How to Fix QuickBooks Error 15101 (While Updating Payroll)

QuickBooks Error 15101 occurs while updating QuickBooks Payroll, often due to issues with the internet connection required to download updates. This error affects updating features, payroll, and bank feeds in QuickBooks Desktop. Classified under the 15XXX series of errors, Error Code 15101 specifically appears when downloading payroll updates to access the latest tax tables fails. Follow the steps below to resolve QuickBooks Error 15101 quickly.

What is QuickBooks Error 15101?

QuickBooks Error 15101 is part of the 15XXX series and occurs when attempting to update the QuickBooks Desktop program. This error typically arises due to a missing or outdated digital signature certificate. It can cause the system to stop working and disrupt workflows. The error may also occur due to internet connection issues or security settings blocking the updates.

This article outlines the common causes and simple solutions to resolve the issue with minimal effort and time. Keep reading to fix the problem quickly and efficiently.

This error is part of the 15XXX Series Errors, but its solutions are different. Users should follow the 6 steps one by one until the issue is resolved. Let’s go through these solutions.

Solution 1: Install the Digital Signature Certificate

Kindly know if you are following this troubleshooting step, please ensure to get a quick backup of the company file data to ignore unfortunate data loss.

1. Navigate to C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks and locate the QBW32.EXE file.
   • (If you cannot find the file, type “QBW32.EXE” in the search bar under the Start menu.)
2. Right-click on the QBW32.EXE file and select Properties.
3. Go to the Digital Signature tab. Ensure that Intuit, Inc. is selected in the signature list, then click Details.
4. In the Digital Signature Details window, select View Certificate.
5. Click Install Certificate in the Certificate window.
6. Continue clicking Next until the Finish button appears, then click Finish.
7. Restart your computer.
8. Open QuickBooks and download the product updates.

Solution 2: Run QuickBooks Reboot.bat File

1. Exit QuickBooks Desktop.
2. Right-click the QuickBooks icon, select Properties, and then click Open File Location.
3. In the file location, search for Reboot.bat. Right-click on it and select Run as Administrator.
4. The QB files command prompt will appear. Wait for the Reboot.bat file to complete the QuickBooks services repair process. (Note: Do not close the command prompt window; it will close automatically when done.)
5. Open QuickBooks and start the payroll process again.

If you are again receiving the same error after initiating payroll update, switch to the next solution mentioned below:

Solution 3: Configure Internet Explorer as the Default Browser

• You need to first open the Internet Explorer from the desktop
• From the top right corner, Click on the Tools or the Gear icon
• Once done, Hit on the Internet Options and scroll to the Programs tab and opt for the “Make Default Internet Explorer the default browser“.

• Now, Press OK to save the applied changes.

Solution 4: Modify the Firewall Settings

The firewall is usually the common reason for a barrier in the proper functioning of QuickBooks. User is required to configure the firewall settings accurately to combat this issue.

• Go to the Internet Browser and select Internet options and proceed to the advanced tab.
• Now in this step, Choose the the settings of TLS and SSL as per the screen shot shared above.

Solution 5: Reinstall QuickBooks in Safe Mode

Start working in the safe mode to avoid attacks from the virus, malware, or any outside threat. The safe mode will also help you to do the task independently without any interference from the attacks.

• Firstly, Reboot Windows and hit on the F8 key multiple times to display the Safe Boot options.

• Once the safe boot options are displayed on your screen, select Safe Mode
• Press Enter key to boot in safe mode.
• In this step, Select Windows + R keys together and type in appwiz.cpl.

• Again, Press Enter key and double-click on QuickBooks Desktop icon from the list
• Follow the instructions to Uninstall QuickBooks.
• Go tothe QuickBooks Product Download page and download the QuickBooks Setup File
• Go to the Download section of your PC and download the QuickBooks setup file from there.
• Follow the given instructions and complete the Product Registration Process
• Now Update QuickBooks Payroll again and check if the issue has been fixed

Solution 6: Restart QBConnector.exe Process

Users can also try to restart QuickBooks Web Connector, by following the below-stated steps:

• Firstly, Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc keys altogether and open up the Task Manager.
• Secondly, Find out QBConnector.exe under the Processes tab

In this step, click right on it and select the End Process option and thereafter reboot QuickBooks.

Why QuickBooks Encounters Error 15101 Occurs?

Here are the common reasons why QuickBooks encounters Error 15101:

1. Missing or Outdated Digital Signature Certificate: The digital signature required for secure updates is either missing or not updated.
2. Internet Connection Issues: Unstable or no internet connection prevents QuickBooks from downloading updates.
3. Security Settings Blocking Updates: Firewall or antivirus settings may block the update process.
4. Incorrect Internet Explorer Configuration: Misconfigured settings in Internet Explorer can interfere with updates.
5. Corrupt QuickBooks Installation: A damaged QuickBooks installation may lead to update errors.

Aftermath of QuickBooks Error 15101

You might face the following symptoms that are difficult to handle when QuickBooks Error Message 15101 displays on the screen:

1. The payroll update process is interrupted.
2. Windows OS starts running slowly.
3. Keyboard and mouse respond slowly to inputs.
4. Frequent system crashes, hangs, or issues with active applications may occur.

Make a backup of your company file and go directly to the QuickBooks payroll update error 15101 troubleshooting section if you want to prevent these situations.

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