How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Error 15215: Unable to Verify Digital Signature

QuickBooks Error 15215 stops QuickBooks from downloading and installing updates. It happens when there is an issue with digital signature verification. This error often occurs during updates to the latest QuickBooks version or when downloading payroll updates, especially during maintenance or payroll changes.Common causes include antivirus or firewall software blocking QuickBooks from connecting to its update server, incorrect system date and time settings, poor internet connection, or corrupted QuickBooks installation files. It can also be triggered by restrictive Windows security settings that block QuickBooks from authenticating updates.

To fix this error, disable antivirus and firewall programs, check the system date and time, repair or reinstall QuickBooks, ensure a stable internet connection, and adjust your firewall to allow updates. You can also use QuickBooks’ built-in File Doctor tool to fix the issue.To prevent future errors, keep QuickBooks updated, configure antivirus and firewall programs to allow QuickBooks access, and regularly check your system settings. Follow the below 9 methods to prevent QuickBooks Desktop Error 15215.

Method 1: Reboot the System

Restarting your computer can help reset system processes and resolve QuickBooks Payroll issues. Follow these steps:

1. Restart your computer to reset system processes.
2. This forces the QuickBooks Payroll protection application to shut down or reset its settings.
3. Restarting may fix the issue, but if the error returns, take further action.
4. Check if any background programs are running.
5. Active programs may interfere with QuickBooks Payroll and cause the error.

Method 2: Run QuickBooks as a Windows Administrator

Running QuickBooks as a Windows Administrator gives it full control over Windows applications. This allows QuickBooks to access the necessary system resources for proper operation.

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Find the QuickBooks icon on the desktop.
3. Right-click it and select Run as Administrator.
4. Click Yes if prompted.

This grants QuickBooks full access to system resources for smooth operation.

Method 3: Enable TLS 1.0 and Disable TLS 1.1 & 1.2

Adjusting your Internet Explorer settings can help QuickBooks function properly. Follow these steps:

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Open Internet Explorer.
3. Click the Tools icon and select Internet Options.
4. Go to the Advanced tab.
5. Find Use TLS 1.0, Use TLS 1.1, and Use TLS 1.2 settings.
6. Make sure Use TLS 1.0 is checked.
7. Ensure Use TLS 1.1 and Use TLS 1.2 are unchecked.
8. Click OK to save changes and close the window.
9. Close Internet Explorer.
10. Restart your system and reopen QuickBooks.
11. Try downloading the QuickBooks update again.

Method 4: Restart the Windows in Selective Startup

Running Windows in Selective Startup can help identify software conflicts affecting QuickBooks. Follow these steps:

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Open the Run window:
   • Windows XP: Click Start > Run.
   • Windows 7 & Vista: Click Start > All Programs > Accessories > Run.
   • Windows 8 & 10: Press Windows + R.
3. Type msconfig and click OK.
4. In the System Configuration Utility, select Selective Startup and uncheck Load Startup Items.
5. Click OK and restart your computer.
6. Open QuickBooks and try updating the tax table.
7. After successful update, select Normal Startup, click OK, and restart your computer.
8. Visit Microsoft’s website for clean boot instructions if conflicts continue.

Method 5: Install Updates Manually

Manually updating QuickBooks ensures you have the latest fixes and features. Follow these steps:

1. Open Update QuickBooks.
2. Select the correct QuickBooks product.
3. Click Change, then choose your QuickBooks version.
4. Click Update and select a location to save the file.
5. Click Save to start the download.
6. Locate the downloaded file and double-click to install the update tab.
7. Restart your computer.
8. Open QuickBooks and check if the update is installed.

Method 6: Configure the firewall

Proper firewall settings help QuickBooks connect without interruptions. Follow these steps:

1. Open the Control Panel from the Start menu.
2. Click System and Security, then select Windows Firewall.
3. Choose View Large/Small Icons and select Windows Firewall.
4. Click Advanced Settings and select Inbound Rules on the left.
5. Right-click Inbound Rules and select New Rule.
6. Choose Port in the Rule Type section.
7. Select Specific Local Ports, enter the required ports, and click Next.
8. Choose Allow the Connection and click Next.
9. Select the Network Type, ensure all options are checked, and click Next.
10. Repeat these steps for Outbound Rules.

Method 7: Manual Update Installation 

Installing updates manually ensures QuickBooks runs smoothly. Follow these steps:

1. Open Update QuickBooks and select the correct product.
2. Click Change, choose the QuickBooks version, and select Update.
3. Choose a save location and click Save.
4. Find the downloaded file and double-click Install the Update.
5. Restart your computer.
6. Open QuickBooks and check for the update.

Method 8: Identify and Close the Conflicting Programs 

Closing interfering background programs can help resolve QuickBooks errors. Follow these steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Alt + Del and open Task Manager.
2. The Control Panel displays a list of active background programs.
3. Go to the Processes tab.
4. Select a running program and click End Process.
5. Repeat for each program and check if the error persists.

Method 9: Verify Internet Explorer Settings 

Correct Internet Explorer settings help QuickBooks connect properly. Follow these steps:

1. Close QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Open Internet Explorer and go to Tools > Internet Options.
3. Click the Advanced tab.
4. Under Settings, find Use TLS 1.0, Use TLS 1.1, and Use TLS 1.2.
5. Ensure Use TLS 1.0 is checked.
6. Make sure use TLS 1.1 and Use TLS 1.2 are unchecked.
7. Click OK and close Internet Explorer.
8. Restart your computer.
9. Open QuickBooks Desktop and try downloading the update again.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Desktop  Error 15215?

To fix QuickBooks Error 15215, ensure the following:

1. You need admin access to make changes.
2. A reliable connection is needed for updates.
3. Temporarily disable antivirus or firewall software, as they may block QuickBooks’ connection.
4. Set your system’s date and time correctly to avoid verification issues.
5. Create a backup of your QuickBooks data to prevent data loss.
6. Ensure QuickBooks is updated to the latest version.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Error 15215?

QuickBooks Error 15215 can be identified by these signs:

1. “Unable to verify the digital signature” or “Error 15215: QuickBooks could not verify the digital signature for the update file.”
2. QuickBooks update fails, stopping downloads or installations.
3. Limited access to QuickBooks or it stops working during the update.
4. A server error appears, showing issues connecting to the update server.

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error 15215?

To prevent QuickBooks Error 15215:

• Regularly update to the latest version.
• Add exceptions for QuickBooks to access the update server.
• Set your system’s date and time correctly.
• Ensure a reliable internet connection.
• Run system checks and repair QuickBooks.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Desktop Error 15215?

You should seek professional help for QuickBooks Error 15215 if you’ve tried all troubleshooting steps, such as disabling antivirus/firewall, checking the system date and time, and repairing QuickBooks, but the error persists. If the issue keeps recurring despite following the necessary fixes or if you’re unable to resolve it due to technical complexities, it’s time to consult our experts. If the error affects critical operations, such as payroll processing or accounting, and causes significant disruptions, professional assistance can help resolve the issue quickly and prevent data loss.