Downgrade iPad 2 from iOS 6 to iOS 5
You can now downgrade from iOS 6 to iOS 5, 5.1, 5.1.1 or iOS 4.x on your iPad 2 using Redsn0w. The latest version has added the ability to downgrade iOS software on an iPad 2 (A5 device). You can also restore an iPad 2 from iOS 5x. to iOS 5x using Redsn0w (if you try this in iTunes your iOS will be updated to the latest version).
How to Downgrade an iPad 2 from iOS 6 to iOS 5
Step 1. Download Redsn0w for Mac or Windows.
0.9.15b1 (Mac)
0.9.15b1 (Windows)
Step 2. To downgrade you will need SHSH blobs for any version of iOS 4. If you previously jailbroke your iPad 2 using any iOS 4 version, Redsn0w may be able to retrieve the blobs for you. You do not need the iOS 4x SHSH blobs to restore from iOS 5x to iOS 5x.
Step 3. To see if Redsn0w can get your SHSH blobs:
1. Plug your iPad into your computer and open Redsn0w.
2. Click on Extras-> SHSH blobs-> Query.
You need to see some version of iOS 4 listed to proceed with downgrading iOS 6 to iOS 5. The photo below shows iOS 4.3 and 4.3.1 have been found.
Step 4. If you have any version of iOS 4 blobs, you can proceed to downgrade your software by downloading two IPSW files. Make sure both versions are for your iPad 2 model (Wifi, GSM or CDMA). If you are restoring iOS 5x to iOS 5x you only need the iOS 5 iPSW.
1.Download an IPSW for the version of iOS 5 you want to have installed.
2.Download an IPSW for a version of iOS 4 that matches your SHSH blobs.
Step 5. After both IPSW files have downloaded go to Extras-> Even More-> and click Restore in Redsn0w.
Step 6. Click on iPSW and locate your iOS 5x iPSW. If you are restoring you will be done after Redsn0w finishes this process.
Step 7. You should get a popup informing you of the additional iOS 4 IPSW that is required. Click OK and locate the iOS 4 firmware.
Step 8. Click on Remote to fetch the blobs from Cydia or Local if you have the blobs store on your computer.
Step 9. Redsn0w should start downgrading your firmware.
You may get the following message:
Normal DFU Mode Required
Please manually enter DFU mode on your iPhone before proceeding. You are currently in Recovery Mode.
To manually enter DFU mode:
1. Press and hold the Home button and the Sleep/Wake at the same time.
2. After exactly 10 seconds release the Sleep/Wake button and continue to hold the Home button until you get the message that you have successfully entered DFU mode.
After Redsn0w has completed the process you should get the message that the restore / downgrade was successful.
You can set the iPad up as new or restore it from a backup to return your settings and apps. You can also jailbreak the iPad 2 with iOS 5x using Absinthe.