Problem Overview
This error occurs when security software, firewall settings, or internet security configurations block QuickBooks from communicating with Intuit's payroll servers. This prevents critical payroll updates, tax table downloads, and compliance information from being received.
Common Symptoms
- Payroll updates fail to download
- Tax table updates blocked
- SSL/TLS connection errors
- Security software warnings
- Network connection timeouts
Security Components
- Windows Firewall settings
- Third-party antivirus software
- Browser security settings
- SSL certificate validation
- Proxy server configurations
Quick Resolution
- Configure firewall exceptions
- Add QuickBooks to antivirus exclusions
- Adjust internet security settings
- Temporarily disable security software
- Use QuickBooks Tool Hub
Security Configuration Warning
Important: Blocked payroll updates can lead to compliance issues, incorrect tax calculations, and payroll processing failures. Address security settings immediately.
Firewall Blocks
Windows or third-party firewall restrictions
Antivirus Interference
Real-time scanning blocking connections
SSL Issues
Certificate validation or encryption blocks
Network Security
Proxy servers or network policies
Step-by-Step Solution
Add QuickBooks exceptions to Windows Firewall to allow payroll update communications.
- Open Windows Security > Firewall & network protection
- Click Allow an app through firewall
- Click Change settings (admin rights required)
- Find QuickBooks in the list or click Allow another app
- Browse to C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks\
- Select QBW32.EXE and QBUpdate.exe
- Check both Private and Public boxes
// QuickBooks firewall exceptions needed:
QBW32.EXE - Main program
QBUpdate.exe - Update engine
QBPOSSDKService.exe - Payroll services
QBDBMgrN.exe - Database manager
Ports: 443, 56728, 8019
Add QuickBooks to your security software's exclusion or whitelist to prevent blocking.
- Open your antivirus/security software
- Find Exclusions, Whitelist, or Allowed apps
- Add these QuickBooks folders to exclusions:
- C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks\
- C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks\
- C:\Users\[Username]\Documents\QuickBooks\
- Add these processes: QBW32.EXE, QBUpdate.exe
Note: Common security software includes Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, Kaspersky, Avast, AVG, and Windows Defender. Each has slightly different exclusion settings.
QuickBooks uses Internet Explorer security settings even if you use other browsers.
- Open Internet Explorer (even if you don't use it)
- Click the Tools gear icon > Internet Options
- Go to the Security tab
- Select Trusted sites and click Sites
- Add these URLs (uncheck "Require server verification" if needed):
- https://*.intuit.com
- https://payroll.intuit.com
- Click Close and OK
Success Tip: Even if you use Chrome, Firefox, or Edge, QuickBooks still relies on Internet Explorer's security settings for certain update and payroll functions.
Test if security software is causing the block by temporarily disabling it.
- Save your work and close all applications
- Open your security software control panel
- Find the option to temporarily disable protection
- Disable real-time scanning and firewall protection
- Attempt the payroll update in QuickBooks
- If successful, re-enable protection and configure proper exclusions
- If unsuccessful, the issue may be network or server-related
Security Warning: Only disable security software temporarily and ensure you're on a trusted network. Never leave your computer unprotected. Re-enable immediately after testing.
The QuickBooks Tool Hub includes specialized tools for resolving network and security issues.
- Download and run QuickBooks Tool Hub as Administrator
- Go to the Network Issues tab
- Click Reset Network Settings
- Run Windows Registry Permissions tool
- Use QuickBooks Database Server Manager
- Restart your computer and test payroll updates
Success Tip: The Network Issues tab can automatically configure many security and network settings that might be blocking payroll updates, including resetting Windows Socket settings and clearing DNS cache.
Security Configuration Guide
Firewall Configuration
Windows Firewall rules, third-party firewall settings, port exceptions, and application permissions for payroll services.
Antivirus Management
Real-time scanning exclusions, trusted application lists, folder exceptions, and heuristic scanning adjustments.
Browser Security
Internet Explorer settings, trusted sites, SSL configurations, and security zone settings affecting QuickBooks.
Network Security
Proxy configurations, network policies, SSL inspection, and enterprise security settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does QuickBooks need special security settings when other apps work fine?
QuickBooks has unique security requirements because it: 1) Transmits sensitive financial and payroll data, 2) Uses multiple communication methods (HTTP, HTTPS, specific ports), 3) Requires constant updates for tax compliance, 4) Uses both online and desktop components, 5) Interacts with banking and payroll systems that have strict security protocols. Other applications may use simpler, more standard communication methods that aren't as heavily restricted.
Can I permanently disable security software for QuickBooks?
No, permanent disabling is not recommended and creates significant security risks. Instead: 1) Configure proper exclusions for QuickBooks folders and processes, 2) Add Intuit domains to trusted sites, 3) Create specific firewall rules, 4) Adjust real-time scanning sensitivity, 5) Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to automate proper configuration. Proper configuration provides both security and functionality.
What if I'm on a corporate network with strict security policies?
On corporate networks: 1) Contact your IT department for assistance, 2) Provide them with QuickBooks' required ports and domains, 3) Request exceptions for QuickBooks processes, 4) Ask about proxy server configurations, 5) Inquire about SSL inspection policies that might block updates. Corporate environments often have additional layers of security (web filters, application control, network policies) that require IT department configuration.
How can I prevent security settings from blocking updates after Windows updates?
Windows updates can reset security settings. To prevent this: 1) Document your QuickBooks security configurations, 2) Use group policies if available to enforce settings, 3) Create backup copies of your firewall rules, 4) Check security settings after major Windows updates, 5) Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to quickly reset network settings if needed, 6) Consider creating a batch file or script to reapply settings if frequently reset.