QuickBooks is widely used accounting software that offers various features and functionalities for businesses. However, users may encounter errors while downloading payroll or the QuickBooks Desktop application, such as Error 12029. This error typically occurs when QuickBooks is unable to establish a secure internet connection. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive troubleshooting guide to fix QuickBooks Error 12029 when downloading payroll or the desktop application.
Understanding QuickBooks Error 12029
QuickBooks Error Code 12029 is an internet connection-related error that can occur when downloading payroll updates or the QuickBooks Desktop application.
It can be caused by several factors, including:
vNetwork timeout issues
vInternet connection problems
vFirewall or security software blocking QuickBooks
vInternet Explorer settings
vNow, let's move on to the troubleshooting steps to resolve QuickBooks Error 12029 when downloading payroll or the desktop application.

Step 1: Check Your Internet Connection
The first step in troubleshooting QuickBooks Error 12029 is to ensure that you have a stable and active internet connection.
Follow these steps:
Open a web browser on your computer and visit a few websites to confirm that your internet is working properly.
If you encounter any issues with your internet connection, contact your internet service provider for assistance.
Restart your modem and router to refresh the internet connection.
Step 2: Configure Firewall and Security Settings
Firewall or security settings on your computer can sometimes block QuickBooks from establishing a connection.
To fix this, follow these steps:
vTemporarily disable your firewall and security software.
vAttempt to download payroll or the QuickBooks Desktop application again.
vIf the error does not occur, add QuickBooks as an exception to your firewall or security software.
vRefer to the documentation of your firewall or security software for instructions on adding exceptions.
Step 3: Verify Internet Explorer Settings
QuickBooks uses Internet Explorer settings to establish a secure internet connection. Incorrect settings can trigger QuickBooks Error 12029.
To verify and adjust Internet Explorer settings, follow these steps:
vClose QuickBooks and any other open programs.
vOpen Internet Explorer on your computer.
vGo to "Tools" and select "Internet Options."
vClick on the "Advanced" tab.
vUnder the "Security" section, ensure that the following options are checked:
vUse SSL 2.0
vUse SSL 3.0
vUse TLS 1.0
vClick "Apply" and then "OK" to save the changes.
vRestart your computer and attempt to download payroll or the QuickBooks Desktop application again.
Step 4: Update QuickBooks
Outdated versions of QuickBooks may encounter compatibility issues when downloading payroll or the desktop application. It's essential to keep your QuickBooks software up to date.
Visit here: QuickBooks Premier Support
Fix QuickBooks Error Code 12029 - Effective Solution Methods
Follow these steps to update QuickBooks:
vOpen QuickBooks Desktop.
vFrom the top menu, click on "Help" and select "Update QuickBooks."
vIn the "Update QuickBooks" window, click on the "Update Now" tab.
vCheckmark "Reset Update" to remove previous update downloads.
vClick on "Get Updates" to start the update process.
vOnce the update is complete, restart QuickBooks and attempt to download payroll or the desktop application again.
Step 5: Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks
If the previous steps do not resolve QuickBooks Error 12029, performing a clean install of QuickBooks may help. This involves uninstalling QuickBooks and reinstalling it to ensure a fresh installation. Before proceeding with the clean install, create a backup of your QuickBooks company file.
Here's how to perform a clean install:
vUninstall QuickBooks from your computer.
vDownload the latest version of QuickBooks from the official Intuit website.
vInstall QuickBooks using the downloaded installer file.
vFollow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
vRestore your QuickBooks company file from the backup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I encounter QuickBooks Error 12029 on a Mac?
A1: No, QuickBooks Error 12029 is specific to the Windows version of QuickBooks and does not occur on Mac computers.
Q2: Do I need to be connected to the internet to fix QuickBooks Error 12029?
A2: Yes, a stable internet connection is required to troubleshoot and resolve QuickBooks Error 12029 as it is related to connectivity issues.
Q3: Should I contact QuickBooks support if the error persists after following these steps?
A3: If you have followed all the troubleshooting steps provided in this article and the error still persists, it is recommended to reach out to QuickBooks support for further assistance.
Read more: QuickBooks Error 12029 Try these 5 Steps for a Quick Fix
Conclusion
QuickBooks Error 12029 when downloading payroll or the desktop application can be frustrating. However, by following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide, you can resolve the issue and resume using QuickBooks without interruptions. Start by checking your internet connection, configuring firewall settings, verifying Internet Explorer settings, updating QuickBooks, and performing a clean install if necessary. If you need additional help, don't hesitate to contact QuickBooks customer support for further assistance.
