Unable To Download Pxe Variable File. Exit Code 14 Sccm [updated] -

The SCCM error "Unable to download PXE variable file. Exit code 14" typically indicates a network error that has interrupted the operation, often caused by missing or incorrect network drivers in the WinPE boot image. This error occurs when WinPE cannot establish a connection to the Management Point (MP) to retrieve the variables required for the task sequence. Primary Troubleshooting Steps

• The Problem: The DP cannot reach the MP (firewall blocking port 443/80), the MP is overloaded, or the DP is assigned to the wrong site.
• The Fix: On the DP, review SMSPXE.log (located in SMS_CCM\Logs). Look for lines indicating failure to contact the MP or errors retrieving policy. Also, verify the SMS_MP_CONTROL_MANAGER is healthy on the MP.

• On the PXE-enabled DP, restart the SMSPXE service and IIS (or the WDS/PXE service if used).

• On the DP, ensure WDS/PXE service is running.
• Confirm the DP accepts PXE and is enabled for PXE in the SCCM console.

• Check the SCCM logs for errors related to PXE booting.
• Use the logs to identify the specific cause of the error.

• Look for entries showing the PXE request and whether files were served or rejected.

1. Creating a new PXE boot file that supports UEFI booting.
2. Updating the SCCM console to use the new PXE boot file.
3. Ensuring that the computer's BIOS is set to use UEFI booting.

John checks the SCCM console and sees that the computer is listed in the "Failed" state. He looks at the SMSPXE.log file on the PXE server and finds the following error: unable to download pxe variable file. exit code 14 sccm

: Issues with the "Enable PXE responder without Windows Deployment Service" setting on the Distribution Point. Stack Overflow Troubleshooting & Resolution Steps The SCCM error "Unable to download PXE variable file