The QuickBooks Payroll Internet Connection Read Error occurs when QuickBooks fails to connect with Intuit’s payroll server, often caused by incorrect internet settings, firewall or antivirus blocking access, outdated QuickBooks Desktop or Payroll updates, damaged TLS/SSL configurations, or an inactive payroll subscription; to fix it, first ensure your internet is working properly, then verify QuickBooks internet connection setup from Help > Internet Connection Setup, allow QuickBooks processes like qbw32.exe and qbupdate.exe through firewall and antivirus, update QuickBooks Desktop and Payroll tax tables to the latest release, confirm your payroll subscription is active under Employees > My Payroll Service > Manage Service Key, reset QuickBooks updates by deleting the “download” folder in program files, and finally check Windows Internet Options to enable TLS 1.2 while disabling outdated SSL protocols; following these steps typically resolves issues related to QuickBooks Payroll update error, QuickBooks payroll connection error, QuickBooks internet connection error, QuickBooks payroll subscription error, and QuickBooks payroll service error, ensuring smooth payroll processing without interruptions.