Restore iTunes Library from Backup
ITunes library is a database which uses to organize your music. This library file store information about your iTunes library, such as what songs is available for iTunes to use, but they do not store the actual song. Two iTunes library files are created and maintained by iTunes for different purposes. The two iTunes library are:
ITunes library- iTunes library is a database of the songs in your library and the playlist you have created. Some song specific data is saved in the file. If you delete the file, iTunes create a new, empty copy when you open the application but song ratings, comments and other information will be lost. The iTunes Library is only used by iTunes.
ITunes library.xml- This contains some of the same information stored in the iTunes library file. The main purpose of this iTunes library.xml file is to make your music and playlist available to other application on your computer. If you delete the file then iTunes creates a new copy from the iTunes library file.
Restoring your iTunes library from backup will let you overcome a data loss or make moving the library much easier. Here are the ways to restore iTunes Library from Backup.
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If it is running, then quit iTunes on the computer and you will restore the iTunes library too.
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Attach the external hard-drive that contains the iTunes backup. Double click on the external hard drive icon to open it. Navigate through the hard drive to find iTunes folder you backed up to it.
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Open a new window on your computer in which you have plan to restore iTunes from backup. Then navigate through your computer to find the location to which you want to restore your iTunes library.
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When you have found the location, drag the backup iTunes folder to the open window on your computer, making sure to drag the backup the exact location you want the folder to reside. If there is already an iTunes library in this location, then you will be asked whether you want to replace the new one. This will delete the old one, so make sure that the one which you are restoring from backup has the latest content in it and if doesn’t then drag the folder to different location.
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Launch iTunes while holding down the option keys.
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After doing this, window will pop-up, asking you to Create Library, Quit or Choose Library. You click Choose Library.
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Windows will pop-up which will allow you to navigate through your computer. Do so and locate the iTunes folder which you have restored from backup.
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ITunes will now launch, suing the new library which you have restored from backup.
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If you have older iTunes Library which you have not deleted before and you want to delete it, it does not take an extra disk space. Before you do that, you make sure that the new library has all the new contents.
