I physically moved all my music from one computer to the new one in the same locations. I want the new computer to have the exact settings as the old for itunes. If I export the library and the playlists and then import them, will this accomplish my goal?
Once all the data has been transferred onto the new computer, start ITunes on the new computer, use the import from folder tool, and tell iTunes where is the media library.
Worked smoothly for me except, the ratings (stars 1 to 5) seem to have been left behind.
Hoping someone has a fix, as I don't want to re-rate 3,500 songs.
Good luck
Copy over everything in the iTunes folder that you haven't already copied over...
These are two possible approaches that will normally work to move an existing library to a new computer.
Method 1
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 failed to move contacts and calendar items across 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
Hello turingtest2, I tried one of your scripts to move my iTunes library from my PC to my new MacBook. I was initially getting the "Copying files failed. The file name was invalid or too long." One of your scripts worked but it didnt transfer everything. I only have 8 gigs of music on my new computer out of my 14 gigs of music. I'm kind of stuck because I really don't know where to go to add the additional songs. Do I start over? How can I find the ones that are missing? All these files confuse me to be honest.
Thank you for your help!
I've replied in your thread.
tt2
Migrating to New Computer
