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How to Fix QuickBooks Error 15215 - Unable to Verify Digital Signature

· 3 min read
Debits

Introduction​

QuickBooks Error 15215 typically occurs during payroll updates or maintenance releases. This error is caused by a conflict with another application running in the background, often an application that requires a lot of bandwidth. This guide provides a step-by-step process to troubleshoot and resolve Error 15215 in QuickBooks.

Understanding Error 15215​

Error 15215 arises when QuickBooks cannot verify the digital signature of a file. This can happen due to:

  • Conflicting Applications: Other applications running simultaneously that consume bandwidth.
  • Firewall Settings: Firewall or antivirus settings blocking QuickBooks from accessing the server.
  • Incorrect Internet Explorer Settings: Misconfigured settings in Internet Explorer.

Steps to Resolve QuickBooks Error 15215​

Step 1: Restart Your Computer​

  1. Close QuickBooks: Ensure QuickBooks is completely closed.
  2. Restart Computer: Restart your computer to close any applications that might be interfering with QuickBooks.
  3. Reopen QuickBooks: Open QuickBooks and try to update again.

Step 2: Run QuickBooks as an Administrator​

  1. Close QuickBooks: Ensure QuickBooks is not running.
  2. Run as Administrator: Right-click the QuickBooks icon and select Run as Administrator.
  3. Confirm Prompt: If prompted by User Account Control, click Yes to allow QuickBooks to make changes to your computer.
  4. Retry Update: Try to update QuickBooks again.

Step 3: Verify Use of Port 443​

  1. Open Internet Explorer: Launch Internet Explorer on your computer.
  2. Access Internet Options: Go to Tools > Internet Options.
  3. Advanced Settings: Click on the Advanced tab.
  4. Security Settings: Ensure that Use TLS 1.0, Use TLS 1.1, and Use TLS 1.2 are checked. Ensure Use SSL 3.0 is unchecked.
  5. Apply and Close: Click Apply, then OK, and close Internet Explorer.

Step 4: Configure Firewall and Antivirus Settings​

  1. Open Control Panel: Go to Control Panel > System and Security > Windows Defender Firewall.
  2. Allow App Through Firewall: Select Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.
  3. Add QuickBooks: Ensure QuickBooks is checked for both private and public networks.
  4. Configure Antivirus: Open your antivirus software and configure it to allow QuickBooks processes.

Step 5: Restart Windows in Selective Startup​

  1. Open System Configuration: Press Windows + R, type msconfig, and press Enter.
  2. Selective Startup: In the System Configuration window, go to the General tab and select Selective startup.
  3. Disable Startup Items: Uncheck Load startup items.
  4. Hide Microsoft Services: Go to the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, and then click Disable all.
  5. Apply and Restart: Click Apply, then OK, and restart your computer.
  6. Run QuickBooks: Open QuickBooks and try updating again.

Step 6: Reinstall QuickBooks​

  1. Uninstall QuickBooks: Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features, find QuickBooks, and select Uninstall.
  2. Remove Installation Files: Delete any remaining QuickBooks installation files from your computer.
  3. Reinstall QuickBooks: Download the latest version of QuickBooks from the Intuit website and install it.
  4. Restore Data: Open QuickBooks and restore your company file from a recent backup.

Best Practices to Prevent Future Errors​

  • Regular Updates: Keep QuickBooks and your system updated to the latest versions.
  • Firewall and Antivirus Configuration: Ensure firewall and antivirus settings do not block QuickBooks.
  • Regular Maintenance: Perform regular system maintenance to avoid conflicts and errors.

Conclusion​

QuickBooks Error 15215 can disrupt your payroll updates, but by following the steps outlined in this guide, you can troubleshoot and resolve the issue effectively. Ensuring your software and system are properly configured and maintained will help prevent future errors, allowing for smooth operation of QuickBooks.