How to Backup iPod Music To Computer

With a USB cable and iTunes software, you can backup your iPod.

Your iPod automatically backs up archived music files, personal preferences and other settings every time it auto-syncs with your computer. If you turned off automatic iTunes syncing, you should periodically perform manual backup using iTunes. With an updated backup file, you can restore your iPod's files to a previous state when an error erases your music or corrupts iPod software.

Things You'll Need

• Apple iTunes software
• Apple iPod USB cable

Instructions

1. Open iTunes.

2. Plug one end of an iPod USB cable into your iPod, and plug the other end into your computer. Your iTunes software automatically detects the iPod, and it appears underneath the "Devices" heading in iTunes.

3. Right-click on the iPod, found underneath the "Devices" heading.

4. Click "Back Up" from the list of options. Your iPod is backed up and synced with iTunes. The process may take several minutes. Do not disconnect your iPod until a prompt tells you that the backup has finished.

Tips & Warnings

• Apple does not support the use of third party programs for adding music to your iPod or ripping music from iPods, and the backup process doesn't support third party files. To ensure safekeeping of all your music files, you should add your songs to your iTunes account, even if you purchase music using a different program.

References

• Apple: Backing Up, Updating, and Restoring Your iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch Software
• Apple: iPhone and iPod Touch, About Backups