Adding Restrictions to iTunes

In this lesson for iTunes on the Mac, we are going to look at how we add restrictions to iTunes. With restrictions we can restrict access to podcasts, internet radio, Apple Music, shared libraries, as well as restrict content based on ratings.

Accessing iTunes Restrictions
To access iTunes restrictions, we need to go to iTunes preferences. This is located under File in the menu bar. When you select Preferences, a new window will open. Make sure you select the Restrictions in this window.

Restricting Access to Media Types and Categories
The first option you’ll see in the Restrictions window is where you can disable various media types and categories. Just select the media type or category to restrict access to it. This option basically disables access to whatever you check or select.

Restricting Access by Rating
The first option you have is restricting by ratings in the country. This is what iTunes will use as a base for restricting content. The next option, Show content ratings in the library, does not restrict anything. What it does when selected is just show the ratings in iTunes when you are browsing your media.

From there, we can set different restrictions options. Our first option is for Music with explicit content. We also have our Movies, and then we have our TV shows. And then if you want to restrict Books with explicit sexual content, you select the last option.

Locking iTunes Preferences
After you set all your restricting, you’ll want to lock your preferences. If you do not do this last step, anyone accessing your iTunes will be able to change the restrictions. If you lock it, they’ll need to know the user account password for your computer before they can make any changes. To lock it, click on the padlock in the lower left corner. Once you do that, you’ll need to click on again and enter the user account password for the computer before any changes can be made.

See this Lesson in Action
If you want to see this lesson in action, take a look at the video above.

Lesson tags: Mac Tutorials
Back to: Tutor for iTunes for the Mac > Media Settings and Restrictions