castoff13

Q: Transferring iTunes library from one PC to new PC

I would like to transfer my entire iTunes library from my old laptop to the new one and am searching for "understandable-to-the-layman" help. The Apple site refers to some cryptic process which makes scant reference to what needs to be done with respect to the existing library on the old computer. Also, it calls for the use of an external hard drive. So, two questions...what is the REAL step-by-step process? And, is there any way to transfer my library WITHOUT  buying an external hard drive just for this purpose?

Posted on Apr 7, 2016 8:19 AM

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Q: Transferring iTunes library from one PC to new PC

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  • by javaliga,

    javaliga javaliga Apr 7, 2016 8:57 AM in response to castoff13
    Level 4 (3,514 points)
    iCloud
    Apr 7, 2016 8:57 AM in response to castoff13

    So, I assume you found this too complicated:

     

    How to move your iTunes library to a new computer - Apple Support

     

    If so, here is another alternative which seems easier than the official one above:

     

    Transfer old iTunes Library to a new pc

     

    The choice is yours.  BTW, you shouldn't need to buy an external hard drive.  A thumb drive, memory stick, etc. should work just as well.

  • by turingtest2,

    turingtest2 turingtest2 Apr 7, 2016 9:48 AM in response to castoff13
    Level 10 (85,813 points)
    iPod
    Apr 7, 2016 9:48 AM in response to castoff13

    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. It isn't about this one time transfer, it is making sure that you still have your data if your computer is lost, stolen or breaks down.

     

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

     

    tt2