Start here >>> If you can't activate your iPhone or iPad (Wi-Fi + Cellular) - Apple Support
If you are experiencing difficulties with (re)activation of your iPad, you may have more success if you connect your iPad to a Windows PC (with iTunes for Windows 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 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:
Force restart iPad (models with the Home button)
Press and hold the top button and the Home button at the same time. When the Apple logo appears, release both buttons.
Should it be necessary to escalate your issue to Apple Support, the quickest route to engaging with Apple Support will be via the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page - or using this link:
Official Apple Support
Be aware that the iPad2, iPad3 and iPad mini1 are all obsolete. Apple ended support for these models in September 2016. These models of iPad are 32-bit architecture devices, whilst all recent versions of iOS/iPadOS and compatible Apps are designed for 64-bit hardware platforms.
You need to consider that compatible Apps for older models of iPad are no longer available - as the App Developers and the Apple App Store have dropped all support for 32-bit devices. As older versions of Apps are removed from the Apple App Store, you’ll not be able to (re)download or install them - which may severely limit the usefulness and utility of your iPad. As such, if you want or need to access to current Apps, requiring more recent versions of iOS than your iPad is capable, you’ll need to consider replacement of your iPad with a much newer or current model.
