Getting a “Server is Unavailable” error when trying to set up your iPhone 12? This usually pops up during activation and can be caused by Apple’s servers, a SIM card issue, or something on your end. Here’s how to troubleshoot it and get your iPhone 12 activated properly.
Check Apple’s System Status First
Before diving into fixes, make sure the issue isn’t on Apple’s end. Sometimes their activation servers go down temporarily for maintenance or outages.
- Go to Apple’s System Status page.
- Look for iOS Device Activation and check if it’s showing green (available).
If there’s a known issue, you’ll need to wait it out.
Make Sure Your SIM Card is Active and Working
An inactive or faulty SIM card can block the activation process.
- Remove the SIM from your iPhone.
- Insert it into another phone to see if you can get service.
- If it doesn’t work there either, it may be deactivated or damaged—contact your carrier to fix or replace it.
Remove and Reinsert the SIM Card
Sometimes the SIM just needs to be reseated properly.
- Power off your iPhone 12 completely.
- Use the SIM ejector tool (or a paperclip) to remove the SIM tray.
- Take out the SIM card and check it for scratches or water damage.
- Reinsert it carefully, making sure it’s aligned properly.
- Push the tray back in and power your phone on.
Try activating again.
Connect to a Strong Wi-Fi Network
A poor or unstable internet connection can also cause activation issues.
- Make sure you’re connected to a strong Wi-Fi signal.
- If your current network is acting up, try connecting to a different one.
- Restart your modem/router if needed.
Use iTunes (or Finder) to Activate via a Computer
If the error won’t go away, try activating your iPhone through a computer.
You’ll need:
- A Mac with macOS Catalina or later (use Finder), or
- A PC/Mac with iTunes installed (and updated)
Steps:
- Connect your iPhone 12 to the computer using a Lightning cable.
- Open iTunes or Finder.
- Wait for the computer to detect the device. If prompted, choose to trust the device.
- If your iPhone is stuck, put it into Recovery Mode:
- Press and quickly release Volume Up.
- Press and quickly release Volume Down.
- Press and hold the Side button until you see the Recovery Mode screen.
- When the Restore or Update options appear, select Update to reinstall iOS without erasing data.
(If Update fails, repeat and choose Restore instead.) - Let the process finish, then try setting up your iPhone again.
Try a Different SIM Card
If you’ve verified your current SIM is fine but activation still fails, try inserting a different, active SIM card—preferably from the same carrier. This can help rule out hidden SIM issues that don’t show up immediately.
Contact Apple Support or Visit a Store
If none of the above works, there may be something deeper going on—possibly with your iPhone’s activation lock, hardware, or Apple ID.
- Reach out to Apple Support directly.
- Or visit the nearest Apple Store or authorized service center for hands-on help.