How to Resolve QuickBooks Payroll Error 15106 - When Updating Payroll

QuickBooks is a widely used accounting software that streamlines financial operations for small and mid-sized businesses. However, users may occasionally face technical issues, particularly during payroll updates. One common issue is QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15106. If you’re encountering this error, you’re not alone—and there are practical ways to resolve it.

QuickBooks Error 15106

What is QuickBooks Error 15106?

QuickBooks Error 15106 typically occurs during payroll or software updates. It usually displays the following message:
“Error 15106: The update program cannot be opened, or the update program is damaged.”

This error prevents the software from downloading or installing the latest payroll updates, which may delay payroll processing and compliance.

Common Causes of Error 15106

Understanding the root causes can help you troubleshoot more effectively. Some common reasons include:

  • Insufficient Admin Permissions: You may not be logged in as a Windows administrator.

  • Active Antivirus or Firewall Software: Programs like Webroot or AVG may block QuickBooks update processes.

  • Damaged Update Installer: The update program may be corrupted or improperly installed.

  • User Account Control (UAC): UAC settings may restrict QuickBooks from executing update tasks.

  • Misconfigured Windows Security Settings: Certain Windows settings might flag QuickBooks processes as suspicious.

Signs You Are Experiencing Error 15106

  • QuickBooks update gets stuck or fails.

  • You see messages such as “The update program is damaged.”

  • Payroll features become inaccessible.

  • System or software performance slows down during update attempts.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error 15106

Let’s walk through several troubleshooting methods. Try them in order until the issue is resolved.

Solution 1: Run QuickBooks as Administrator

  1. Close QuickBooks Desktop.

  2. Right-click the QuickBooks icon on your desktop.

  3. Select “Run as Administrator.”

  4. Try updating QuickBooks or payroll again.

Solution 2: Disable User Account Control (UAC)

  1. Open the Control Panel and go to User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings.

  2. Move the slider down to “Never Notify.”

  3. Click OK and restart your computer.

  4. Try the payroll update again.

Note: Remember to re-enable UAC after resolving the issue to maintain system security.

Solution 3: Turn Off Antivirus/Firewall Temporarily

Antivirus software may falsely identify the update installer as a threat.

  1. Disable your antivirus software (e.g., Webroot, Norton, McAfee).

  2. Turn off Windows Defender Firewall temporarily:

    • Go to Control Panel > Windows Defender Firewall > Turn Windows Defender Firewall on or off.

  3. Retry the QuickBooks update.

  4. Once done, reactivate your antivirus to keep your system protected.

Solution 4: Rename QuickBooks Update Folder

Sometimes the update files are corrupted and need to be refreshed.

  1. Open File Explorer and go to:

    C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks (version)\Components

  2. Locate the DownloadQBXX folder (XX represents the version).

  3. Rename the folder to something like DownloadQBXX.old.

  4. Reopen QuickBooks and try updating again.

Solution 5: Use Clean Install Tool

If the above methods don’t work, you might need to reinstall QuickBooks using the Clean Install Tool.

  1. Uninstall QuickBooks via Control Panel > Programs and Features.

  2. Download the QuickBooks Clean Install Tool from the official Intuit site.

  3. Run the tool and follow the on-screen instructions.

  4. Reinstall QuickBooks and run the payroll update again.

Advanced Fix (For Tech-Savvy Users): Check Windows Services

  1. Press Windows + R, type services.msc, and hit Enter.

  2. Find Intuit QuickBooks FCS in the list.

  3. Right-click and select Start or Restart.

  4. Try updating QuickBooks again.

Preventing Error 15106 in the Future

  • Always run QuickBooks as an administrator.

  • Keep your Windows OS and antivirus software up-to-date.

  • Add QuickBooks as an exception in your firewall and antivirus.

  • Regularly check for and apply QuickBooks updates.

  • Schedule updates during off-hours to avoid interruptions.

Final Thoughts

QuickBooks Payroll Update Error 15106 can be frustrating, but it's usually fixable with the right steps. Whether it's adjusting security settings, running the software as an administrator, or reinstalling QuickBooks, there are several ways to regain functionality. If these methods don’t work, you may want to consult an IT professional or contact QuickBooks support directly. 

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