the content advisor.
• After the above steps, choose the connection tab and select the Never Dial a Connection option.  

• Now that you have completed the above instructions, go to the LAN settings and check the box beside the automatically detect setting option.
• If Port 80 is shown in the port section, make sure to check the proxy checker
• Now, click Ok on the LAN setting screen
• After that, go to the Advanced Tab and check the boxes beside the Use TLS 1.0, Use TLS 1.1, and Use TLS 1.2 options.

• At last, just click on the Ok button and close the internet option window.
• After that, the user has to restart the Computer and QuickBooks.
• Now, update QuickBooks to check whether the QuickBooks payroll update error 12029 persists or not.

Solution 5: Examine Security Settings (Antivirus and Firewall)

Antivirus or Firewall may block QuickBooks ports. Adjusting settings or using QuickBooks File Doctor can fix this issue.

• Visit the website and download the QuickBooks file doctor tool. 
• Save the tool and run it. 
• This tool will automatically configure the Firewall and open blocked ports. 
• Check if the issue continues. 

Solution 6: Update QuickBooks Security Certificate

Installing the latest security certificate can help to authenticate communication between QuickBooks files and the server. 

• Open the QuickBooks Desktop and then click on the QuickBooks icon. 
• Go to the Properties tab. 
• Under the Shortcut tab, click on the Open File location→Click on the OK button. 
• Right-click on the QuickBooks.exe file→ Click Properties. 
• Select QuickBooks from the list→Click Details under the Digital Signatures tab.
• Next, click on the View Certificate. 
• Go to the General tab and click on Install Certificate. 
• Open the certificate import wizard window→Set the current user as the store location 
• Click Next. 
• Click on Next again →click on the Finish tab. 
• Tap on the OK button to end the process. 
•  

Solution 7: Re-Configure QuickBooks Payroll

Reconfiguring payroll resets update settings and refreshes the server communication. 

• • Start by unplugging the wireless router and waiting for a few minutes. 
  • Then turn on the wireless router and check the network speed now. 
  • Next, open QuickBooks and then open the Company file. 
  • Press the Ctrl+K keys on your keyboard. 
  • Choose the Edit option. 
  • Uncheck the open payroll setup. 
  • Payroll update will continue on its own; wait until the process ends. 

Solution 8: Open Windows in Safe Mode

Switching to Safe Mode disables all the unnecessary programs that may interfere with the QuickBooks update.

• Press the Windows+1 key on your keyboard. 
• Navigate to security and update. 
• Next, click on the same. 
• Go to the Recovery option and switch to advanced startup. 
• Follow the on-screen instructions and then reboot the system. 
• Restart the system→press the F8 key on your keyboard repeatedly to review the options to open the system in safe mode. 

Read More: QuickBooks License Error After Clone- Troubleshooting Guide

Solution 9: Authenticate Internet Connectivity

Sometimes, when you run your system with the wrong date and time, this can cause an error. Verify your internet connection and system date/time to ensure they are properly configured. 

• • Right-click on the bottom right corner of the taskbar. 
  • Then click on Adjust date and time. 
  • Correct the time zone. 
  • Select your time zone and hit enter. 
  • Set the right time and click Enter. 
  • Re-open QuickBooks after completing this process. 

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error 12029? 

Preventive measures eliminate repeated interruptions in payroll updates. Some of the prevention measures that you can take into account are as follows:

• High Speed Internet: Ensure a high-speed internet connection when updating payroll.
• Default Internet Explorer: Configure Internet Explorer as the default browser.
• Maintain Windows: It is important to regularly update your Windows to make sure it is compatible.
• Check SSL: Check SSL (Secure Socket Layer) settings by checking that they are functioning correctly.
• Never Use Shared Network: Never use unstable Wi-Fi networks or public Wi-Fi networks.
• Check System Date and Time: Maintain a proper system date and time.
• Install Security Certificates: Install QuickBooks Security Certificates in a timely manner to ensure authenticity.
• Payroll Update: Payroll should always be updated to avoid back errors.

These steps will help to reduce the possibility of similar errors while updating payroll.

When Should You Seek Professional Help? 

Sometimes the error continues even after applying all the basic troubleshooting methods, it may indicate deeper server configuration issues. You should ask for professional help when: 

• Payroll services stop working completely. 
• QuickBooks update fails repeatedly. 
• Firewall configuration becomes complex. 
• The company files get damaged during the update. 
• If you have any confusion regarding the troubleshooting methods. 

Our expert team is trained to identify the root causes and offer a quick solution without risking data loss. 

Conclusion

So, these are all the impressive solutions that will help you in eradicating the error issue. We hope that you have now resolved all your queries regarding QuickBooks error 12029. Make sure to check out other articles as well. They will help you in developing a better understanding of QuickBooks. Also, you would diminish the future probability of any QuickBooks issue.