Q: Load iTunes to a new computer

Click here and pick the option which best fits your situation. If desired, put the entire library onto the external drive, launch iTunes with the Shift key held down, and choose it.

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Migrate an iTunes library from one computer to another

These are two possible approaches that will normally work to move an existing library to a new computer.

Method 1

1. Backup the library with this User Tip. (In your case you might want to this manually, simply copying the iTunes folder to the root of the external drive)
2. Deauthorize the old computer if you no longer want to access protected content on it. (Needs a network connection so skip this)
3. Restore the backup to your new computer using the same tool used to back it up.
4. Keep your backup up-to-date in future.

Method 2

Connect the two computers to the same network. Share your <User's Music> folder from the old computer and copy the entire iTunes library folder into the <User's Music> folder on the new one. Again, deauthorize the old computer if no longer required. (Can you get a local connection or is that down too?)

Both methods should give the new computer a working clone of the library that was on the old one. As far as iTunes is concerned this is still the "home" library for your devices so you shouldn't have any issues with iTunes wanting to erase and reload.

I'd normally recommend method 1 since it establishes an ongoing backup for your library.

Note if you have iOS devices and haven't moved your contacts and calendar items across then you should create one dummy entry of each in your new profile and iTunes should  merge the existing data from the device.

If your media folder has been split out from the main iTunes folder you may need to do some preparatory work to make it easier to move. See Make a split library portable. (If you need to tweak the library but cannot manage it on the old computer I should be able to help repair broken links on the new one.)

Should you be in the unfortunate position where you are no longer able to access your original library or a backup then then see Recover your iTunes library from your iPod or iOS device for advice on how to set up your devices with a new library with the maximum preservation of data.

tt2

tt2, can you take a look at this thread regarding iTunes and Windows? Ripped CD's to itunes on windows 10. Lost 130 out of 150 CD's that were Ripped'

Thanks.

tt2

I've seen it. Thanks again for your valuable assistance.

Any time.

tt2

Yes, but that computer doesn’t need to be connected to the Internet.

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