If it's time to switch out your media player software, the process is a lot less painful than you might think. Though iTunes and Windows Media Player aren't designed to work together, you can import files from one player to another without much trouble. Some file conversions may be necessary if you have music files that are not in MP3 format. The version of Windows that you are using will not make a difference in this process.
Windows Media Player to iTunes
Step 1
Open the "File" menu. Click "Add Folder to Library."
Step 2
Browse your local files to find your music folder. For most users, this will be the "My Music" folder, though you may have named it something different. Select this folder and click "OK." If your audio files are in WMA format, a pop-up window will appear.
Step 3
Click "Convert" on the pop-up window. Choose your file format--MP3 is usually the best option, as it gives you the freedom to use your music files with many different media player software or physical MP3 players. AAC format should only be used if you are planning to play it on a device that uses AAC format as a default. Once the conversion is complete, you will be able to access your music through iTunes.
iTunes to Windows Media Player
Step 1
Launch iTunes. Open the "Edit" menu. Select "Preferences." Click "Advanced." Click "Importing." Select "MP3 Encoder" from the "Import Using" drop-down menu.
Step 2
Return to the iTunes library. Select all music files that are not in MP3 format. Right-click your selection and click "Convert Selection to MP3." Depending on the number of files you have selected, this process can take a long time. Once the conversion is complete, exit iTunes.
Step 3
Launch Windows Media Player. Press the "F3" key. A drop-down menu will appear. Select your iTunes music folder from the available folders. Click "OK." Your converted MP3 files will be transferred to Windows Media Player.
Warning
- Some MP3s purchased through iTunes cannot be converted from AAC to MP3, due to DRM restrictions. As of Match 2011, Windows Media Player cannot support AAC playback.
