Hello,
Thank you for reaching out to Hexnode Connect!
You are observing a few distinct behaviors here related to Apple’s Automated Device Enrollment (ADE) framework and recovery workflows. Let’s break down what is happening with both devices:
Device 1: Setup Bypass & Activation Lock
- Skipping Setup Screens: This occurs because Return to Service is enabled in the ADE profile assigned to this device (Admin > Apple Business Manager > ADE > Devices). This feature allows supervised devices to automatically erase, activate, and re-enroll into Hexnode without requiring manual interaction in the Setup Assistant. Reconnecting via cellular is expected if valid Wi-Fi credentials aren’t available during the automated setup.
- Activation Lock Failure: The “Clear Activation Lock” option in Hexnode is meant for user-based Find My locks. For enterprise ADE-owned devices, Activation Lock should be managed directly from your Apple Business Manager portal rather than using the prompt in the Hexnode wipe menu.
Device 2: Offline Locked Device & Recovery Mode Network Error
When a device is locked out and cannot receive remote MDM commands, restoring via Recovery Mode is indeed the correct approach. The network error during restore happens because the computer’s software (Finder/iTunes) is failing to download or verify the iOS firmware package with Apple’s verification servers (gs.apple.com).
To get past the network error and restore the device:
- Use Apple Configurator: If you have access to a Mac, use Apple Configurator to restore the device instead of Finder/iTunes—it handles firmware downloads and device recovery much more reliably.
- Direct Connection: Connect the iPhone directly to the host computer using a known-good Apple cable, bypassing USB hubs or adapters.
- Network/Security Adjustments: Temporarily disable VPNs, corporate firewalls, or SSL-inspection software on the computer that might be blocking communication with Apple’s servers.
Once the restore completes, the device will activate and, thanks to its ADE record in Apple Business Manager, seamlessly prompt for re-enrollment into Hexnode during initial setup.
I hope this helps you resolve both enrollment issues! Please feel free to reach out if you have any further questions.
Best regards,
George
Hexnode UEM.
What's new 
25 Views
