According to recent reports, you are unable to update QB due to QuickBooks error 12038. We know that getting surrounded by problems during crucial tasks is so exasperating. But you don’t have to worry, we have got this problem covered.

First, we can consider restrictive firewall settings, wrong system date and time settings, and unstable internet connection to be the main reasons behind it. Moreover, this also takes place when there is a mismatch between the versions of QB and the Operating System.
To get this fixed, we have precisely addressed some solutions in the segment below. Take a long jump into the page and bring your QB to its previous state.
Triggering Factors Behind QB Update Error 12038
Here is a list of reasons that might be responsible for the occurrence of error 12028.
The main cause behind it is considered to be an unstable internet connection.
It may occur due to incorrect date and time settings.
This may arise if there is a mismatch between the version of QB and the Operating System.
This may take place if the firewall has restrictive settings.
Note:- Use QuickBooks Install Diagnostic Tool to fix installation errors, repair system issues, and ensure smooth, error-free QuickBooks setup and operation.
Practical Ways to Overcome QuickBooks Error 12038
Have a walk-through of this specific section to eliminate QB error 12038.
See what steps ask you to do it:
Verify date and time settings in the system
Head to the system clock.
Right-click on it and choose Adjust Date/Time.
Tap on the Change date and time option.
Specify the current date and time.
Click OK two times.
Close QB and open it again.
Run the update again.
Check the internet connection settings
Head to the Help menu.
Choose Internet Connection Setup.
Tap on the message that appears as Use my computer's Internet connection settings to establish a connection when this application accesses the Internet.
Click Next.
Tap on Advanced Connection Settings.
Move to the Advanced tab.
Restore Advanced Settings.
Click OK, followed by Done.
Update QuickBooks Desktop again.
Verify firewall application settings
One of the reasons behind such an issue is wrong firewall settings.
This can be configured to resolve it. For this, you are required to enable ports 80 and 443. Moreover, you need to provide access to the following files.
AutoBackupExe.exe
Dbmlsync.exe
DBManagerExe.exe
FileManagement.exe
FileMovementExe.exe
IntuitSyncManager.exe
QBCFMonitorService.exe
QBDBMgr.exe
QBDBMgrN.exe
QBGDSPlugin.exe
QBLaunch.exe
QBServerUtilityMgr.exe
QBW32.exe
QuickBooksMessaging.exe
Import the digital signature certificate
Close QB and open the File Explorer by pressing Win+E.
Choose This PC.
Then, tap on C: Drive.
Move to the Program Files.
Click on Intuit, followed by the QuickBooks folder.
Right-click on the .exe file.
Head to the Properties menu.
Choose the Digital Signature tab.
Review the signature list.
Make sure that the Intuit is chosen.
The Details option must be selected here.
Tap on View Certificate.
Choose Install Certificate in the Certificate window.
Tap Next, followed by Finish.
QuickBooks Error 12038: Complete FAQ Guide
What is QuickBooks Error 12038?
QuickBooks Error 12038 appears when the software cannot connect to the payroll server for updates. It usually happens during payroll updates, QuickBooks program updates, or when accessing online features, preventing smooth operations.
What Causes QuickBooks Error 12038?
The error may result from unstable internet connections, firewall or antivirus interference, incorrect system date and time, or outdated QuickBooks versions. It can also occur if the SSL certificate is blocked or the connection to Intuit servers fails.
How Can I Identify QuickBooks Error 12038?
Users typically encounter messages like "QuickBooks update error 12038" or "Payroll update failed." The error may freeze QuickBooks, stop updates from completing, or block access to online payroll services.
Does QuickBooks Error 12038 Affect Payroll Processing?
Yes, this error directly impacts payroll updates. If not resolved, employees’ payroll data may not update correctly, affecting payments, tax calculations, and filing compliance.
How Do I Fix QuickBooks Error 12038?
Begin by checking internet connectivity and ensuring the system date and time are correct. Update QuickBooks to the latest version, temporarily disable firewall or antivirus restrictions, and verify SSL settings. Running the QuickBooks Tool Hub can also resolve the issue.
Can Firewall or Antivirus Programs Trigger QuickBooks Error 12038?
Yes, firewall or antivirus programs may block QuickBooks from connecting to Intuit servers. Adjusting settings, adding exceptions, or temporarily disabling these programs can restore connectivity.
Does Internet Speed Affect QuickBooks Error 12038?
Absolutely. Slow or unstable internet connections can interrupt server communication, causing QuickBooks Error 12038 during updates. A secure and reliable connection is crucial for smooth operations.
Is QuickBooks Tool Hub Useful for Fixing Error 12038?
Yes, QuickBooks Tool Hub is designed to resolve common QuickBooks errors, including Error 12038. Using the tool can save time and simplify troubleshooting.
Can Incorrect System Date and Time Cause Error 12038?
Yes, mismatched system date and time settings can prevent QuickBooks from connecting to payroll servers, triggering Error 12038. Correcting the system clock resolves this issue.
Can SSL Settings Be a Reason for QuickBooks Error 12038?
Yes, if SSL (Secure Socket Layer) settings are blocked or misconfigured, QuickBooks cannot securely communicate with Intuit servers, resulting in Error 12038.
How Do I Prevent QuickBooks Error 12038 in the Future?
Regularly update QuickBooks, maintain reliable internet connectivity, monitor firewall and antivirus settings, and ensure system date, time, and SSL settings are correct to avoid this error.
When Should I Contact QuickBooks Support for Error 12038?
If standard troubleshooting steps fail or the error persists, contacting QuickBooks support ensures timely resolution and prevents prolonged disruptions in payroll and updates.
Discover more:- Resolve Intuit Data Protect Backup Failed issues instantly, safeguarding your QuickBooks data, ensuring secure backups, and maintaining uninterrupted accounting operations.
Conclusion
We hope that after implementing the solutions above, you were able to overcome QuickBooks error 12038. To make it more understandable, you have been given a list of causes behind it. For more information, give a call to +1(855)-510-6487 and talk to our specialised QB experts.