Stepwise guide to rectify QuickBooks error 12038

Anything technical- be it software or tool- can be expected to harbor specific shortcomings, which could be referred to as loopholes. Since this is highly great and strong, based on advanced technology, QuickBooks has some shortcomings or errors, too, one of which happens to be QuickBooks Error 12038. This specific error occurs while updating the QuickBooks Desktop version to the latest release, and as it pops up, you will see "Failed to download update." Do not panic, as it is an easy fix to this error. The problem with QuickBooks error 1310, which also occurs during upgrading, is unlike this problem. The only thing to do is to understand the error and how it works so that we can find a solution. Let us first proceed to know the causes of QuickBooks error code 12038.

Are you facing some issues? Then, speak to our expert support team for fast solutions to your technical queries. To contact us, call 1-855-542-9309, and we will contact you immediately.

Destructive reasons that cause QuickBooks error 12038

1. Wrong Date and Time. 

2. Wrong MIsconfigured Internet Settings. 

3. An antivirus or firewall blocks the software. 

4. The user has Multiple Versions Set Up in QuickBooks.

Recommended to read: Sustainable Remedy to Resolve QuickBooks Error 1327

Proven solutions to fix QuickBooks error 12038

Having gone through the most essential details about the 12038 error code, it's time to let the cat out of the bag with the methods through which the error can be locked on permanent fixation. Let's check them one by one:

Step 1: Deactivate quickbooks updates and attempt re-installing them 

• Open Quickbooks Desktop.
• Click Help > Update Quickbooks Desktop.
• Choose Update Now.
• Now check on the Reset Update and then click Get Updates. 
• Quickbooks Desktop may take a while to update process.

Step 2: Check that the date and time are converted properly on the computer.

• Scroll to the bottom of your screen and click on the date and time section. They also need to be correct. If not 
• Press (Windows+R) keys together, and the Run box will be launched.
• Type Control or Control Panel in the run box.
• Then click on Clock and Region.
• Then select Date and Time.
• Click on Change date and time. 
• Now, change the time and date according to your time zone and click OK.
• Now click Change Time Zone. Make sure your time zone is correct. It may cause this error.

Step 3: Confirm Internet Connection Settings

• Before anything else, open your web browser and log on to the bank's website to which your account is associated, for instance, chase.com. If that website does not open, you should contact your ISP at least once.
• In case you can access the bank website, proceed with the following steps:
  • Launch QuickBooks Desktop.
  • On the help menu, select Internet Connection Setup.
  • Choose the option My Computer's Internet Connection Settings - Setup a connection when this application accesses the Internet
  • Click on next.
  • Select Advanced Connection Settings.
  • Move to the Advanced tab and choose Restore Advanced settings.
  • Choose Apply and Ok.
  • Select Done.
  • Close QuickBooks Desktop.

Step 4: Updating firewalls or security application settings

• Open the Start menu of Windows.
• Go to the search box and type Windows Firewall; Windows Firewall will be launched. 
• Click on Advanced Settings. Right-click Inbound Rules (you will eventually create Outbound Rules). 
• Then select New Rule. 
• Select Port and select Next. 
• Make sure TCP is selected. 
• Enter the specific ports for your QuickBooks year version in the Specific local ports field:
  •  QuickBooks Desktop 2020 and newer: 8019, XXXXX.
  •  QuickBooks Desktop 2019: 8019, XXXXX.
  •  QuickBooks Desktop 2018: 8019, 56728, 55378-55382. 
  • QuickBooks Desktop 2017: 8019, 56727, 55373-55377.

Step 5: Installing Multiple Versions of QuickBooks on a Single Computer

• Visit QuickBooks Downloads and Updates Page.
• Select your Country.
• Products like QuickBooks Pro, etc.
• Select From a Version such as 2019.
• Click Search.
• Now click on Get the Latest Updates (below the Download button).
• Now, you must follow the on-screen instructions to download and install the latest update.
• You can follow the same process below for the specific QuickBooks version you use on your computer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, QuickBooks error 12038 is a QuickBooks update that occurs when one tries to update QuickBooks to the latest version. To solve this error, we have provided you with expert-proven solutions. Try them out to fix your error. If you need help from our experts, contact us at 1-855-542-9309, and our support team will connect with you immediately.