failed to retrieve configuration? Help!

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failed to retrieve configuration? Help!

I have 2 iPads, both Air 2's.. One is working fine, but has a cracked front glass. The other works fine, but after I factory reset it, now it starts up and after I connect it to my WiFi (or not), the next screen comes up and gives the error "failed to retrieve configuration." I have tried to use iTunes to backup the cracked glass one, then restore that backup to the "failed" one, and it did that, but still is failing to retrieve configuration. It seems that I am just stuck with an iPad that looks mint, but can't be used?

Is there another way? Should I just forget about this one?

Any help would be GREATLY appreciated!!

iPad Air 2, iPadOS 15

Posted on Oct 18, 2025 11:18 AM

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Answer 1

Oct 18, 2025 12:30 PM in response to i_Porter

If your iPad is not operating as expected, try a forced-restart - as this will often clear an isolated software issue:

Force restart iPad (models with Face ID or with Touch ID in the top button)

If your iPad doesn’t have the Home button, do the following:

Press and quickly release the volume button nearest to the top button.
Press and quickly release the volume button farthest from the top button.
Press and hold the top button.
When the Apple logo appears, release the top button.

If the problem persists after performing the restart, it may be necessary to reset the iPad to factory settings:

Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to factory settings - Apple Support

Otherwise, you would be best advised to seek assistance directly from Apple Support. You can contact the Support Team using the Support link at top-right or bottom-left of this page. Alternatively and perhaps easier, you can initiate and manage your support cases using the excellent Apple Support App. If not already installed on your iPad, the App can be downloaded from the App Store:

https://apps.apple.com/app/apple-support/id1130498044

You might also visit the Genius Bar at your local Apple Store or Apple Authorised Service Provider (AASP) - where the technicians will be able to test and assess your iPad - and you can explore your available options:

Genius Bar Reservation and Apple Support Options - Apple

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Answer 2

Oct 29, 2025 4:09 PM in response to LotusPilot

I have the same issue and genius bar was unable to fix it or even tell me what the problem could be. They say it must be a stolen device from a company with managed hardware. That is not the case with this device. It has simply been replaced by a newer model for my spouse ...so I wiped this one clean and was going to repurpose it. I have done all the possible resets (as have Apple genius bar) to no avail. I tried restarting again from scratch and factory reset using another ipad only to land at the same error. I have another ipad that is older ... I backed it up to my computer. I then factory rest this ipad air 2 and had it restore using that backup ... it looked liked it did it. It said it was ready to go. I opened the ipad and it went to the same error. I believe this is an apple issue and has everything to do wiht the last version of the software that loads onto this particular IPAD air 2. I have no issue reporposing any other ipad that we replace with newer version - except this one. I would like an answer if there is one that can be had ... Any ideas out there?

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