QuickBooks Error 15106: Why It Happens & How to Fix It?

QuickBooks is an indispensable accounting tool used by businesses worldwide for managing finances, payroll, and taxes. However, like any software, QuickBooks is prone to errors that can disrupt workflow. One such error is QuickBooks Error 15106, which typically arises during payroll updates. This error can prevent users from installing updates, causing issues with payroll calculations and tax table updates. In this article, we will delve deep into QuickBooks Error 15106, discussing its causes, symptoms, and effective solutions.

What is QuickBooks Error 15106?

QuickBooks Error 15106 is a payroll update error that usually occurs due to security restrictions or improper administrative permissions. It is classified under the 15XXX series of QuickBooks errors, which are primarily related to update failures. When this error appears, the user may see the following error message:

“Error 15106: The update program cannot be opened. The update program is damaged.”

This error prevents users from updating payroll services, potentially leading to outdated tax calculations.

Causes of QuickBooks Error 15106

Several factors can contribute to QuickBooks Error 15106. Understanding the root cause can help in resolving the issue effectively. Some common causes include:

1. Insufficient Administrative Privileges: If QuickBooks does not have administrative rights, it may be unable to install updates.
2. Antivirus or Security Software Interference: Some security programs may mistakenly flag QuickBooks updates as threats and block the process.
3. Corrupt QuickBooks Update Files: If the update files are damaged or incomplete, QuickBooks may fail to update.
4. User Account Control (UAC) Settings: High UAC settings can restrict QuickBooks from making necessary changes to the system.
5. Multiple Users Logged in Simultaneously: If multiple users are logged into the system, QuickBooks might face issues accessing update files.
6. Improper Installation of QuickBooks: If QuickBooks was not installed correctly, update errors like 15106 may occur.

Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 15106

Users experiencing QuickBooks Error 15106 may notice the following symptoms:

1. QuickBooks payroll update fails or crashes repeatedly.
2. Error message “Error 15106: The update program cannot be opened” appears on the screen.
3. The update process gets stuck or is interrupted midway.
4. The system slows down or freezes when attempting to update QuickBooks.
5. Users are unable to access payroll services due to outdated tax tables.

Also Read: How to Fix QuickBooks Error 15241?

How to Fix QuickBooks Error 15106?

Now that we understand the causes and symptoms, let’s explore the step-by-step solutions to resolve QuickBooks Error 15106.

Solution 1: Run QuickBooks as Administrator

Since lack of administrative rights is a common cause, running QuickBooks with elevated privileges may resolve the issue.

Steps to Run QuickBooks as Administrator:

1. Close QuickBooks if it is open.
2. Right-click on the QuickBooks desktop icon.
3. Select Run as Administrator.
4. If prompted, enter the administrator password.
5. Try updating QuickBooks again.

If the error persists, proceed to the next solution.

Solution 2: Disable Antivirus and Security Software Temporarily

Sometimes, security software can interfere with QuickBooks updates. Temporarily disabling them may resolve the issue.

Steps to Disable Antivirus Software:

1. Locate the antivirus icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner of the screen).
2. Right-click on the antivirus program and select Disable or Turn Off.
3. Choose the duration (e.g., 15 minutes or until restart).
4. Open QuickBooks and attempt to update payroll again.
5. If successful, re-enable the antivirus software after updating.

Solution 3: Rename the QuickBooks Update Folder

If the update files are corrupted, renaming the folder can force QuickBooks to create a new update folder and download fresh files.

Steps to Rename QuickBooks Update Folder:

1. Close QuickBooks.
2. Navigate to the QuickBooks installation folder:
   • C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks (year)\Components
3. Locate the DownloadQBXX folder (XX represents the QuickBooks version).
4. Right-click the folder and select Rename.
5. Add .old at the end (e.g., DownloadQBXX.old).
6. Reopen QuickBooks and attempt the update again.

Solution 4: Turn Off User Account Control (UAC)

User Account Control (UAC) can sometimes block QuickBooks updates. Temporarily disabling it may resolve the error.

Steps to Disable UAC:

1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
2. Type Control Panel and hit Enter.
3. Navigate to User Accounts > Change User Account Control Settings.
4. Move the slider to Never Notify.
5. Click OK and restart the computer.
6. Try updating QuickBooks again.

After completing the update, re-enable UAC to maintain system security.

Solution 5: Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks

If none of the above solutions work, reinstalling QuickBooks using the Clean Install Tool can resolve persistent errors.

Steps to Perform a Clean Install:

1. Uninstall QuickBooks:

• Open Control Panel > Programs and Features.
• Locate QuickBooks, click Uninstall, and follow the prompts.

2. Rename Installation Folders:

• Navigate to C:\Program Files\Intuit and rename QuickBooks folders by adding .old to each.

3. Reinstall QuickBooks:

• Download the latest QuickBooks version from the official Intuit website.
• Follow the installation instructions.
• Activate QuickBooks and attempt the payroll update again.

Solution 6: Use QuickBooks Tool Hub

Intuit provides QuickBooks Tool Hub, which contains various diagnostic tools to fix errors automatically.

Steps to Use QuickBooks Tool Hub:

1. Download QuickBooks Tool Hub from the official Intuit website.
2. Install and open the tool.
3. Click on Program Problems.
4. Select Quick Fix My Program.
5. Once the process is complete, restart QuickBooks and attempt the update.

Preventing QuickBooks Error 15106

To avoid encountering QuickBooks Error 15106 in the future, follow these best practices:

1. Always run QuickBooks as an Administrator.
2. Keep QuickBooks and Windows updated to the latest versions.
3. Configure security software to allow QuickBooks updates.
4. Regularly backup QuickBooks data to prevent data loss.
5. Maintain proper user permissions to ensure smooth software operation.

Also Read: How to Fix QuickBooks Desktop Payroll Error PS058?

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 15106 can be a frustrating issue, especially when it disrupts payroll updates. However, by understanding its causes and following the step-by-step solutions outlined in this article, you can quickly resolve the issue and resume your business operations smoothly. Whether it’s running QuickBooks as an administrator, disabling antivirus software, renaming update folders, or performing a clean install, these solutions will help fix the error efficiently.

If the issue persists despite trying all the fixes, contacting QuickBooks Customer Support at +1-888-905-3553 may be the best course of action.

By following the preventive measures, you can minimize the chances of encountering this error in the future and ensure seamless payroll updates. Happy accounting!

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