Access One iTunes Library from Two PCs

Tags: FileSharing | iTunes Library File | LAN | Multiple Libraries
Added On: 27th Jan 08
Links: [site]
It is possible to read and edit a single iTunes Library File from a shared location, (eg. a NAS) from two computers simultaneously. You can edit track names, ratings, artwork and other tags, as well as racking up a playcount from two different computers!
Note: Using a NAS is better because neither computer will depend on the other being on.
This guide will walk you through setting it up on your home network (on 2 PCs).
- Install iTunes on both computers.
- On one computer – henceforth [PC-A] – make the library accessible to the whole network.
- Map this folder to a specific drive letter on that computer, eg “Z:/”. (Read how to do this).
- Note: this may requires setting up a shared folder. You may find this article useful for help choosing where the library file is stored.
- Make sure the “iTunes Music Folder Location” (‘Edit’ > ‘Prefs’ > ‘Advanced’ tab > ‘General’ subtab) is set to a shared location too.
- On the second computer [PC-B], choose the location of your library to be the same as that of PC-A; the one on the network.
- Also change the location of the music folder, as in step [4], to the same as PC-A.
- Map this network folder to a drive of the same letter as PC-A. (Read “Mapping a Network Drive“).
- You should finally check “Copy files to iTunes Music Folder when adding to library” so that the two libraries are stored together on the shared storage.
- This does not go without a glitch.
- If you try to edit the tags on a track in one library, then instantly begin playback of that track on either computer, you will see an error along the lines of “The iTunes Library File cannot be saved…”.
- Bump into any other problems on the way? Let us know in the comments!


Is anyone else having the problem that despite following the tutorial itunes will claims to not know where the files are and puts an exclamation mark against each file- browsing to them works fine.
I have followed the tutorial to the letter- very frustrating!