How to Transfer an iPod to a New Computer After the Old Computer Crashed

You can transfer music from one computer to another with your iPod.

Your computer crashed and you lost access to your iTunes library -- an iTunes library that you haven't backed up in ages. Before you start to panic, understand that because your iPod is a high-capacity storage device, you can use it to copy all of your music and audiobooks to a new computer. This procedure works for all iPod models except the iPod Touch.

Things You'll Need

• USB cable

Instructions

1. Install iTunes on your new computer. Download the program for free from the iTunes website at apple.com/itunes.

2. Connect your iPod to your new computer with a USB cable. Once connected, it automatically installs the device drivers onto your new computer.

3. Go to the "Store" menu in iTunes and select the option to "Authorize your Computer." Enter your Apple ID and password to complete the authorization process.

4. Go to the "File" menu and select "Transfer Purchases." All of the iTunes purchases stored on your iPod are transferred to your newly-authorized computer.

Tips & Warnings

• You cannot use this method to transfer iPod music from a PC to a Mac computer, or vice versa.

• Music uploaded to your iPod from a CD or other format needs to be reloaded into iTunes -- it won't transfer directly from your iPod.

References

• Apple Support: iTunes Store: Transferring Purchases From Your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to a Computer