I had this problem too, being told that something was wrong with SSL or TLS. My solution? Rapid click on the “Ok” and then back on your unactivated device in Itunes. Within 3 minutes my pre 2.0 iPhone was activated, with my previous “wait a few minutes” was fruitless after over 15 minutes of waiting.

I am assured that rapid clicking helped. The chances of getting that free server slot is just much higher if you click fast.