If I plug my ipod back into my computer will all the data be lost from what is already on the ipod?

Question

I have had to put my computer back to original factory settings and was unable to save my ipod tunes library so if I put the ipod back in will all the data be lost?

Answer 1

if your itunes is set to automatically update your ipod it will.

it's different to change the settings on different versions of itunes, but on mine, what i do is i plug my ipod in and click on "summary" and it'll have some boxes you can check and uncheck one will say something like "automatically sync i pod" i'm not sure exactly what it says.. just make sure that box is un-checked, and then you'll manually have to add songs to your i pod.. but, you can keep your music that's on your ipod already.

but next time, before you switch computers/reset your computer, go here http://support.apple.com/kb/HT1329 and it tells you how to transfer your music using your ipod, even if it's the same computer, just restored, it still works.

Answer 2

Yes. Your data will be deleted from the iPod. BUT there's a way to work around that: When you connect the iPod to the computer IMMEDIATELY hold down the SHIFT+CTRL keys. Open iTunes and wait a few moments (until your iPod has finished loading.) Download SharePod from http://www.getsharepod.com (and .Net Framework 2.0 from Microsoft - the link will be under Help on the GetSharePod page,) open SharePod once you have .Net Framework installed and click the Transfer to PC button. SharePod will create a folder in your documents folder (or you can specify which folder you wish your music to be transferred to.)

I suggest you manually manage your iPod, so you don't have to go through this EVERY time you reformat your computer. iPods were meant to act like an external harddrive.