Common versions of the error 3259 message include:
“iTunes could not connect to the Store. An unknown error occurred (-3259). Make sure your network connection is active and try again. " “There was an error downloading your music (-3259). " “Cannot connect to the iTunes Store. An unknown error has occurred. "
This article explains the reasons why you may get this iTunes connection error and provides some easy ways to try to fix it.
What Causes iTunes Error 3259
All of the things that cause iTunes error 3259 center around a connection problem. You may not be able to connect to iTunes due to a poor internet connection or outdated system settings. Your computer also might have security software that conflicts with iTunes, preventing a connection to the service.
Whatever the reason, some easy fixes might solve this problem and get you back to connecting and using iTunes.
How to Fix iTunes Error 3259
After trying each of these troubleshooting steps, connect to iTunes again. If you still can’t connect, move on to the next possible solution.
Update the time settings. Because iTunes checks the computer’s date, time, and timezone settings, make sure these are correct. If these settings are wrong, this may be why you can’t connect to iTunes on a Windows PC or a Mac. Log in as an administrator on your Mac or Windows PC before changing your time settings. Check the network connection. If your internet connection is down, you can’t connect to iTunes. Make sure the internet connection is working properly, and then connect to iTunes again. Update iTunes. An outdated version of iTunes might cause a connection error. Get the latest version of iTunes so you’ll have all the newest bug fixes and security updates, and then see if this solves the problem. Update the operating system. Install any available Windows or macOS updates. Having the latest operating system version ensures that you have critical security patches. It also provides system stability and removes any outdated features. Update the operating system and then see if you can connect to iTunes. Update security software. Security software, such as antivirus software and firewalls, may need an update to fix bugs, remove conflicts, and add new features. After you update your security software, see if you can connect to iTunes. Disable or uninstall security software. Your security software may conflict with your ability to connect to iTunes. If you have more than one security program, disable or uninstall them one at a time to isolate which is causing the problem. This process varies according to your specific security programs, so check the documentation for details. If turning off your firewall solved the problem, check out Apple’s lists of ports and services that are required for iTunes and add rules to your firewall configuration to allow these exceptions. Check your computer’s Hosts file. Make sure your computer’s Hosts file doesn’t block connections to Apple servers. If you’re unsure of how to fix specific files, reset the Hosts file to its default settings on a Windows PC or Mac. Editing a Hosts file requires more technical knowledge than the average person has. Get help from a tech-savvy friend or family member, or consider paying for tech support on this one. Visit the Apple iTunes support page. The Apple iTunes support website has a wealth of helpful features, including a searchable knowledge base and the ability to ask the community a question. You can also set up an appointment at the Genius Bar of your local Apple Store.
