A known issue in Sonoma 14.1.2+ where a totally dead battery breaks the secure enclave Jamf Community.

Press and hold the until you see "Loading startup options." Click Options , then click Continue to enter macOS Recovery. In the top menu bar, click Recovery Assistant > Erase Mac .

Are you seeing this error during a fresh macOS installation or after a factory reset?

: If you have a second Mac, you can use Apple Configurator to "Revive" (not restore) the firmware. This allows the second Mac to handle the activation request for the failing one.

Look at the output in the Terminal window. If it successfully contacts the server, it will prompt you to restart.

If your Mac's internal clock does not match the actual time zone, Apple’s servers will reject the security certificates required for activation. Step 1: Troubleshoot Your Network Connection

This error is frequently linked to Activation Lock , especially if the Mac was recently erased. Log in to iCloud.com/find on another device. Select your Mac from the "All Devices" list. Choose . Restart your Mac and try the activation again. 3. Use the "Erase Mac" Option (The "Nuclear" Fix)

Incorrect system time can cause security handshake failures. If possible, use the in Recovery Mode to set the correct date manually. Apple Support Community Advanced Solutions

If the local recovery environment is corrupted, you must repair the Mac's internal firmware. This requires a second working Mac and a free software tool called Apple Configurator. The Difference Between Revive and Restore

If you are seeing the error on your Mac—typically during a clean install, firmware update, or when using Internet Recovery—your computer cannot communicate with Apple’s authentication servers. This issue often occurs on Macs with T2 Security Chips or Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3/M4) chips, specifically Sonoma 14.1.2, often triggered by a fully drained battery, according to Jamf Community discussions .

: The Mac cannot reach Apple's activation servers due to Wi-Fi drops, captive portals (public networks requiring a login page), or firewall blocks.

Apple Silicon : Press and hold the until you see "Loading startup options."

This error message usually appears when you are trying to activate macOS (or an Apple server application like macOS Server) and the machine cannot establish a valid, secure connection with Apple's activation servers.

If it is disconnected, click it and select your network again.

If you have tried:

Use a USB-C to Ethernet adapter to connect directly to your router. This is the most reliable method.

On Apple silicon Macs, a firmware bug (particularly noted in macOS Sonoma 14.1.2) can cause this failure if the battery was previously drained. Troubleshooting Steps