Error 4010
Apple Music Apple Music
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
Error 4010 means Apple Music can't authorize your computer to play purchased music. This is a DRM (copy protection) issue — your computer needs to be linked to your Apple ID. Authorizing the computer in the Music app usually fixes it instantly.
Affected Models
- Apple Music on Mac
- Apple Music on Windows iTunes
- Apple Music on PC
Common Causes
- Computer not authorized to play this Apple ID's music
- Exceeded the 5-device authorization limit
- iTunes or Music app needs an update
- Signed in with the wrong Apple ID
How to Fix It
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Open the Music app (or iTunes on Windows), click the Account menu, and select Authorize This Computer.
On a Mac, the Account menu is in the top menu bar.
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Enter your Apple ID and password when prompted, then click Authorize.
Make sure you're using the same Apple ID that purchased or subscribed to the music.
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If you see a message saying 5 computers are already authorized, go to account.apple.com, sign in, and click Deauthorize All Computers.
You can only use Deauthorize All once every 12 months — use it carefully.
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After deauthorizing all, re-authorize your current computer using the Music app > Account > Authorize This Computer.
This resets your device count back to 1.
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Make sure you're signed into the Music app with the correct Apple ID: Account > Sign In.
If someone else's Apple ID is active on this computer, that's why your music won't play.
When to Call a Professional
This is a DRM authorization issue. Apple Support can help if deauthorizing all computers doesn't work.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many computers can I authorize with Apple Music?
Apple allows up to 5 computers to be authorized per Apple ID. This includes both Mac and Windows PCs.
What happens when I deauthorize all computers?
All 5 computer slots are cleared at once, and your count resets to zero. You can then re-authorize the computers you actually use. This option is only available once every 12 months.
Does Error 4010 affect my iCloud Music Library?
No. iCloud Music Library sync is separate from computer authorization. Error 4010 only affects playing DRM-protected purchased content on that specific computer.