Q: the ipod software update server could not be contacted

Update Server

Try:

- Powering off and then back on your router.

- iTunes for Windows: iTunes cannot contact the iPhone, iPad, or iPod software update server

- Change the DNS to either Google's or Open DNS servers

Public DNS — Google Developers

OpenDNS IP Addresses

- Try on another computer/network

- Wait if it is an Apple problem

I simply uninstalled iTunes and reinstalled the latest version of iTunes.  reconnected my ipod and could then connect for updates.

I found the solution, on windows XP, GO to START ON PC,   all programs, apple software update, it takes several minutes to complete the update on ITUNES