QuickBooks error 12031 is one of the 12XXX series errors that can arise when you try to update QuickBooks Desktop or payroll.
This is what the error message might look like:
“Error 12031: A network timeout that is preventing QuickBooks from accessing the server.
Solution”
There could be various reasons that can give way to the QuickBooks error codes 12000, 12002, 12007, 12031, 12009, and 12029. This is why there are multiple steps to troubleshoot this QuickBooks update error.
In this guide, we will look at such reasons and solutions in detail and help you get rid of QuickBooks Desktop error 12031 and resume your work.
| However, it is better to connect with an expert who will provide you with real-time assistance for a faster resolution. Dial 1(800) 780-3064 and speak to a QB expert now! |
Possible Reasons for QuickBooks Errors – 12009, 12031, 12007, etc.
Let us look at common reasons why you see 12000 series errors like QuickBooks error 12031 and 12009 when downloading payroll and software updates in QuickBooks Desktop.
- QuickBooks Desktop might not be able to connect to the internet.
- The internet or browser settings are incorrect.
- Windows Firewall or antivirus doesn’t allow QuickBooks to connect to the internet.
- The internet connection is slow or unstable.
A Stepwise Guide to Fix QuickBooks Error 12031, 12009, 12007 (All 12000 Series)
Now let us see how to resolve the QB Desktop error of the 12000 series – 12000, 2002, 12007, 12009, 12029, 12031, etc. Follow all the instructions given here in the order they are provided, and if you have a query, reach out to us.
1. Check the Box to Reset QuickBooks Updates
When downloading and installing QuickBooks updates, there is a box to reset the earlier updates.
If the QuickBooks update error 12031 is due to an earlier update, this will fix that. However, if you still find an issue while updating QB, move to the next solution.
2. Check the Internet Connectivity
QuickBooks needs Microsoft Edge or Internet Explorer to connect to the internet. Therefore, check and ensure that it is the default browser.
- Download QuickBooks Tool Hub from HERE and run it.
- Go to the Installation Issues tab and select the QuickBooks TLS 1.2 Tool at the bottom right corner.
- Now, check if you can open other secure websites in your browser, such as your bank’s or credit card’s website.
If you cannot open secure websites outside of QuickBooks as well, you need to connect to an IT expert.
However, if you can open the secure websites on your browser, open QB Desktop and run the updates again to check if QuickBooks error 12031 is resolved.
3. Verify Internet Settings
You might get the QuickBooks error 12031 when downloading software or payroll updates owing to incorrect internet settings.
Let us check the internet settings and ensure they are correct.
- Exit QuickBooks Desktop.
- Launch the Start menu and type in Internet Options.
- Open Internet Options.
- Go to the Security tab and choose the Globe icon.
- Check and make sure the security level is set to Medium-high or lower than that.
- Go to the Connections tab and:
- If you do not use the dial-up node (DUN), choose Never Dial a Connection
- Choose the correct ISP if you do.
- Tap OK.
- Choose LAN Settings and ensure the option to automatically detect settings is selected,
- Check whether the checkbox to Use a Proxy Server checkbox is clear.
- In case the checkbox to Use a Proxy Server is chosen, note down the complete address and port.
- In case the port is other than port 80, do not unmark the checkbox to Use a Proxy Server.
- In case the port is port 80, you can unmark the checkbox to test.
- Choose Ok.
- Go to the Advanced tab and click on Restore Advanced Settings.
- In the Settings field, find the option to Use TLS 1.2 and ensure it is chosen.
(These options may not be in your Windows version.)
- Choose OK.
- Close Internet Options and restart the PC.
Sign into Windows as administrator and download QuickBooks updates. If you see QuickBooks error 12031, move to the next step.
4. Run QB File Doctor to Check Network Issues
Apart from checking the company file, QuickBooks File Doctor can also check and fix the network issues.
However, to run QB File Doctor, you will need to install QuickBooks Tool Hub on your computer.
- Now, launch QB Tool Hub.
- Go to the Company File Issues tab.
- Click on Run QuickBooks File Doctor. It might take a while for the File Doctor to open. However, if the File Doctor doesn’t open for several minutes, you can search it on the Start menu and open it from there.
- When QB File Doctor opens, choose the company file. If you don’t find your company file, choose Browse and search and locate and select the company file.
- Now, tap the option to Check your file and network.
- Choose Continue.
- When asked for the QB admin password, enter it.
- Finally, click Next.
It might take 3 to 5 minutes to scan, depending on the company file size. QuickBooks might say the scan was unsuccessful even if the issue might be resolved.
Therefore, once the scan finishes, launch QuickBooks Desktop and sign into your company file. However, if you get QuickBooks error code 12031, let us configure the firewall manually.
5. Set Up Firewall Manually
Often, you would need to configure Windows Firewall manually and create port exceptions for QuickBooks programs.
This will ensure QuickBooks programs are allowed access to run in the foreground and background and connect to the Internet.
6. Verify Antivirus and Security Settings
If you continue to get a QuickBooks update error, you must check and ensure whether a security software or a third party application is interfering with QuickBooks.
You can disable the antivirus program and then run QuickBooks updates. If this doesn’t resolve QuickBooks error 12031, move to the next solution.
7. Reinstall QuickBooks Updates in Selective Startup
Selective startup boots the computer with selected programs so that you can install QuickBooks updates without a problem.
Therefore, switch to selective startup and install QuickBooks updates.
Here is how you can switch to Selective Startup in Windows.
- Press the Windows + R keys to launch the Run command.
- Type in msconfig and then hit Enter.
- Go to the General tab, choose Selective startup, and Load system services.
- From the Services tab, then choose Hide all Microsoft Services.
- Choose Disable All.
- De-select the checkbox to Hide all Microsoft services.
- Now, tap on Windows Installer from the list of services.
- Choose OK.
- Choose Restart from the System Configuration window.
This will take you to Selective Startup. Now, reattempt to install QuickBooks Desktop updates and check if QuickBooks error 12031 is resolved.
Wrapping It Up
This was all on how to resolve QuickBooks error 12031 and download software and payroll updates. However, if the issue continues or you need an expert’s assistance, dial 1(800) 780-3064. This will connect you to a QB expert who will help you eliminate such errors.
Connect with a QB expert right now!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can’t I update my QuickBooks software or payroll?
You may find an issue in updating QuickBooks software or payroll if the internet settings are incorrect or the firewall or antivirus is blocking QuickBooks. In this guide, learn how to update QuickBooks without an error.
Why is my bank account not connecting to QuickBooks?
You might not be able to connect the bank account to QuickBooks if the bank is not a participating bank. Other reasons can be that the bank is having system maintenance or that the banks have multiple names on our list. You can check and select the correct one or attempt to connect to all possible bank URLs.
What is error code C 21 in QuickBooks?
You might see QuickBooks error C 21 when you try to close the file and the software thinks a transaction is being recorded. However, the glitch is that there is no transaction being recorded at the moment.
How do I fix error 15271 in QuickBooks?
If you get a QuickBooks error 15271 when updating the payroll, attempt the download as an administrator. You can also run Quick Fix my Program from the QuickBooks Tool Hub to resolve the issue. If this doesn’t fix it, repair the QuickBooks program and installation.
Gabby Taylor, combines financial expertise with literary prowess. With over a decade in finance, she crafts insightful narratives on navigating fiscal complexities