How do I get rid of QuickBooks payroll error 15106 after latest updates?
QuickBooks Payroll, a crucial tool for managing employee compensation and tax compliance, can occasionally encounter errors that disrupt its functionality. Error 15106 is a common issue that often surfaces during payroll updates or tax table downloads. This error typically indicates a problem with the update service or the digital signature verification, preventing QuickBooks from completing the update process. Let's delve into the intricacies of this error, explore its causes, and provide a comprehensive guide to fixing it.
Understanding QuickBooks Payroll Error 15106
Error 15106, often accompanied by the message "The update program cannot be opened," signifies that QuickBooks is unable to complete the update process due to corrupted update files or a failure in digital signature verification. This error often arises when the downloaded update files are incomplete or the software is unable to authenticate the files.
Common Causes of Error 15106:
- Corrupted Update Files: Incomplete or damaged update files downloaded from Intuit's servers can prevent successful installation.
- Digital Signature Verification Failure: QuickBooks requires valid digital signatures to ensure the authenticity and integrity of updates. If the signatures are corrupted or invalid, the update will fail.
- Firewall or Antivirus Interference: Overly restrictive firewall or antivirus settings can block QuickBooks from accessing necessary servers or verifying digital signatures.
- User Account Control (UAC) Issues: UAC settings might prevent QuickBooks from making necessary changes to system files during the update process.
- Damaged QuickBooks Installation: Corrupted QuickBooks program files can interfere with the update process.
- Outdated QuickBooks Version: Using an outdated version of QuickBooks may lead to compatibility issues with the latest updates.
- Third-Party Software Conflicts: Conflicting software, particularly security software, can interfere with QuickBooks updates.
- Insufficient User Permissions: The user account might lack the necessary administrative privileges to install updates.
- Corrupted Windows System Files: Underlying Windows system file corruption can affect QuickBooks functionality.
- Internet Explorer Issues: QuickBooks utilizes Internet Explorer settings for updates, so incorrect settings can lead to issues.
Troubleshooting Steps to Fix Error 15106:
Restart Your Computer:
- A simple restart can often resolve temporary glitches that may be causing the error.
Run QuickBooks as Administrator:
- Right-click the QuickBooks desktop icon.
- Select "Run as administrator."
- Attempt to update payroll again.
Verify Internet Explorer Settings:
- QuickBooks relies on Internet Explorer even if it’s not your default browser.
- Open Internet Explorer, go to "Tools" (or the gear icon), and select "Internet Options."
- On the "Advanced" tab, click "Restore advanced settings" and then "Reset."
- On the "Security" tab, ensure that "Enable Protected Mode" is checked.
- Restart your computer.
Temporarily Disable Antivirus and Firewall:
- Temporarily disable your antivirus and firewall software.
- Attempt to update payroll.
- If the update succeeds, re-enable your security software and configure it to allow QuickBooks access.
Check User Account Control (UAC) Settings:
- Search for "UAC" in the Windows search bar and open "Change User Account Control settings."
- Temporarily lower the UAC slider to "Never notify."
- Attempt to update payroll.
- If the update succeeds, restore the UAC settings to their original level.
Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks:
- If other solutions fail, a clean install of QuickBooks might be necessary.
- Uninstall QuickBooks from the Control Panel.
- Download the latest installation file from the Intuit website.
- Reinstall QuickBooks, ensuring you have administrative privileges.
Run QuickBooks File Doctor:
- This tool can fix many QuickBooks-related problems.
- Download and run the QuickBooks File Doctor from the Intuit website.
Check for Windows Updates:
- Ensure your Windows operating system is up-to-date.
- Go to Windows Update and install any pending updates.
Rename the Update Folder:
- Close QuickBooks.
- Navigate to C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks\Components\OLB\Software Updates
- Rename the folder to “Software Updates.old”
- Restart QuickBooks and attempt the update again.
Q&A Section:
Q: Why does Error 15106 indicate that the "update program cannot be opened"?
A: This message suggests that the QuickBooks software has detected corruption or inaccessibility in the update files it's attempting to use. This corruption or inaccessibility prevents the software from executing the update program.
Q: Can a sudden interruption during an update, like a power outage, cause Error 15106?
A: Yes, sudden interruptions during an update can lead to corrupted files, which can then trigger Error 15106.
Q: Is it safe to permanently disable my firewall or antivirus for QuickBooks updates?
A: No, permanently disabling your security software is not recommended. Instead, configure your firewall and antivirus to allow QuickBooks access to the internet and necessary files.
Q: What if I don't have administrative privileges on my computer?
A: You will need to contact your system administrator or IT department to gain administrative privileges. Without them, you won't be able to install updates or make necessary changes to system settings.
Q: Can a corrupted company file cause Error 15106?
A: While a corrupted company file is unlikely to be the direct cause of Error 15106, it can contribute to overall QuickBooks instability, potentially exacerbating update issues. It is always good practice to verify and rebuild your company file regularly.
Q: I've tried all the troubleshooting steps, and I'm still getting Error 15106. What should I do?
A: If you've exhausted all troubleshooting options, contact QuickBooks support directly. They have access to advanced diagnostic tools and can provide personalized assistance. They may need to remote into your computer to resolve the issue.
Q: How often should I update my QuickBooks payroll?
A: It is recommended to update QuickBooks payroll whenever updates are available, especially tax table updates. These updates ensure compliance with the latest tax regulations and prevent payroll errors.
Q: Can using a proxy server cause this error?
A: Yes, proxy server configurations can sometimes interfere with QuickBooks updates. Try disabling your proxy server temporarily to see if it resolves the issue.
Q: What is the benefit of renaming the update folder?
A: Renaming the folder forces QuickBooks to download a fresh set of update files, replacing any potentially corrupted files that may have been present in the old folder.
Q: If I use a wireless connection, can that be a cause of this error?
A: Yes, a wireless connection can be unstable, and drop packets of data during the download. A wired connection is always recommended for critical updates.
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