QuickBooks Error 15106 is one of the most common payroll update errors that users encounter while using QuickBooks Desktop. It usually occurs when you try to download or install the latest payroll updates, and it disrupts the entire process by displaying an error message such as:

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

This error not only prevents payroll updates but can also cause delays in paying employees, filing taxes, and staying compliant with the latest regulations. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about QuickBooks Error 15106 — including its causes, symptoms, and step-by-step troubleshooting methods.

What is QuickBooks Error 15106?

QuickBooks Error 15106 is a payroll update error that appears when QuickBooks is unable to download or install the latest payroll updates. It is a part of the QuickBooks 15XXX series of errors, which are related to update failures. This error is common in Windows systems and is usually triggered by permission issues, antivirus restrictions, or damaged QuickBooks installation files.

When this error occurs, it prevents you from getting the latest payroll tax table updates, which are necessary for accurate salary calculations and tax deductions.

Common Symptoms of QuickBooks Error 15106

You may be experiencing Error 15106 if you notice any of the following symptoms:

• QuickBooks displays the error message “Error 15106: The update program cannot be opened” or “update program is damaged.”

• The payroll update process stops suddenly and does not complete.

• Your system may become slower or freeze during the update process.

• QuickBooks Desktop may crash or fail to respond while downloading updates.

• You are unable to access or process payroll data until the issue is resolved.

Main Causes of QuickBooks Error 15106

Understanding the root cause of this error helps in applying the right solution. The most common reasons for QuickBooks Error 15106 include:

1. Insufficient Administrator Permissions – If QuickBooks is not being run with admin rights, it may not have permission to update payroll.

2. Antivirus or Security Software Blocking the Update – Programs like WebRoot, Norton, or McAfee may mistakenly identify QuickBooks update files as a threat and block them.

3. Corrupted QuickBooks Installation – Damaged or incomplete QuickBooks installation files can trigger this error.

4. Disabled User Account Control (UAC) Settings – Incorrect UAC settings may interfere with update permissions.

5. Incorrect System Configuration – Misconfigured Windows settings can cause problems with payroll updates.

6. Damaged Update Folder (DownloadqbXX folder) – If the update folder is corrupted, QuickBooks will not be able to store update files properly.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix QuickBooks Error 15106

Follow these troubleshooting methods in order to fix Error 15106 and resume payroll updates.

1. Run QuickBooks as Administrator

Running QuickBooks with administrative privileges allows it to bypass permission restrictions.

• Close QuickBooks if it’s open.

• Right-click on the QuickBooks Desktop icon.

• Select Run as Administrator.

• Try updating payroll again.

2. Temporarily Disable Antivirus or Security Software

Sometimes antivirus programs block QuickBooks updates. Temporarily disable them:

• Open your antivirus program (WebRoot, Norton, McAfee, etc.).

• Look for the option to temporarily disable protection.

• After disabling, relaunch QuickBooks and try updating payroll.

• Once the update is complete, re-enable your antivirus for security.

3. Rename the QuickBooks Update Folder

If the update folder is corrupted, renaming it forces QuickBooks to create a new one.

• Open File Explorer.

• Navigate to C:\Program Files\Intuit\QuickBooks (your version)\Components.

• Locate the DownloadqbXX folder (XX represents your version).

• Rename it to DownloadqbXX.old.

• Reopen QuickBooks and download payroll updates again.

4. Perform a Clean Install of QuickBooks

If the installation is damaged, performing a clean install helps.

• Uninstall QuickBooks from your system.

• Download the latest QuickBooks Tool Hub (from Intuit’s official site).

• Use the Clean Install Tool to reinstall QuickBooks.

• Open QuickBooks and attempt the payroll update.

5. Verify User Account Control (UAC) Settings

Adjusting UAC settings can fix permission-related issues:

• Press Windows + R, type Control Panel, and hit Enter.

• Go to User Accounts > Change User Account Control Settings.

• Move the slider to the second option from the top (Notify me only when apps make changes).

• Restart your computer and try again.

6. Use QuickBooks Tool Hub

QuickBooks Tool Hub can automatically fix common update errors:

• Download and install QuickBooks Tool Hub.

• Open it and go to Program Problems.

• Run Quick Fix My Program and then QuickBooks Program Diagnostic Tool.

• Reopen QuickBooks and update payroll.

Preventing QuickBooks Error 15106 in the Future

Once you resolve the error, it’s important to prevent it from recurring:

• Always run QuickBooks as Administrator.

• Keep QuickBooks and Windows updated.

• Regularly back up your QuickBooks company file.

• Exclude QuickBooks folders from antivirus real-time scanning.

• Use QuickBooks Tool Hub periodically to repair minor issues.

Conclusion

QuickBooks Error 15106 can be frustrating, especially when it interrupts payroll updates. However, by understanding its causes and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can quickly restore functionality and avoid payroll delays. Running QuickBooks with admin rights, disabling antivirus temporarily, repairing the update folder, or using the QuickBooks Tool Hub are some of the most effective fixes.

By applying these solutions and maintaining regular updates, you can prevent future occurrences of QuickBooks Error 15106 and ensure smooth accounting and payroll operations.