QuickBooks is an essential tool for businesses and accountants, offering a comprehensive platform for managing finances, payroll, and other critical accounting tasks. Despite its robust features, QuickBooks can encounter various errors during its operation. One such error that can cause interruptions is QuickBooks Error 15113. This error primarily occurs during the update process of QuickBooks Desktop and can disrupt payroll services, leaving businesses stuck without the most recent tax updates.

In this blog, we will explore the possible causes of QuickBooks Error 15113 and provide a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting it.

Find out more: QuickBooks Error 99994: Troubleshooting Guide and Solutions

What is QuickBooks Error 15113?

QuickBooks Error 15113 is part of the 15000 series of errors, which are commonly associated with issues during updates of QuickBooks Desktop or payroll services. This specific error typically emerges when the program fails to verify the digital signature of an update, preventing the update from being downloaded or installed. As a result, users are left with outdated software or payroll services, which could have significant implications for business operations.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 15113

Understanding the root causes of QuickBooks Error 15113 is crucial for effective troubleshooting. Here are some of the primary reasons why this error may occur:

  1. Incomplete Update Download: A sudden loss of internet connection or an interruption during the download process may result in an incomplete or corrupted file, causing the error.

  2. Misconfigured Internet Explorer Settings: Since QuickBooks relies on Internet Explorer for updates, incorrect or outdated settings can interfere with the update process.

  3. Firewall or Antivirus Blocking: Security programs like firewalls or antivirus software may block QuickBooks from downloading the update files.

  4. Corrupted QuickBooks Installation: An installation issue may cause conflicts with the update process, leading to Error 15113.

  5. Outdated Digital Signature Certificate: QuickBooks updates require verification of the digital signature. If the certificate is outdated or not verified, the update will fail.

Check out more: QuickBooks has stopped working Windows 11 – Unbelievable Tips

How to Troubleshoot QuickBooks Error 15113

Here is a step-by-step guide to troubleshooting QuickBooks Error 15113:

Step 1: Verify Internet Explorer Settings

Since QuickBooks uses Internet Explorer for downloading updates, it’s essential to ensure that your Internet Explorer settings are configured correctly.

  1. Update Internet Explorer: Ensure that you are using the latest version of Internet Explorer. If you are using an outdated version, it might interfere with the update process.

  2. Check SSL Settings: To verify SSL settings:

    • Open Internet Explorer and go to the Tools menu.
    • Click on Internet Options and select the Advanced tab.
    • Scroll down to the Security section and ensure that both SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0 are unchecked, while TLS 1.2 is checked.

  3. Clear Cache and Cookies: Sometimes, stored cookies and cache data can interfere with the update process. Clear the cache and cookies to eliminate any possible hindrances.

Step 2: Configure Windows Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Your firewall or antivirus software might block QuickBooks from downloading updates. To resolve this:

  1. Add QuickBooks as an Exception in the Firewall:
    • Go to your computer’s Control Panel and open Windows Defender Firewall.
    • Click on Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
    • Find QuickBooks in the list and ensure that both private and public network options are checked.
  2. Temporarily Disable Antivirus: If adding QuickBooks to the exception list does not work, try temporarily disabling your antivirus software while downloading updates. Be sure to re-enable it after the update is complete.

Step 3: Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks

If the error persists, the problem might lie within your QuickBooks installation. Reinstalling the software may resolve the issue.

  1. Uninstall QuickBooks:
    • Open the Control Panel and go to Programs and Features.
    • Find QuickBooks in the list, select it, and click Uninstall.
  2. Rename Installation Folders: Before reinstalling, you need to rename the installation folders to avoid conflicts. You can add “.old” at the end of each folder name. The default folders are:
    • C:\ProgramData\Intuit\QuickBooks
    • C:\Users[Your User Name]\AppData\Local\Intuit\QuickBooks
  3. Reinstall QuickBooks: Download the latest version of QuickBooks from the official website and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall it.

Step 4: Verify Digital Signature Certificate

One of the common causes of QuickBooks Error 15113 is an issue with the digital signature certificate. Here’s how you can fix it:

  1. Locate the QBW32.exe File:

    • Open the File Explorer and navigate to C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks (or C:\Program Files (x86)\Intuit\QuickBooks for 64-bit systems).
    • Find the QBW32.exe file.

  2. Check the Digital Signature:

    • Right-click on the QBW32.exe file and select Properties.
    • In the Properties window, click on the Digital Signatures tab.
    • Ensure that Intuit, Inc. is listed as the signer. If it is not, the file may have been altered or corrupted.

  3. Reinstall the Digital Signature:

    • Select Intuit, Inc. from the list and click Details.
    • In the new window, click View Certificate and then choose Install Certificate.
    • Follow the prompts to install the certificate and restart your computer.

Step 5: Update QuickBooks in Safe Mode

Another solution to resolve QuickBooks Error 15113 is to update the software in Safe Mode, which limits the number of running programs and reduces the likelihood of interference.

  1. Boot into Safe Mode:

    • Restart your computer and press F8 repeatedly before the Windows logo appears.
    • Select Safe Mode with Networking from the menu and press Enter.

  2. Update QuickBooks:

    • Open QuickBooks and try to run the update again while in Safe Mode.
    • Once the update is complete, restart your computer normally.

Read more: QuickBooks Error 99994: Troubleshooting Guide and Solutions

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Error 15113 can be a significant obstacle for businesses relying on the software for their accounting and payroll needs. The error often stems from issues with internet settings, firewalls, antivirus software, or digital signature certificates. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can resolve the error and get QuickBooks back to its optimal performance.

If you find yourself still facing issues after attempting these solutions, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional support. At QB Data Service, our team of experts is ready to assist you with QuickBooks errors, installation issues, and data recovery. Call us today at +1-888-538-1314 for personalized support!