The "Unable to download PXE variable file. Exit code 14" error occurs when a computer attempts to boot from the network using PXE, but is unable to download the necessary variable file from the SCCM server. This error is typically accompanied by a boot failure, and the computer may display an error message similar to:
Does the device's current IP belong to a Boundary Group? unable to download pxe variable file. exit code 14 sccm
Before diving into the error, let's briefly review the PXE process and how it relates to SCCM. PXE is a protocol that allows a computer to boot from a network location, rather than from a local hard drive. This is useful for deploying operating systems, as it enables technicians to boot a computer from a network location and install an OS without requiring a local installation media. The "Unable to download PXE variable file