How to Successfully Change the Backup Location for iTunes on Your Device

How to Change the Backup Location of iTunes

In today’s digital age, it is crucial to regularly backup your iTunes library to ensure that your music, movies, and other important data are safe. By default, iTunes stores your backups on your Mac’s internal drive. However, this may not always be the most convenient option, especially if you have limited storage space or if you want to keep your backups on an external drive. In this article, we will guide you through the process of changing the backup location of iTunes on your Mac.

Step 1: Open iTunes

The first step in changing the backup location of iTunes is to open the application on your Mac. If you don’t have iTunes installed, you can download it from the Apple website for free.

Step 2: Access the Preferences

Once you have iTunes open, click on the “iTunes” menu at the top left corner of the screen. From the dropdown menu, select “Preferences.” This will open a new window with various tabs.

Step 3: Go to the General Tab

In the Preferences window, click on the “General” tab. This tab contains various settings related to iTunes, including the backup location.

Step 4: Change the Backup Location

Under the “General” tab, you will see a section labeled “Backup Location.” By default, it will show the internal drive of your Mac. To change the backup location, click on the “Change…” button next to the “Backup Location” field.

Step 5: Select a New Backup Location

A new window will open, displaying all available drives and storage devices connected to your Mac. Choose the external drive or another location where you want to store your iTunes backups. Click “Select Folder” to confirm your choice.

Step 6: Confirm the Change

After selecting a new backup location, return to the General tab in the Preferences window. You will now see the new location displayed under “Backup Location.” Click “OK” to save the changes.

Step 7: Start a New Backup

To ensure that your iTunes library is backed up to the new location, you need to start a new backup. Connect your iPhone, iPad, or iPod to your Mac using a USB cable. iTunes will automatically detect the device and prompt you to back it up. Click “Back Up Now” to start the backup process.

Conclusion

Changing the backup location of iTunes on your Mac is a straightforward process that can help you manage your storage space more efficiently. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can easily move your iTunes backups to an external drive or another location of your choice. Remember to perform regular backups to keep your data safe and secure.