Content

• To step
• Method 1 of 2: Using a computer that you have synced with your iPod
• Method 2 of 2: Using a different computer
• Warnings

Oh no! You just wanted to play some music on your iPod, but now you can't remember which password you set. Maybe you have a few default passwords or your password is a code that stands for a specific day or year. If you still don't know after many tries, you will have to unlock your iPod in a different way. This does involve backups and recovery processes, so before you do this, think again if you really do not remember your password.

To step

Method 1 of 2: Using a computer that you have synced with your iPod

1. Connect your iPod to the computer. The main computer is the computer on which you have stored the data from your iPod. Here you will find all original files and data. Use the USB cable to connect the two devices.
2. Open iTunes. If you have yet to download the latest version of the program, you can do so now. Check if your iPod is recognized and appears on the screen. You should automatically see a link appear in iTunes.
3. Right click on the device on the left side of the screen and select "Backup". If you don't have a recent backup, you're simply out of luck. There's no getting around it - your original files will be lost. Always back up your music!
   • Once you connect the iPod to your computer, iTunes will ask if you want to back up your files. So it may be that you have made a backup, but you are not aware of this. Don't worry and just find out if the files on your iPod are stored somewhere.
4. Once you have made a backup, you can restore the iPod. The iPod will now be returned to the state it was in when it was last backed up. Recent files will therefore be lost. But better than nothing, right?

Method 2 of 2: Using a different computer

1. Download and install the most recent version of iTunes on your computer. You can find the program at http://www.apple.com/itunes/.
2. Open iTunes. Once you open the program, you can connect your iPod to your computer with the appropriate cable.
3. Select your iPod. At the top right of iTunes, an icon for your iPod should appear. Click this to open the control panel for your iPod.
4. Click on Restore. iTunes now offers you several options:
   • Option 1: Restore. This will return your iPod to the state it was in when it was last backed up.
   • Option 2: Use the same version. The iPod will now be restored by reinstalling the same software, even if a newer version of it is available.
   • Option 3: Use the latest version. This will update your iPod to the latest software. Choose this option if this version of the software was already on your iPod.
   • Option 4: Restore and Update. This will restore and update your iPod. The most recent version of the software will now be loaded onto the device.
   • If you have a Mac, you will likely be asked for the administrator name and password.
5. Keep the iPod connected to your computer. The iTunes restore process may take a few minutes. It is very important that the iPod remains connected to the computer during this process.
6. Reset your iPod. Rename your iPod, set new preferences and possibly put your old music, videos and other things back on the device.

Warnings

• If you choose to restore your iPod, you will have to re-purchase paid apps, music, podcasts, and so on.
• If you enter the wrong password a few times, your iPod will be locked longer and longer. This starts with 1 minute, but then continues to 5, 10, 15 minutes and longer. So remember your password or write it down somewhere so you don't lose it.