unable to activate
how to activate
error: unable to activate
your iPad could not be activated because the activation server cannot be reached. try connecting your iPad to a mac or a PC with iTunes to activate it
iPad (5th gen) Wi-Fi, Cellular
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If you are experiencing difficulties with (re)activation of your iPad, you may have more success if you connect your iPad to a PC (with iTunes installed) or a Mac (with iTunes or Finder - as appropriate for the installed version of macOS). Once connected to your computer, your iPad will be detected - and you should be able to activate using iTunes.
- Make sure that you have the latest version of macOS or the latest version of iTunes.
- Check that your computer has an Internet connection.
- With the cable that came with your iPad, connect your iPad to your computer. Locate your device on your computer.
- Wait while your computer detects and activates your iPad:
- If you see an alert that shows "Set up as New" or "Restore from Backup", it means your iPad is activated.
- If you get an error message that says the "activation information was invalid" or "activation information could not be obtained from the device", use recovery mode to restore your iPhone.
A restart of your WiFi Router and/or a change of DNS settings may also be helpful.
To restart you home router, disconnect power - then wait at least 30 seconds before restarting. When you router has rebooted (which may take several minutes), force-restart your iPad:
- On an iPad with a Home button: Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.
- On an iPad with Face ID: Press and quickly release the volume up button, press and quickly release the volume down button, then press and hold the top button. When the Apple logo appears, release the button.
For recommended DNS servers (configured at your home router and/or your iPad), you might choose one of the following recommended DNS Providers (IPv4 and IPv6 addresses included below):
Quad9
9.9.9.9
149.112.112.112
2620:fe::fe
2620:fe::9
OpenDNS
208.67.222.222
208.67.220.220
2620:0:ccc::2
2620:0:ccd::2
Cloudflare+APNIC
1.1.1.1
1.0.0.1
2606:4700:4700::1111
2606:4700:4700::1001
Should it be necessary to escalate your issue to Apple Support, the quickest route to engaging with Apple Support will be via the Get Support link at top-right of this page.