If your iPad’s date and time are incorrect, it can fail to verify Apple’s update servers.
If your iPad has its own SIM/eSIM and supports 5G, you can lift the Wi-Fi restriction in settings: If your iPad’s date and time are incorrect,
However, there are several ways to bypass this restriction or fix it if you are actually on Wi-Fi and still seeing the error. Why You See This Error on Wi-Fi Sometimes an iPad fails to recognize a 5GHz
Some newer routers (like Xfinity gateways) combine 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands. Sometimes an iPad fails to recognize a 5GHz band as a standard Wi-Fi network. VPNs or security apps (like Norton) can interfere
Seeing the message on your iPad can be frustrating, especially if you have a fast cellular connection or a nearby hotspot that should work. This prompt typically appears because iPadOS restricts large system updates to "standard" Wi-Fi networks to prevent massive data overages or network congestion.
VPNs or security apps (like Norton) can interfere with your iPad's ability to get a valid IP address, making the system think it isn't truly connected to the internet.