How to Fix QuickBooks Payroll Error 15311 (Reasons and Solutions)

Get Expert Help: Call 855-389-9729

QuickBooks is a powerful accounting software that simplifies payroll, tax filing, and employee management for businesses of all sizes. But sometimes, users run into technical glitches like QuickBooks Payroll Error 15311, which can interrupt important updates and payroll processing.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what Error 15311 means, why it happens, and the steps you can take to resolve it quickly and easily.

Table of Contents

What is QuickBooks Payroll Error 15311?

QuickBooks Error 15311 typically occurs during the process of updating payroll or QuickBooks Desktop. It is a Microsoft Windows-related error that prevents QuickBooks from connecting to the internet or downloading updates successfully.

You might see this error message:

“Error 15311: QuickBooks update cannot be completed successfully.”

This issue can stop important payroll functions and cause frustration—but the good news is that it’s fixable!

Also Read: How to Fix QuickBooks License Error After Cloning (License Error)?

Common Causes of QuickBooks Error 15311

Error 15311 may be triggered by:

Incomplete or failed QuickBooks update
Incorrect Internet Explorer settings
Expired or inactive digital signature certificate
Corrupted Windows registry or system files
Internet connection issues
Antivirus or firewall blocking QuickBooks updates

Also Read: QuickBooks Keeps Crashing on Windows 11? Here’s How to Fix It

How to Fix QuickBooks Payroll Error 15311: Step-by-Step Guide

Here are the most effective solutions to resolve Error 15311 and restore your payroll services:

Step 1: Install a Digital Signature Certificate

One of the most common reasons behind Error 15311 is a missing or invalid digital signature.

Navigate to:
C:Program FilesIntuitQuickBooks
Locate the file: QBW32.exe
Right-click the file and select Properties
Go to the Digital Signatures tab
Choose Intuit Inc. from the list
Click Details > View Certificate
Click Install Certificate
Follow the on-screen instructions and restart your computer

Also Read: How to Fix QuickBooks Error 5502 (Easy Troubleshooting Steps)

Step 2: Verify Your Internet Explorer Settings

QuickBooks relies on Internet Explorer for internet access, so make sure it’s configured correctly:

Open Internet Explorer
Click on the Gear icon > Internet Options
Go to the Security tab and set it to Medium-High
Under the Connections tab, click LAN Settings and ensure that Automatically Detect Settings is checked
Go to the Advanced tab:
- Check SSL 2.0 and SSL 3.0
- Uncheck Check for publisher’s certificate revocation
Click Apply and then OK

Restart QuickBooks and try updating payroll again.

Step 3: Reconfigure Firewall and Antivirus Settings

Your firewall or antivirus software may be blocking QuickBooks connections.

Make sure the following files are added as exceptions:

QBW32.exe
QBUpdate.exe
IntuitUpdateService.exe

If you’re unsure how to do this, consult your firewall or antivirus provider’s support page, or call QuickBooks Support at 855-389-9729.

Step 4: Verify QuickBooks is Registered

Unregistered software can sometimes cause update issues.

Open QuickBooks Desktop
Press F2 or Ctrl + 1 to open the Product Information window
Look for the registration status
If it’s not registered, go to Help > Activate QuickBooks Desktop
Follow the on-screen steps to complete registration

Step 5: Download and Install Updates Manually

If automatic updates fail, try installing updates manually:

Visit the QuickBooks Downloads & Updates Page
Choose your QuickBooks version and download the latest updates
Run the update file and follow the prompts
Restart your system after installation

Need Professional Help? Call QuickBooks Support at 855-389-9729

If none of the above steps work, the issue may be more complex or specific to your system setup. Don’t worry — our certified QuickBooks experts are here to help! Call 855-389-9729 for 24/7 support and get your payroll back on track today.

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Payroll Error 15311 may seem like a roadblock, but with the right steps, it’s easy to overcome. Whether it’s updating your digital certificate, tweaking your internet settings, or checking firewall permissions, these solutions are designed to get your payroll running smoothly again.

And remember, if you ever feel stuck, QuickBooks Support is just a call away at 855-389-9729.