Firewall and Antivirus configuration for EasyACCT and Information Return System

Firewalls are hardware or software applications that exist to prevent unauthorized access to a computer or network. They may also block data transmissions, which can interfere with EasyACCT communications. Allowing EasyACCT files access through the firewall can eliminate error messages in downloading, updating, and licensing the program, as well as e-filing returns.

In particular, you may see error messages or blank or missing sign in screen when trying to download and install EasyACCT. A hardware firewall blocking communications most often causes this message. The hardware firewall may be contained in your router or modem, or a separate standalone device. Your hardware firewall must be configured to allow access to the files listed below to resolve the error.

Most firewalls have the option to allow or trust specific applications and files, but some may require more advanced configuration. Refer to your firewall manufacturer's instructions on how to configure it. If you're not sure how to configure your firewall, contact your local IT professional.

• This article references default installation paths and uses YY to reference the year in 20YY format. C: will always indicate the local drive and X: will always indicate the network drive.

Some important things to keep in mind when using antivirus software:

• Never have more than one antivirus program running in realtime scanning mode.
• When updating other programs, make sure that you are not allowing them to automatically install extra toolbars and antivirus programs.

Power cycle the router and modem:

If you are receiving an error stating "This site can't be reached. The connection was reset" or if the connection issue just started happening it is recommended to reset your internet connection before continuing:

1. Power off the router and modem. If they do not have an off switch unplug both devices.
   • Some devices are a combination router and modem.
2. Wait 10 seconds.
3. Power on the modem and wait for the connection to establish.
4. Power on the router.
5. Attempt the connection again.

Accessing your firewall settings will vary by system or service used, we recommend reaching out to your IT department.

• Disable the antivirus and firewall programs running on your system.  Check with your antivirus vendor or your local IT professional to disable the antivirus and firewall temporarily.
• In the option to allow internet access to specific programs, make sure EasyACCT and Information Return System is allowed.
• Exclude the following files/folders from all firewalls in Windows, Routers, and antivirus programs:
  • C:\EasyW\Network\setup.exe
  • C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\Intuit\CefSharpBrowserCaches
  • C:\Users\username\AppData\Local\EasyACCT
  • C:\EASYW
  • C:\IRS2024

Anti-Virus Configuration:

Most antivirus programs include a real-time scan that continuously scans every file as it is accessed. Even if a file isn't infected, this scanning will slow file access, or even prevent the file from being accessed when the program needs it. This can cause errors within the program or during installation.

To reduce the likelihood of interference with the program and to improve performance, some specific locations should be excluded from that real-time scan. It's preferable to exclude entire folders rather than individual files to cover files that may have been changed or created by the program at a later time.

Allowing a regularly scheduled scan for these locations is encouraged, if no users are accessing the program during this time. Disabling the antivirus real-time scan completely when doing an install or update may prevent errors that can occur even when the listed locations are excluded.

When updating other programs, make sure that you are not allowing them to automatically install extra toolbars and antivirus programs. If you are not sure how to configure your antivirus software, contact your IT professional or the software vendor.

Allow the following URL in all firewalls in Windows, Routers, and antivirus programs:  https://webservicesfp.lscsoft.com/downloads/ez/2024_2024