Restoring an iPod is never pretty. It is often complicated and frustrating for someone having problems with their device to lose everything from playlists to movies to songs. For some, this type of loss is devastating, but it cannot always be avoided. However, it does not have to be so aggravating if done properly.

First and foremost, make sure you have the most recent version of iTunes and device firmware. If you do not, you want to upgrade at least to the latest version of iTunes. You can always update the firmware after the restore, and depending on the issue with your device, you may not be able to properly update the firmware before the restore. Connect your iPod, and then select its main screen listed under Devices in the left panel. This will give you all the data on your iPod.

From this screen, you will see an Upgrade button and a Restore button. You want to click the Restore button, it will then pop up and ask you if you want to back up your iPod first. This once again depends on the issue; if you think something on the iPod is causing the problem, do not back up your data, because once you reload it back onto the device, you may experience the same problem. If you are just restoring for the heck of it, feel free to backup the device as you see fit. Follow the prompts and within a few minutes, it will be as if your iPod is brand new.

Restoring should always be a viable option if you are having issues with your iPod. If you back up your music, movies and other information on the iPod, you should not have problems putting that data back onto the unit after restoring it. If you are having issues with the device, and it is still covered under warranty, Apple will try to walk you through the restore process. If you know how to do it ahead of time, it will give you the chance to solve the problem first before referring to your warranty.