Fixing QuickBooks Error Code 12000: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Accounting

QuickBooks is a robust accounting software widely used by small and medium-sized businesses. However, users occasionally encounter errors, one of which is QuickBooks Error Code 12000. This error typically occurs when users are trying to update QuickBooks or are managing transactions related to Internet connectivity. In this blog post, we’ll explore the causes of this issue and provide step-by-step solutions to resolve it.

No need to suffer anymore due to QuickBooks issues like error code 12000. Get quick assistance and troubleshooting guidance from our experts. Call us at 1-844-266-9345 for help. 

What’s the QuickBooks Error Code 12000? 

The error code 12000 in QuickBooks generally pertains to a series of network and connection errors that can occur when updating QuickBooks or when attempting to download updates using the QuickBooks software. This error is part of a group of -12000 series errors that involve QuickBooks interaction with the internet.

Also, when users encounter QuickBooks Error Code 12000, the message displayed usually provides information about the nature of the issue, primarily related to internet connectivity problems. This message looks something like this:

“Error 12000: QuickBooks has encountered a network timeout that is preventing it from accessing the server.” Now, you must be thinking about the major reasons that trigger this QuickBooks error. Are you? Let’s briefly discuss them in the following section. 

Possible Causes of QuickBooks Error 12000

QuickBooks error 12000 is generally triggered by issues related to internet connectivity or network settings when QuickBooks attempts to connect to its server for updates or data transmission. The most common root causes for this problem are:

1. Firewall or Security Software Settings: Sometimes, firewall or antivirus software may block QuickBooks’ access to the internet. Improper firewall settings can prevent QuickBooks from communicating with its server.
2. Network Configuration Errors: Incorrect network settings, including incorrect browser settings or network connection configurations, can disrupt QuickBooks ability to connect to the internet properly.
3. Internet Connectivity Issues: If your internet connection is slow, unstable, or not available, QuickBooks may not be able to connect to the server, resulting in the QuickBooks error 12000.
4. Outdated QuickBooks Software: Using an outdated version of QuickBooks can also lead to compatibility issues with the server, especially during updates.
5. Time and Date Settings: Incorrect computer time and date settings can affect SSL certificates and other security protocols, causing connection issues and leading to QuickBooks error 12000.

Read Also: QuickBooks Error 15103

Different QuickBooks 12000 Series Error Codes 

The QuickBooks 12000 series error codes relate to issues with internet connectivity when updating QuickBooks or when the software tries to access online services. Here’s a table summarizing some of the common error codes in the 12000 series, along with a brief description of each:

Error Code	Description
Error 12002	QuickBooks cannot connect to the internet. This often happens due to network timeout or slow internet connection.
Error 12007	This error occurs when QuickBooks fails to connect to the internet, possibly due to a network timeout or an interrupted connection during the update process.
Error 12009	Similar to other errors in the series, this code appears when QuickBooks encounters problems updating due to an internet connection issue.
Error 12029	A more severe connectivity error that indicates QuickBooks failed to access the server. This could be caused by firewall settings or network issues.
Error 12031	This error is part of QuickBooks’ internal update feature failing to connect due to internet or firewall settings.

The above errors require users to ensure their internet connection is stable, and configure their firewall or antivirus settings to allow QuickBooks updates. Additionally, users must verify that their network settings are properly configured. 

What Methods Can Help Users Fix QuickBooks Error 12000?

To resolve QuickBooks Error 12000, you can follow several troubleshooting methods aimed at addressing the root causes of internet connectivity issues. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide to help you fix this error:

Troubleshooting Method 1 – Ensure your System’s Correct Date and Time Settings

Incorrect system date and time can affect internet security protocols and may lead to problems like error 12000 in QuickBooks. Make sure your computer’s date and time settings are correct. For this: 

1. Firstly, right-click the Start button and select Settings, or press Win + I on your keyboard.
2. Now, hit the time & language option, move to the “Date & time” tab, and toggle on Set time automatically. It allows your computer to get the correct time from Microsoft’s time servers.
3. Ensure that Adjust for Daylight Saving Time is toggled on automatically if it is applicable to your region.
4. Click the Set time zone automatically to allow Windows to detect and set the correct time zone based on your geographical location.
5. In the final step, verify the correct computer’s clock. Go to the “Date & time” settings, and click on Sync Now under the “Synchronize your clock” section.

Troubleshooting Method 2 – Update your Current QuickBooks Program Version

1. Begin this procedure by first closing QuickBooks. Now, go to the File menu > Back Up Company.
2. After this, you must open QuickBooks, and move to the Help menu, and select Update QuickBooks Desktop.

3. In the Update QuickBooks window, go to the Update Now tab, check the box next to Reset Update to clear all previous update downloads

4. Click Get Updates and Restart QuickBooks. Now, agree to the terms and conditions and follow the on-screen instructions.

5. Once the installation is over, you must restart your computer to ensure all changes are properly applied.

Troubleshooting Method 3 – Verify Internet Connection Settings

It’s better to verify the internet connection when facing the QuickBooks 12000 series error. For this, follow these brief steps:

1. First, try accessing a reliable website like www.google.com. 
2. Secondly, turn Off Your Modem and Router and ensure your computer reconnects to the internet.
3. Right after this, you must disable your firewall temporarily to see if it resolves the connectivity issue. Remember to switch it ON after testing is over.
4. Now, you must type cmd in the search bar and open Command Prompt. To continue this, type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter. 
5. Done till this? The next step is to make sure Internet Explorer is set as the default browser in your system settings. It’s because QuickBooks uses it for web functions. 
6. Afterward, open QuickBooks and go to Help > Internet Connection Setup.
7. Finally, select the option to use your computer’s internet settings, click Next, and then Done.

Know More About QuickBooks Error 30159

Ask Our Professionals for Help..! 

QuickBooks Error Code 12000 is usually linked to network and internet settings issues. By following the above steps, most users will resolve the issue and return to normal QuickBooks use. If the problem persists, consider contacting our QuickBooks support via Live Chat Support for further assistance.