# Troubleshooting iOS/iPadOS Update Failures: Errors and Resolutions

Last updated: July 24, 2026

This guide helps administrators troubleshoot common iOS/iPadOS update failure scenarios, their corresponding error codes, potential causes, and resolutions. Ensure devices meet the necessary requirements to avoid update issues.

## Common OS Update Errors and Resolutions

### Error: The attempt to check for an available update failed

**Problem:** The device cannot check for an available update.

**Cause:** Network connectivity issues or blocked access to mesu.apple.com.

**Resolution:**

- Ensure a stable network connection.
- Verify mesu.apple.com is not blocked by firewalls or security policies.
- Add mesu.apple.com to the allowed list for seamless access.

### Error: There is not enough space to download the update

**Problem:** The device lacks sufficient storage.

**Cause:** Insufficient free storage on the device.

**Resolution:** Monitor device storage proactively, notify users to free up space, use remote management tools for cleanup.

### Error: The download requires a fast or a more reliable network connection

**Problem:** The network is too slow or unstable.

**Cause:** Poor or unreliable network connections.

**Resolution:**

- Ensure devices are connected to a stable, high-speed network.
- Set up a [cached OS update server](https://support.apple.com/en-in/guide/deployment/depde72e125f/web) for faster internal distribution.
- Enable Cellular Data Updates: Go to Settings > Cellular > Data Mode, and select Allow More Data on 5G to prioritize 5G over Wi-Fi for updates and background tasks (This setting must be manually configured on the device, as it cannot be enabled through MDM due to Apple's restriction)

### Error: The update failed to download

**Problem:** The device is unable to download the update.

**Cause:** Network issues or blocked access to mesu.apple.com.

**Resolution:**

- Ensure reliable network connections and access to mesu.apple.com.
- Confirm sufficient battery level to avoid interruptions during download.

### Error: The update failed to install

**Problem:** The update was downloaded but could not be installed.

**Cause:** Network or device-related issues during installation.

**Resolution:**

- Troubleshoot specific device issues like low storage, outdated system components, or app conflicts.
- Use caching mechanisms to ensure updates are downloaded and installed successfully.
- Confirm sufficient battery level to prevent issues during installation.

### Error: Related to Passcode-Protected Devices

**Errors:**

- Passcode Required to Finish Updating the Device
- Set Privacy Policy is Interfering with Forced Updates
- Cannot Force an Update Because the Passcode Could Not be Cleared

**Problem:** Passcode or privacy settings prevent the device from completing the OS update, leading to errors.

**Cause:** These errors occur due to passcode requirements or privacy settings that interfere with forced updates.

**Resolution:** To ensure updates proceed on passcode-protected devices:

- **Enable Device Privacy:** Go to *Admin Tab > Privacy Settings* in the MDM console and ensure that **Reset Device Passcode** is enabled. This setting allows the system to manage passcode requirements and proceed with updates.
- **Enable Forced OS Updates:** In the update policy, select **Force OS Updates** to allow updates to bypass the passcode lock if necessary.

After the update, users with a passcode profile will be prompted to set a new passcode.

**Note:** To clear a passcode on iOS/iPadOS 13 or later using MDM, a special security token is required. This token is automatically set up during device enrolment. If a device was updated from iOS/iPadOS 12 to iOS/iPadOS 13 after being enrolled, you may need to re-enroll it to use the Clear Passcode feature. Devices already running iOS/iPadOS 13 or above at the time of enrolment won't face this issue. Make sure your devices are updated to the latest iOS/iPadOS version for seamless performance.

For more details on the impacts of iOS/iPadOS 13 updates on mobile device management, refer to this [knowledge base article](https://www.manageengine.com/mobile-device-management/kb/mdm-ios-13-update-impacts.html).

By addressing the causes and errors outlined, administrators can maintain smooth update processes across devices. Ensure consistent monitoring of battery, storage, and network requirements to prevent update failures.