How to Move an iTunes Music Library to a Different Hard Drive on a Network

With iTunes 7, you have several different ways to transfer your music collection from one computer to another. Here's how to move your iTunes files to a computer connected to yours in a network.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Apple iTunes 7
• Computer
• Second hard drive on network

1. Open iTunes on your computer.

2. Choose "Preferences" from the iTunes menu (or, if you're using Windows, from the Edit menu).

3. Click "Advanced" and then the "General" tab.

4. Check both "Keep iTunes Music folder organized" and "Copy files to iTunes Music folder when adding to library."

5. Click "Change..." next to "iTunes Music folder location."

6. Choose the location you want to copy your library to. Click "New Folder" and type in a name for the folder.

7. Click "Create," then "Choose," then click "OK."

8. Choose "Consolidate Library" from the Advanced menu. Wait while iTunes finishes copying all your files.

9. Check that all information has been copied by right clicking on any song and selecting "Info."

10. Get rid of duplicate files to open up space.

Tips & Warnings

• Download all your CDs to iTunes to reduce clutter.

• See the Related eHows on the right for other ways to transfer your music files to another computer.

• Computers can fail at any time. Always back up your files.