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How do I reset and/or restore my iPod?
An explanation of the steps for fixing common problems with an iPod.
When someone has a problem with their iPod, people mostly tell them "Reset it!" or "You need to restore it." Here's how to do that.
1. Reset an iPod:
Toggle the Hold switch to on, then back to off (none of the red is showing).
Press and hold down the Menu and Select buttons (as shown in the picture) for 6-10 seconds, until you see the Apple logo.
For many problems, you may have to do this several times. The iPod may be hung up on several things so you have to tell it: "Reset that. Now reset this. Yes, reset that too" and etc.
2. Restore an iPod:
Warning: When you restore and iPod, you delete everything on it (songs, pictures, movies, files, games, firmware, etc.) Hey! That means any stuff that's on the iPod, but not in the iTunes library, will be lost. After deleting everything, iTunes reloads the iPod software with a fresh copy (referred to as "factory settings").
Using iTunes:
When the iPod is connected, select it in the Source list in iTunes. Under the Summary tab, there is a button named "Restore." Click it. Select the restore option you want then sit back. A progress bar will show you the status of the restore. When it's done, you'll see a message like "Leave iPod connected to computer to complete restore." Now the iPod will show a progress bar. Do not disconnect during this part. When it's done, the iTunes Setup Assistant will prompt you to name and configure the iPod.
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