How to Deauthorize a Computer That Has Crashed From iTunes

Apple's iTunes software allows you to authorize five computers to use with your iTunes account. In other words, when you download an album, video or other media from the iTunes Store, you can access it on a maximum of five computers, which you select by entering your Apple ID and password on each computer that you want to authorize. If one of your authorized computers crashes or otherwise becomes impossible for you to access, you can still deauthorize it using any other authorized computer; however, for security purposes, you will have to deauthorize your other computers as well.

Instructions

1. Open iTunes, which appears in your Music folder (Windows) or your Applications folder (Mac). Click the “iTunes Store” link in the left column and wait for the store to load. You will need an active Internet connection.

2. Click the “Account” link, appearing in the upper right corner of the Store window. If you are already logged in, it will show your email address or Apple ID. Select “Account” from the drop-down menu.

3. Enter your Apple ID and password in the boxes shown and click the “View Account” button in the lower right corner.

4. Click the “Deauthorize All” button on the right side of the Account Settings window. A pop-up window will appear, asking you to confirm the changes. Click “OK.” Note that the “Deauthorize All” button will only appear if you have five computers already authorized. If you have less than five authorized computers, you will need to authorize a fifth computer in order to receive this option.

5. Reauthorize all of the computers that you want to maintain your account privileges. Simply open iTunes on each computer, click “Advanced” in the menu bar and select “Authorize.” Then enter your Apple ID and password.

References

• Apple: About iTunes Store Authorization and Deauthorization