iPhone 5 suddenly developed the "Searching.

iPhone 5 suddenly developed the "Searching..." problem (no cell service, only wifi). After researching, I did a backup on iTunes, then restored all factory settings. Now, phone will not activate! Error message is "Could Not Activate iPhone because activation server is temporarily unavailable. Try connecting to iTunes or try again in a few minutes." Have tried dozens of times through iTunes and wifi, even bought new SIM card, still SAME ERROR.

Any ideas? Shows Wi-Fi is connected, and still Searching...Comm board maybe?

Thanks in advance. This site is awesome!