How to Fix QuickBooks Update Error 12045 (When Installing the Update)?

Latest Date: November 11, 2025

Error 12045 occurs when QuickBooks fails to download or install updates properly. It is usually caused by Internet connectivity issues, Incorrect date and time settings on your computer, Firewall or security software blocking QuickBooks from accessing update servers and Corrupt or incomplete installation of QuickBooks.

This error often appears as a pop-up message that interrupts your workflow, making it impossible to complete the update process. Given below are 6 effective solutions to fix QuickBooks Desktop Update Error 12045 when installing the update.

Solution 1: Check the System Date and Time Are Correct

Incorrect date and time settings on your computer can interfere with QuickBooks updates. To check and correct the settings:

  1. Click the date and time in the bottom right corner to check if it’s correct.
  2. If not, press Windows+R, type Control, and hit Enter.
  3. Go to Clock and Region > Date and Time > Change the Date and Time.
  4. Adjust the date, time, and time zone, then click OK.
  5. Close and reopen QuickBooks, then try installing the update again.

Solution 2: Check Internet Connection & Settings

A stable internet connection is essential for QuickBooks to download and install updates. Here’s how to check and adjust your internet settings:

  1. Test Your Internet Connection:
    • Open a web browser (e.g., Chrome, Firefox, Edge).
    • Visit Chase.com or any other website to ensure your internet connection is working.
    • If the website doesn’t load, there’s likely an issue with your connection. Contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for help.
    • If the website loads, your connection is fine. Proceed to the next steps.
  2. Set Up Internet Connection in QuickBooks Desktop:
    • Open QuickBooks Desktop.
    • From the top menu, go to Help > Internet Connection Setup.
    • Select Use my computer’s Internet connection settings to allow QuickBooks to connect to the internet.
    • Click Next.
    • In the next window, select Advanced Connection Settings.
    • On the Advanced tab, click Restore Advanced Settings.
    • Click OK, then Done.

Additional Tips to Improve Your Update Process:

  • Download Accelerators: If you use any download accelerators, disable them before attempting to download updates, as they can interfere with the process.
  • Dial-Up Connection: If you use dial-up internet, make sure your connection speed is at least 28.8 Kbps (kilobits per second) for a stable update download.
  • Using AOL: If you’re using AOL, log in with your primary account and ensure Parental Controls are turned off. Check AOL’s online support for more info.

Solution 3: Uninstall Multiple Versions of QuickBooks Desktop

When you get the same QuickBooks versions installed on the computer, like QuickBooks Pro 2019 and QuickBooks Premier 2019, you’ll get this issue. If you are only required to install the Updated Version for QuickBooks Pro 2019, adhere to the below-mentioned steps:

  1. Go to the Downloads & Updates section on the QuickBooks website.
  2. Select your country and QuickBooks product (e.g., QuickBooks Pro 2023).
  3. Click Search, then select Get the Latest Updates.
  4. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the update for your specific version.

Solution 4: Reset QuickBooks Desktop Updates and Try Again

To resolve the error, you can attempt to reset the previous update by following the steps below:

Update the QuickBooks Desktop
  1. Open QuickBooks Desktop.
  2. Go to Help > Update QuickBooks Desktop.
  3. Select Update Now, then choose Reset Update from the drop-down menu.
  4. Click Get Updates. The update may take some time to complete.

Solution 5: Configure Firewall Settings

A firewall can sometimes interfere with QuickBooks if not configured correctly. Follow these steps to configure your firewall settings:

Step 1: Allow QuickBooks Through the Windows Firewall

  1. Open the Control Panel and go to the System and Security tab.
  2. Click on Firewall and Network Protection.
  3. Navigate to the Windows Firewall tab.
  4. Select the option to Allow an app or feature through Windows Firewall.
  5. Click on Change settings.
  6. Look for QuickBooks in the list and ensure both Private and Public options are selected for QuickBooks.
    • If QuickBooks is not listed, add it manually.

Step 2: Add QuickBooks to the Firewall

  1. If QuickBooks is not listed, click on the Add Program button.
  2. Click on Browse, then navigate to the following path:
    • C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks and select qbw32.exe.
  3. Click Open, then click Add.
  4. Click OK to save the changes.

Step 3: Disable Network Protection Temporarily

  1. If you are still having trouble, temporarily disable the firewall and network protection.
  2. Go to the Control Panel > Firewall and Network Protection > Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.
  3. Select the option to Turn off the firewall for both private and public networks (be sure to turn it back on once you’re done troubleshooting).

Step 4: Configure Antivirus and Firewall for QuickBooks

  1. In your firewall settings, ensure ports 80 and 443 are open for QuickBooks.
  2. Add the following QuickBooks files to the firewall settings:
    • QBW32.exe
    • QBCFMonitorService.exe
    • FileManagement.exe
    • QBDBMgr.exe
    • IntuitSyncManager.exe
    • QBDBMgrN.exe
    • QBGDSPlugin.exe
    • QBLaunch.exe
    • AutoBackupExe.exe
    • Dbmlsync.exe
    • QBServerUtilityMgr.exe

By ensuring QuickBooks is properly allowed through your firewall and antivirus settings, you can resolve any update issues caused by blocked connections.

Solution 6: Using the SFC/Scannow Command

You can use the System File Checker (SFC) tool to diagnose and repair errors within QuickBooks and the system. Follow these steps:

sfc/scannow
  1. Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
  2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter to begin the scan.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete.
  4. After the scan finishes, try updating QuickBooks Desktop again.
  5. Check if the issue is resolved.

What are the Prerequisites to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Update Error 12045?

Before attempting to fix QuickBooks Update Error 12045, ensure the following prerequisites:

  • Make a Backup of Your Company’s Files: It is advisable to generate the Company File Backup so that if something goes wrong at the time of the troubleshooting procedure, you will not lose any of the data.
  • Latest Version of QuickBooks: Make sure that your QuickBooks version is up-to-date before troubleshooting.
  • Antivirus and Firewall Settings: Temporarily disable firewall or antivirus software that could block QuickBooks from accessing update servers.

How to Identify QuickBooks Desktop Update Error 12045?

QuickBooks Desktop Update Error 12045 typically appears when you try to download or install updates and the process fails. Common signs include:

  • Error Message: The error message often reads: “QuickBooks Update Error 12045: Failed to install updates.”
  • Failed Update Process: The update process might start, but it either stalls or doesn’t progress at all.

When Should You Seek Professional Help for QuickBooks Desktop Update Error 12045?

You should seek professional help for QuickBooks Update Error 12045 if the error persists after trying basic troubleshooting steps, like checking your internet connection or adjusting firewall settings. If the issue is caused by a corrupt QuickBooks installation or system conflicts, a professional can diagnose and fix the problem efficiently. Seeking help ensures that the issue is resolved quickly without further disruptions to your work.

Hire QuickBooks Error 12045 Resolution Services

Hiring professional services is a great option if you’re unable to fix QuickBooks Error 12045 yourself. Dancing Numbers offers a specialized support team of experienced professionals to resolve your update, payroll, installation, or update-related errors.
+1-800-596-0806 or chat with experts.

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