How to Fix Broken Links in iTunes
If you change a file name or move your core iTunes music files, your iTunes library files might no longer work properly. This often happens when you organize your folders or play music from an external source, such as an MP3 player or external hard drive. Though frustrating, there are several steps to resolve this common problem.
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Instructions
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Instructions
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Attach any external hard drives, including MP3 players and iPods, that might contain your missing files.
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Within the iTunes interface, try playing the missing song file. If you are notified that the song file cannot be located, click "Locate" within the error message.
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Navigate to the location on your hard drive where you expect the file to be located. If you are unsure, try searching for the song title, artist name or file type. If you do not see a search field within the box, you can search by going to your operating system's search form.
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Once you locate the file, click the file and select "Open."
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Your iTunes file should automatically link to the new file location or name.
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Try playing the file within the iTunes library. If it works, you have successfully reconnected your iTunes library file to its location on your hard drive. If it does not work or is the incorrect file, you will need to repeat these steps or restore your missing file from a backup source, such as a CD. Otherwise, you might have permanently lost your media file.
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Tips & Warnings
Windows operating systems' search form can be found under "Start"; Mac operating systems' search form can be found under "Finder." You can try searching for the missing file(s) beforehand to reduce browsing time.
The default location for most iTunes folders is \Users\YourName\Music\iTunes\iTunes Music.
If there are other working files in your iTunes library, right click on one of the files, select "Get Info" and note the location of the file. Try searching in this folder for your missing file(s).
If you can't find the missing files, make sure to check your Recycling Bin or Trash. Restore the missing files and add them back to your iTunes library.
Always back up of files, especially downloaded media files that can easily be lost, moved or corrupted. You can use an external hard drive, CD, DVD, thumb drive, online file folder or numerous other storage options.
