How to Fix QuickBooks Online Error 163?

QuickBooks Error 163 is a common issue that typically occurs during software updates, data synchronization, or when the program fails to connect with Intuit’s servers. This error usually stems from a network timeout, firewall restriction, incomplete installation, or outdated software. Users may encounter messages like “Unable to complete update” or experience frozen update screens. The root causes often include unstable internet connections, blocked ports, damaged program files, or interference from antivirus/firewall settings.

To fix Error 163, begin by ensuring a stable internet connection and updating both QuickBooks and your operating system. Run QuickBooks as an administrator and temporarily disable firewall or antivirus software if necessary. Use the QuickBooks Tool Hub to run the Quick Fix My Program and Network Diagnostics tools. Clearing DNS cache and resetting internet settings can also help. Manual updates are recommended if automatic updates fail. To prevent this error, regularly update your software, configure firewall settings to allow QuickBooks connections, and avoid running multiple installations simultaneously. Identifying and addressing these areas early can ensure smoother performance and prevent recurring update issues.

Method 1: Open Online Banking in Incognito Mode

Use private browsing to prevent cached data or extensions from affecting the connection process.

• Click the three dots in the top-right corner. Select “New Incognito Window”.
• Or press Ctrl + Shift + N on Windows or Command + Shift + N on Mac.

Next, connect to your bank:

1. Sign in to QuickBooks Online.
2. Go to the Banking menu on the left.
3. On the Banking tab, click the pencil icon to edit the account.
4. Select Edit sign-in info next to your bank account.
5. Enter the correct login details for your bank.
6. After login succeeds, save the updated credentials.
7. Try updating the transactions again.

Check if bank transactions download correctly and if Intuit Error 163 is resolved. If the error remains, move to the next solution.

Method 2: Clear Cache Memory in Your Desktop Browser

Clearing your browser cache can help resolve issues caused by outdated or corrupted data. Follow these steps for different browsers:

Google Chrome:

1. Type chrome://settings/clearBrowserData in the address bar and press Enter.
2. In the “Clear browsing data” window, click Advanced.
3. Select the following:
   • Browsing history
   • Download history
   • Cookies and other site data
   • Cached images and files
4. From the Time range drop-down, select All time.
5. Click Clear data.
6. Close the browser.

Mozilla Firefox:

1. Click History from the top menu and select Clear Recent History.
   • Press Alt if the menu bar is hidden.
2. From the Time range to clear drop-down, select Everything.
3. Click the arrow next to Details and select all items.
4. Click Clear Now.
5. Exit the browser.

Internet Explorer:

1. Click Tools > Safety > Delete browsing history.
   • Press Alt to show the menu bar if it’s hidden.
2. Uncheck Preserve Favorites website data.
3. Check the boxes for:
   • Temporary Internet files
   • Cookies
   • History
4. Click Delete.
5. Once deletion is complete, close the browser.

After clearing the cache, try reconnecting to QuickBooks and updating transactions again. 

Method 3: Manually Import Bank Transactions in QuickBooks

Manually importing bank transactions can help resolve update issues by directly uploading your bank data into QuickBooks.

1. Open QuickBooks Online.
2. Go to Banking > Transactions.
3. Click the account tile, then select Link account > Upload from file.
4. Click Browse and select the bank file.
5. Click Next, choose the QuickBooks account.
6. Match the file columns with QuickBooks fields.
7. Click Next, select transactions to import.
8. Click Next > Yes > Let’s go.

Note:

• File size must be under 350 KB.
• Split by date if the file is too large.
• Ensure the CSV file is properly formatted.

Method 4: Manually Download Transactions

Manually downloading transactions can help refresh your bank data in QuickBooks.

1. Go to Bookkeeping > Transactions > Bank transactions.
2. Click the Refresh button.

This updates all linked bank and credit card accounts. New transactions will appear once the download is complete.

Method 5: Check Your Bank’s Website

Check if the issue is from your bank’s side. The bank website might be down or under maintenance, which can trigger error 163 in QuickBooks. Sign in to the bank’s site using the same URL QuickBooks uses to confirm.

Follow these steps:

1. Open QuickBooks.
2. Go to Banking > Transactions > Bank transactions.
3. Click Link account (you don’t need to add one).
4. Search and select your bank.
5. Copy the listed URL for your bank.
6. Open that URL in your browser and sign in.

Sign-in success means you should check the following next:

• Any alerts, messages, or errors in your account.
• Display issues or slow loading.
• Notices about security changes.

Once everything is confirmed, return to QuickBooks and follow these steps:

1. Return to QuickBooks.
2. Go to Bookkeeping > Transactions > Bank transactions.
3. Click Refresh to update transactions.

Method 6: Disconnect and Reconnect Your Bank Account

Disconnecting and reconnecting your bank account can help fix errors related to syncing in QuickBooks.

1. Open QuickBooks Online.
2. Go to Banking, select the account with error 163.
3. Click the pencil icon > Edit account info > Disconnect this account, then click Save.
4. Log in to your bank’s website to confirm your login works.
5. Back in QuickBooks, go to Banking > Add account.
6. Select your bank, enter your login ID and password.
7. Complete verification and click Securely Connect.
8. Choose account type (Bank or Credit Card), then click Connect.

Method 7: Refresh Bank Transactions

Refreshing your bank transactions can help update the latest data in QuickBooks.

1. In QuickBooks, go to Bookkeeping > Transactions > Bank transactions.
2. Click the Refresh button.
3. Once updated, try importing the transactions again.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Online Error 163?

1. Use a stable and uninterrupted internet connection
2. Log in with administrative rights on your system
3. Ensure the operating system (Windows/macOS) is fully updated
4. Update QuickBooks to the latest version
5. Temporarily disable antivirus and firewall during troubleshooting
6. Close all background applications before starting the fix
7. Install the latest version of QuickBooks Tool Hub

How to Identify QuickBooks Online Error 163?

1. QuickBooks fails to complete updates or freezes during the update process
2. Error message appears: “Error 163 – Unable to complete update”
3. QuickBooks cannot connect to Intuit servers or sync online services
4. Bank feeds, payroll updates, or backups fail repeatedly
5. Slow or unresponsive performance during cloud-based tasks
6. Internet connection is active, but QuickBooks shows connectivity issues

How to Prevent QuickBooks Error 163?

1. Keep QuickBooks and your system updated
2. Use a stable internet connection
3. Add QuickBooks to firewall and antivirus exceptions
4. Don’t run multiple updates at once
5. Always run QuickBooks as an administrator
6. Use QuickBooks Tool Hub for regular checks
7. Restart your router regularly
8. Avoid using conflicting third-party apps

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Online Error 163?

You should seek professional help for QuickBooks Online Error 163 if the error persists after following all troubleshooting steps, including updating QuickBooks, checking your internet connection, adjusting firewall settings, and using the QuickBooks Tool Hub. Assistance is also recommended if you encounter repeated update failures, connectivity issues with Intuit servers, or if you’re unsure about editing system settings like DNS, firewall, or network configurations. Additionally, contact us if the error affects payroll, bank feeds, or company file access and you cannot resolve it on your own.