iTunes Error Code 11571: Causes and Solutions

Are you facing iTunes Error 11571 and wondering what it means and how to fix it? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Error 11571 is a common issue that iTunes users encounter when trying to download, update, or install applications on their devices. This error can be frustrating, but with the right knowledge and troubleshooting steps, you can resolve it quickly and get back to enjoying your iTunes experience.

In this article, we will delve into the causes of iTunes Error 11571 and provide you with step-by-step solutions to fix it. Whether you’re using iTunes on a Mac or Windows computer, these solutions will help you resolve the error and ensure a smooth iTunes experience. Let’s get started!

Understanding iTunes Error 11571 

iTunes Error 11571 typically occurs when there are issues with the communication between your iTunes software and the Apple servers. It can prevent you from downloading or updating applications, songs, or other media from the iTunes Store. The error message may appear as “iTunes could not connect to the iTunes Store. An unknown error occurred (11571).”

This error can be caused by various factors, such as network connectivity problems, outdated iTunes software, issues with the security software or firewall settings, or even corrupted iTunes files. Now, let’s explore the possible causes in more detail and learn how to fix them.

Causes of iTunes Error 11571 

1. Network Connectivity Issues: One of the primary causes of iTunes Error 11571 is network connectivity problems. If your internet connection is unstable or experiencing frequent interruptions, it can disrupt the communication between your iTunes software and the Apple servers. This disruption can prevent iTunes from connecting to the iTunes Store. It is essential to ensure that you have a reliable and stable internet connection when using iTunes to avoid this issue.
2. Outdated iTunes Software: Using an outdated version of iTunes can lead to compatibility issues and trigger the Error. Apple regularly releases updates for iTunes to improve its performance, introduce new features, and fix bugs or security vulnerabilities. When you attempt to connect to the iTunes Store with an outdated version of iTunes, it may encounter difficulties establishing a connection, resulting in the error message. To resolve this, it is crucial to keep your iTunes software up to date by regularly checking for updates and installing the latest version available.
3. Security Software or Firewall Settings: Overly strict security software or firewall settings can also contribute to the occurrence of Error 11571. These security measures are designed to protect your computer from potential threats, but sometimes they can mistakenly block iTunes from establishing a connection with the Apple servers. If your security software or firewall settings are too restrictive, they may prevent the necessary network communication required by iTunes. To resolve this issue, you can adjust the settings of your security software or firewall to allow iTunes access to the internet. However, exercise caution and ensure that you are not compromising the security of your system while making these adjustments.
4. Corrupted iTunes Files: Corrupted or damaged iTunes files can be another cause. These files are vital for the proper functioning of iTunes, and if they become corrupted due to various reasons such as software conflicts, power outages, or hardware issues, it can result in connectivity problems with the iTunes Store. When iTunes attempts to connect to the store and encounters these corrupted files, it may generate Error 11571. To address this issue, you can try repairing or reinstalling iTunes, which will replace the damaged files with fresh copies and potentially resolve the error.

How to Fix iTunes Error 11571?

Fix 1: Check Network Connectivity

To resolve iTunes Error 11571 caused by network connectivity issues, follow these steps:

1. Restart your Router and Modem: Begin by restarting your router and modem to refresh the network connection. Turn off both devices, wait for about 30 seconds, and then turn them back on. Once they have fully restarted, check if the network connectivity has improved.
2. Switch to a Wired Connection: If you’re using a Wi-Fi connection, try switching to a wired connection by connecting your computer directly to the router using an Ethernet cable. Wired connections generally offer more stability and can help overcome network-related issues.
3. Reset Network Settings on Mac: On a Mac, you can reset the network settings by going to “System Preferences” > “Network.” Select your active network connection (Wi-Fi or Ethernet), click the gear icon at the bottom, and choose “Make Service Inactive.” After that, select the service again and click the gear icon to choose “Make Service Active.” This will refresh the network settings and may resolve connectivity problems.
4. Flush DNS Cache: Flushing the DNS cache can help resolve DNS-related issues that might be affecting network connectivity. Open the Terminal application (on Mac) or Command Prompt (on Windows) and enter the command “sudo killall -HUP mDNSResponder” (without quotes) followed by pressing Enter. This command will flush the DNS cache and can potentially resolve network-related problems.
5. Temporarily Disable VPN or Proxy: If you’re using a VPN or proxy service, temporarily disable it to check if it is causing the connectivity issue. Sometimes, VPNs or proxies can interfere with iTunes’ ability to connect to the iTunes Store.
6. Contact Internet Service Provider (ISP): If you have tried the above steps and are still experiencing network connectivity issues, it may be worthwhile to contact your ISP. They can perform diagnostics and provide assistance in resolving any underlying network issues.

Fix 2: Update iTunes to the Latest Version

If you’re encountering iTunes Error 11571 due to using an outdated version of iTunes, follow these steps to update the software:

1. Open iTunes: Launch the iTunes application on your computer. If you have an older version of iTunes installed, ensure that it is closed before proceeding with the update.
2. Check for Updates (Mac): On a Mac, click on the “iTunes” menu located at the top-left corner of the screen. From the drop-down menu, select “Check for Updates.” iTunes will automatically check for any available updates.
3. Check for Updates (Windows): On Windows, open iTunes and click on the “Help” menu located at the top of the iTunes window. From the drop-down menu, select “Check for Updates.” iTunes will initiate a check for updates.
4. Download the Latest Version: If a newer version of iTunes is available, you will be prompted to download and install it. Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed with the update. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection to download the update smoothly.
5. Agree to Terms and Conditions: During the update process, you may be required to agree to the terms and conditions of iTunes. Read through the terms and conditions, and if you agree, click on the appropriate button to proceed.
6. Wait for the Update to Complete: The update process may take some time depending on your internet speed and the size of the update. Allow iTunes to complete the update installation without interrupting the process.
7. Restart iTunes: Once the update is successfully installed, restart the iTunes application to ensure that the changes take effect.
8. Verify the Update: After restarting iTunes, go to the “iTunes” menu (Mac) or “Help” menu (Windows) and select “About iTunes.” The version number displayed should correspond to the latest version you installed. This confirms that you have successfully updated iTunes.

By updating iTunes to the latest version, you can address compatibility issues and potentially resolve iTunes Error 11571. If the error persists, proceed to the next fix for further troubleshooting.

Fix 3: Adjust Security Software or Firewall Settings

If iTunes Error 11571 is caused by overly strict security software or firewall settings, you can try adjusting them using the following steps:

• Step 1: Identify Security Software/Firewall: Determine which security software or firewall is installed on your computer. Common examples include Windows Defender, McAfee, Norton, or ZoneAlarm. Refer to the documentation or support resources for your specific security software/firewall to proceed with the necessary adjustments.
• Step 2: Temporarily Disable Security Software/Firewall: Temporarily disable your security software or firewall to check if it is causing the connection issue. Access the settings of your security software/firewall and look for options to disable or turn off the protection temporarily. Remember to re-enable the security software/firewall once you have completed the troubleshooting steps.
• Step 3: Configure Security Software/Firewall Settings: If disabling the security software/firewall resolves the error, you can proceed with configuring the settings to allow iTunes access to the internet. Look for options related to “program permissions” or “network access” within your security software/firewall settings. Add iTunes to the list of allowed applications or create a rule to allow iTunes through the firewall.
• Step 4: Allow Specific Ports or Protocols: Some security software/firewalls allow customization of ports or protocols. In your security software/firewall settings, look for options to configure specific ports or protocols. Ensure that the necessary ports (e.g., TCP port 80 and TCP port 443) are open for iTunes communication.
• Step 5: Whitelist Apple Services: Add Apple services and domains to the whitelist or trusted list of your security software/firewall. This includes iTunes-related services and domains such as “itunes.apple.com” and “gs.apple.com.” Consult the documentation or support resources for your security software/firewall to learn how to add these exceptions.
• Step 6: Test iTunes Connectivity: After adjusting the security software/firewall settings, open iTunes and attempt to connect to the iTunes Store. Verify if the error is resolved and if you can access the store without encountering Error 11571. If the error persists, consider reverting the security software/firewall settings to their original state.
• Step 7: Consult Security Software/Firewall Support: If you are unsure about making changes to the security software/firewall settings or need further assistance, contact the support team of your security software/firewall. They can provide guidance specific to your software and help troubleshoot any issues that might be causing the error.

By adjusting the security software or firewall settings, you can potentially resolve iTunes Error 11571. If the error persists, there is one more fix we will explore in the next section.

Fix 4: Repair or Reinstall iTunes

If iTunes Error 11571 persists after trying the previous fixes, repairing or reinstalling iTunes can often resolve the issue. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: Uninstall iTunes (Windows): On a Windows computer, go to the Control Panel and select “Programs” or “Programs and Features.” Find iTunes in the list of installed programs, right-click on it, and choose “Uninstall.” Follow the prompts to remove iTunes from your computer.
• Step 2: Reinstall iTunes (Windows): Visit the official Apple iTunes website and download the latest version of iTunes compatible with your operating system. Once the download is complete, run the installation file and follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall iTunes on your computer.
• Step 3: Repair iTunes (Mac): On a Mac, you can repair iTunes without uninstalling it. Close iTunes and go to the “Applications” folder. Locate iTunes, right-click on it, and select “Get Info.” In the Info window, check the box next to “Prevent App Nap.” This prevents iTunes from being interrupted by power-saving features. Launch iTunes again and check if the error is resolved.
• Step 4: Restart Computer: After reinstalling or repairing iTunes, restart your computer to ensure that any changes take effect and to clear any residual issues.
• Step 5: Test iTunes Connectivity: Open iTunes and attempt to connect to the iTunes Store. Verify if the error is resolved and if you can access the store without encountering Error 11571. If the error persists, proceed to the next step.
• Step 6: Seek Additional Support: If none of the previous steps have resolved iTunes Error 11571, it is advisable to seek additional support. Visit the Apple Support website or contact Apple Support directly for further assistance. They can provide specific troubleshooting steps tailored to your situation and help you resolve the error.

Fix 5: Check System Date and Time

Incorrect system date and time settings can sometimes lead to iTunes Error 11571. Follow these steps to ensure your system’s date and time settings are accurate:

• Step 1: Check System Date and Time (Windows): On a Windows computer, right-click on the date and time display located in the taskbar. Select “Adjust date/time” or “Date and time settings.” Ensure that the date, time, and time zone settings are correct. If necessary, toggle the “Set time automatically” and “Set time zone automatically” options to ensure accurate settings.
• Step 2: Check System Date and Time (Mac): On a Mac, click on the date and time display located in the menu bar. Choose “Open Date & Time Preferences” or “Date & Time Preferences.” Make sure the date, time, and time zone settings are accurate. Enable the “Set date and time automatically” option to ensure your system retrieves the correct date and time information.
• Step 3: Sync System Clock: If your system clock is incorrect, click on the “Sync now” or “Synchronise” button to sync your computer’s clock with the internet time servers. This ensures that your system’s time is aligned with the correct time.
• Step 4: Restart iTunes: After adjusting the system date and time settings, restart iTunes to ensure the changes take effect.
• Step 5: Test iTunes Connectivity: Open iTunes and attempt to connect to the iTunes Store. Check if iTunes Error 11571 is resolved, and if you can access the store without any issues related to incorrect date and time settings.
• Step 6: Verify Time Server Settings: In some cases, the time server settings on your computer may be incorrect or outdated. To verify the time server settings, refer to the documentation or support resources for your operating system. Ensure that the designated time server is correct and up to date.

By ensuring that your system’s date and time settings are accurate, you can eliminate any issues related to incorrect time synchronisation that may be causing Error 11571. If the error persists, you may need to explore further troubleshooting steps or seek additional support from Apple.

Fix 6: Clear iTunes Cache

If iTunes Error 11571 persists, clearing the iTunes cache may help resolve the issue. Follow these steps to clear the cache:

• Step 1: Close iTunes: Ensure that iTunes is completely closed before proceeding with the cache clearing process.
• Step 2: Locate iTunes Cache Folder: The location of the iTunes cache folder varies depending on your operating system:
  • Windows: Open File Explorer and navigate to the following path: C:\Users[Your Username]\AppData\Local\Apple Computer\iTunes. Note that the AppData folder may be hidden, so you may need to enable the option to view hidden files and folders in File Explorer settings.
  • Mac: Open Finder and press Command+Shift+G. In the “Go to Folder” window, enter the following path: ~/Library/Caches/com.apple.iTunes.
• Step 3: Delete iTunes Cache: Once you’ve located the iTunes cache folder, delete its contents. Select all files and folders within the cache folder and move them to the Trash (Windows) or Bin (Mac). Alternatively, you can create a backup of the cache folder by copying it to a different location on your computer before deleting its contents.
• Step 4: Empty Trash/Bin: After deleting the iTunes cache files, empty the Trash (Windows) or Bin (Mac) to permanently remove them from your system.
• Step 5: Restart Computer: Restart your computer to ensure that any changes take effect and to clear any residual cache-related issues.
• Step 6: Launch iTunes: After restarting your computer, open iTunes and check if iTunes Error 11571 is resolved. By clearing the cache, you have eliminated any potential issues caused by corrupted or outdated cache files.

If the error persists, you may need to explore further troubleshooting options or seek assistance from Apple Support to resolve the issue.

Fix 7: Check for Third-Party Software Interference

In some cases, third-party software installed on your computer can interfere with iTunes and cause Error 11571. Follow these steps to check for and address any third-party software interference:

Step 1: Identify Recent Software Installations: Reflect on any recent software installations or updates that may have coincided with the onset of iTunes Error 11571. Pay attention to antivirus software, system optimization tools, download managers, or any other programs that could potentially affect iTunes functionality.

Step 2: Temporarily Disable or Uninstall Suspicious Software: Disable or uninstall any suspicious third-party software that you suspect may be interfering with iTunes. This step will help isolate the problematic software and determine if it’s responsible for the error. Remember to follow the proper uninstallation procedures for each software.

Step 3: Restart Computer: After disabling or uninstalling the suspicious software, restart your computer. This action ensures that any residual effects from the interference are cleared.

Step 4: Launch iTunes: Open iTunes and check if the error persists. If Error 11571 is resolved, it confirms that the interference was caused by the third-party software you disabled or uninstalled. You can choose to keep the software disabled or find an alternative solution provided by the software vendor.

Step 5: Seek Updated Versions or Support: If you determine that a specific software program is necessary and causing interference, visit the software vendor’s website to check for any updated versions or patches. Alternatively, reach out to their customer support for assistance in resolving any compatibility issues with iTunes.

By identifying and addressing any potential interference from third-party software, you can resolve it and restore normal iTunes functionality. If the error persists, it is advisable to seek further support from Apple or consult with a professional technician to diagnose and troubleshoot the issue.

Fix 8: Reset iTunes Settings

If you’re still encountering iTunes Error 11571, resetting the iTunes settings can help resolve any configuration issues that might be causing the error. Follow these steps to reset iTunes settings:

Step 1: Close iTunes: Ensure that iTunes is completely closed before proceeding with the settings reset.

Step 2: Reset iTunes Settings (Windows): On a Windows computer, open the “Run” dialog by pressing the Windows key + R. Type %APPDATA%\Apple Computer and press Enter. This will open the Apple Computer folder. Locate the iTunes folder within it, right-click on it, and select “Rename.” Change the name of the folder to something like “iTunes_old.” This action effectively resets the iTunes settings.

Step 3: Reset iTunes Settings (Mac): On a Mac, open Finder and press Command+Shift+G. In the “Go to Folder” window, enter ~/Library/Preferences/. Locate the com.apple.iTunes.plist file and move it to the Trash. This action resets the iTunes preferences.

Step 4: Restart Computer: Restart your computer to ensure that any changes take effect and to clear any residual settings-related issues.

Step 5: Launch iTunes: After restarting your computer, open iTunes. You will notice that iTunes has been reset to its default settings.

Step 6: Configure iTunes Settings: Proceed to configure your desired iTunes settings, such as language preference, media folder location, or other preferences, according to your needs.

Step 7: Test iTunes Connectivity: Check if iTunes Error 11571 is resolved and if you can access the iTunes Store without any issues. By resetting the iTunes settings, you have eliminated any potential configuration problems that might have been causing the error.

If the error persists, it is recommended to seek further support from Apple or consult with a professional technician for advanced troubleshooting and resolution of the issue.

Preventing iTunes Error 11571: Tips to Maintain a Smooth iTunes Experience

To prevent encountering iTunes Error 11571 in the future, you can follow these tips to maintain a smooth and error-free iTunes experience:

1. Keep iTunes Updated: Regularly check for updates and ensure that you are using the latest version of iTunes. Apple releases updates to address bugs, improve performance, and enhance compatibility with the iTunes Store. Keeping iTunes updated helps prevent compatibility issues that can lead to Error 11571.

2. Maintain a Stable Internet Connection: A stable and reliable internet connection is crucial for seamless communication between iTunes and the Apple servers. Ensure that you have a stable Wi-Fi or wired connection, and minimise network disruptions to prevent connectivity issues that can trigger Error 11571.

3. Configure Security Software/Firewall Settings: Adjust the settings of your security software or firewall to allow iTunes access to the internet. Create exceptions or add iTunes to the list of trusted applications to prevent them from blocking the necessary network communication. However, exercise caution and maintain an appropriate level of security to protect your system.

4. Avoid Conflicting Software: Be mindful of installing third-party software that may conflict with iTunes. Some antivirus programs, system optimization tools, or download managers can interfere with iTunes’ functionality. Before installing new software, ensure compatibility with iTunes or seek recommendations from reliable sources to avoid potential conflicts.

5. Regularly Clear iTunes Cache: Clearing the iTunes cache can help prevent accumulation of corrupted or outdated cache files that may cause errors. Periodically delete the cache files as explained in Fix 6 to maintain a clean and optimised iTunes environment.

6. Double-Check System Date and Time: Ensure that your computer’s date and time settings are accurate. Incorrect date and time settings can lead to authentication errors and prevent iTunes from connecting to the iTunes Store. Regularly sync your system’s clock with internet time servers to maintain accurate time information.

7. Safely Eject Devices: When connecting and disconnecting devices, such as iPhones or iPads, to iTunes, always follow the proper procedure for ejecting them. Improper ejection can cause data corruption or errors in iTunes. Safely eject devices through the appropriate menu options or buttons within iTunes.

By following these preventive tips, you can reduce the likelihood of encountering iTunes Error 11571 and maintain a smooth iTunes experience. Regularly updating iTunes, maintaining a stable internet connection, configuring security software/firewall settings, avoiding conflicting software, clearing the cache, verifying system date and time, and safely ejecting devices contribute to a more reliable and error-free iTunes usage.

Conclusion

iTunes Error 11571 can be frustrating, but by following the troubleshooting steps provided in this article, you can resolve the issue and enjoy a smooth iTunes experience. Checking network connectivity, updating iTunes, adjusting security settings, repairing or reinstalling iTunes, clearing the cache, and addressing third-party software interference are effective solutions. By implementing preventive measures such as keeping iTunes updated, maintaining a stable internet connection, configuring security software, and safely ejecting devices, you can prevent future occurrences of Error 11571. Remember to regularly clear the iTunes cache and verify system date and time settings. With these tips, you can navigate iTunes smoothly and enjoy your favourite media hassle-free.

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