Computer crashed lost everything how can i get my ipod songs back?

Question

hi i recently had to reset my computer and all my information was lost including my ipod software. now i have no clue how to get my ipod up and running without deleting the songs on my ipod.i need step by step instructions on how to do this i dont know were to begin. someone please help me. do i have to reinstall itunes from the website again? HELP!

Answer 1

Download the latest iTunes and reinstall it, you'll get it here: iTunes
There are a number of third party utilities that you can use to retrieve the files from your iPod. This is just a selection.
YamiPod Mac and Windows Versions
PodUtil Mac and Windows Versions
iPodCopy Mac and Windows Versions
PodPlayer Windows Only
iPodAgent Windows Only
Senuti Mac Only
Have a look at the web pages and documentation for these and pick one you are happy that you understand and can use. They are generally quite straightforward.
There is also a manual method of accessing the iPod's hard drive through Windows posted in this thread: iPod to iTunes
You may already be using the iPod in manual update mode. However when you connect, if you are getting a message that your iPod is linked to a different library and asking if you want to link to this one and replace all your songs etc, click *No*. Your iPod should appear in the iTunes source list. Change the update setting in Preferences>iPod to "manually manage songs and playlists" Managing Your Songs Manually
You can also use a keyboard command to prevent your iPod auto-syncing with iTunes. While connecting the iPod to the computer on Windows, hold down the Shift + Ctrl keys (on a Mac you hold down the Option and Command (⌥ and ⌘) keys). This will stop the iPod from auto-syncing with iTunes and the iPod will appear in the source list. Wait until you are sure the iPod has mounted, and that it will not auto sync and then you can let the keys go. This may take between 3 and 30 seconds depending on your computer. Then go to Preferences>iPod and check the "Manually manage songs and playlists" box.
Keep your iPod in manual mode until you have reloaded your iTunes and you are happy with your playlists etc then it will be safe to return it auto-sync again.
Another way is to connect your iPod and before it starts to sync, click the little X on the right hand side of the display beside the "Do Not Disconnect" message. The display is the little window to the right of the iTunes control buttons: iPod Interface
Or you could look at the method described in this link: How to keep iTunes from automatically updating your iPod
Keep your iPod in manual mode until you have reloaded your iTunes and you are happy with your playlists etc then it will be safe to return it auto-sync again.
Go with whichever method you feel most comfortable. Remember what I said above, if you are getting a message that your iPod is linked to a different library and asking if you want to link to this one and replace all your songs etc, click *No*.