How to Restore Songs From iPod to Computer

by Christopher Capelle, Demand Media

Apple's iPod, introduced in 2001, turned the entire music industry on its ear by making digital music the default format. Managing your digital music library is generally a seamless operation, but there are some issues to consider, namely Apple's policies, which do not allow syncing an iPod to multiple computers. However, transferring music from an "orphan" iPod to a second computer is possible, but takes some work to accomplish successfully.

Items you will need

iPod sync cable
Computer with iTunes installed

Step 1

Familiarize yourself with Apple's digital music policy. Apple allows iPod users to sync with a single computer only. This can present a problem for the user who has an iPod full of music that can't be synced with any other computer. Basically, you must use one computer as your "master" when it comes to syncing your iPod.

Step 2

Determine the reason why you are unable to sync your iPod with the computer containing your music library. Having a damaged iTunes library (usually caused by a corrupted hard drive) or no longer being able to access the computer are the two biggest reasons to have to restore music from an iPod.

Step 3

Restore your iTunes Library file from a backup if you have one. Even if your music isn't backed up, you can sync as long as your iTunes Library document is intact. If you are running Mac OS X.5 or later, you have the option of backing up your entire hard drive (or selected folders) using Time Machine. If you can restore your iTunes Library, then you will be able to sync your iPod normally. However, if your iTunes Library isn't available, there are other options.

Step 4

Surf the Web for a third-party solution to transfer the contents off your iPod including all music (whether purchased through iTunes or not) as well as video content and photos. iRepo and TouchCopy are two such apps, but these types of software tend to come and go on a regular basis. While these solutions are perfectly legal, many of these products are freeware and are non-sanctioned hacks, so there is no recourse if things go wrong. If all of the music on your iPod was purchased from Apple's iTunes Store, restoring it is a very simple process, as described below.

Step 5

Configure your new computer to be authorized to play your purchased music by clicking on the "iTunes Store" icon in the left of the iTunes window and signing in by clicking on the "Account" icon in the upper right corner of the window. Then connect your iPod to the new computer, and select "Transfer Purchases" when prompted.

Tips

You can charge your iPod on any computer, even if you are unable to sync.

Warnings

Be careful not to reformat your iPod before you complete the restore process.
Pirating music is illegal and violators may be subject to prosecution.

References

Apple iTunes Store: Terms and Conditions

Resources

About the Author

Christopher Capelle is a freelance copywriter with over two decades of experience. Subjects of his writing include the business and technology fields, consumer products and home repair/improvement. He graduated from The University of Connecticut and earned a master's degree in journalism from Iona College.