Hi Jens,
When I go to the iTunes Error Code list, the Error 9 issue seems to be directly related to either Security Software or, if a hardware issue, to the USB cable:
Errors: 2, 4, 6, 9, 1611, 9006.
Sometimes security software can stop your device from communicating with either the Apple update server or with your device.
Check your security software and settings to make sure that they aren't blocking a connection to the Apple servers.
If you still see the error message, check for USB connection issues.
Both of these items lead to other links in the article, but I would suggest that if the first section here does not result in a resolution, that each subsequent link be tried (and sometimes tried again).
We do not have any inside access or special insights into what Apple does or how Apple plays, as we really are just users like you.
I totally understand the frustration that people feel when they run into seemingly insurmountable errors, because dealing with Apple can be similar to dealing with AT&T. Lots of people working for them with various levels of knowledge, and oftentimes, various levels of information.
I have not run into a problem that eventually I could not get around, but sometimes it could take hours or days to get it resolved.
If, after going through the troubleshooting steps (and again, tried multiple times), the issue is still ongoing, then I have found that one of the easiest ways to see if a problem can be resolved is to erase the device and then set it up as brand new (not from a backup) to see if the issue goes away. Hopefully, you have backed up your device regularly, so that if you can get it working again as a "clean" install, you can then reset again and restore it from a current backup. If you are able to do this then you can determine if the issue is actually with the hardware itself, or if it is with the data on your phone (which can oftentimes be the ultimate culprit): If the problem goes away on a "clean" install, but comes back when you re-install from a backup, then the data is the problem.
In the case of an Error 9, I would first try different USB cables, and also make sure that the connection ports are clean. I can't tell you how many posters have reported that after a careful and thorough cleaning of the USB connection ports, problems that they have been having related to the USB go away. To do this, use a soft, clean, toothbrush, to clean out the port. Many have reported excellent success with using a wooden toothpick, and have advised that you do not stop "digging around" until you are absolutely certain that you have checked every nook and cranny. Some have reported that they had gotten a ton of lint and other debris out, and to their surprise, when doing a final check in each of the hard-to-reach corners, came up with yet another massive ball of lint....
Since you indicated that many of the posters are upgrading from a pre-iOS 7 release to an iOS 9 release, the USB cable issue could be a result of the changes that were put into the iOS 7 release which checked to ensure that the USB cable being used was either an Apple cable or an Apple-approved cable. If the cable fails that test, it simply will not work. Occasionally, even an actual Apple or Apple-approved cable will not work either (I have run into this), but carefully removing and re-seating the cable will rectify this. I have particular problem with connecting to my Bose Sound Dock - sometimes the unplug and re-seat has to be repeated 2 or 3 times, but it always eventually recognizes the cable and carries on....)
If you are able to rule out the USB as being an issue, then for me, the next easiest thing is to go with the "clean" install approach, but many would think that too radical, so that would be your call.
Sorry to say, beyond just persevering, I know of no other way to get things functional again. A few things that I have done over the years which I think may have contributed to my encountering issues no worse than not being able to get connected to Wifi even with a full Network Reset are as follows:
- I always keep my iPhones in a case. Right now, I have a slip case that has two pockets, so both of my phones can go in there before going into my purse. The only times my phones are not in their case is when I have them in my hand or when they are sitting on my desk to be used. I handle them the same way I do my eyeglasses - they are allowed to sit out without protection when being used or when sitting on a table or desk - when they have to go anywhere else, they go in the case first
- I make sure I have regular backups (I have automatic iCloud backup set up for them, and whenever I hook up to my Mac, I also back them up to iTunes
- I also make sure I import my photos regularly to iPhoto or to Photos (I don't use iCloud Photo Library)
- I never download any software to my device form anywhere except the App Store
- I do not download the latest and greatest release the second it is out. I usually wait at least a week before doing so, and then I take a look at how it is doing. This serves a two-fold purpose: eliminates the frustration that so many people report in the hours (and occasionally days) after a new upgrade is released when they cannot get into the servers, and eliminates my getting an update on my device that may not provide me with the kind of results that I'm looking for
I know some of these seem like common sense, and there in no intention to be patronizing here, but you'd be amazed at how many of these steps are not followed by most people....
Sorry that I can't help beyond these words, but again, we really carry no more weight and have no more insight into the world of Apple than any other user has.
Best of luck, and post back if I can help further 🙂
Cheers,
GB
