Q: Need to move itunes library from one pc to another pc

Click here and pick the option which best fits your situation.

(138303)

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.
2. Deauthorize the old computer if you no longer want to access protected content on it.
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.

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 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.

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

I have built a new computer and I want to start from scratch; like it is the first iTunes installation. I really do not want to copy the old library to the new computer and I only have few purchased albums (<10); everything else has been imported from CD's over the years.

Here is what I am considering ... deauthorize all computers from the old computer, uninstall iTunes and then install iTunes on the new computer; would my purchased music still be available fro download to the new computer?

It depends on what country you’re in and whether the music is available in your country’s iTunes Store.

(138311)

Yes, normally. See Download your past purchases - Apple Support. You don't need to bother with the uninstall phase. If you have some really old (pre September 2009) purchases they might not come through. Audiobooks, iPod Games and selected video content are also excluded from repeat download, but it sounds like that won't affect you. Anything that you realise that you do want can be copied over into <Media Folder>\Automatically Add to iTunes to add it to your new library.

tt2

Thanks turingtest2, I looked and 2010 is the oldest that I have found so far and all I have is music, nothing else.

You're welcome.

tt2