Unable to activate Windows virtual machine from off-campus: "We can't activate Windows on this device as we can't connect to your organization's activation server." (Error code 0xC004F074)


Issue

I am off-campus and attempting to activate a Windows virtual machine from macOS, but I'm unable to activate it. The error message I receive when trying to activate is, We can't activate Windows on this device as we can't connect to your organization's activation server. Error code 0xC004F074.

I am connected to GlobalProtect VPN using the Best Available gateway.

Resolution

Please use GlobalProtect VPN's TunnelAll gateway on macOS and attempt to activate Windows.

  1. Select the GlobalProtect icon in your Mac menu bar. A small GlobalProtect window will appear.
  2. Select Change Gateway.
  3. Select TunnelAll Gateway from the list. Your default browser may display the Central Authentication Service (CAS). If it does, please authenticate with your Directory ID and passphrase.
  4. Once GlobalProtect displays Connected, please attempt to activate your Windows virtual machine again.