Herein we describe the molecular Co₄O₄ cubane complex Co₄O₄(OAc)₄(py)₄ (1), which catalyzes efficient water oxidizing activity when powered by a standard photochemical oxidation source or electrochemical oxidation. The pH dependence of catalysis, the turnover frequency, and in situ monitoring of catalytic species have revealed the intrinsic capabilities of this core type. The catalytic activity of complex 1 and analogous Mn₄O₄ cubane complexes is attributed to the cubical core topology, which is analogous to that of nature’s water oxidation catalyst, a cubical CaMn₄O₅ cluster.