Connecting iPod Classic to iTunes (latest) on Win11

Trying to help a mate who's got an older and early Apple iPod classic (e.g. not even a model number on back).

He recently got told by the computer store "specialist" that it would work fine under Win11, but that proves to be false so far?

We installed the iTunes app from the Microsfot Store, but the iPod doesn't show up or can be sync'd.

We even installed "something" which allowed the USB connection to recognise it as an external USB disk. But still no go! So removed that component app as a waste of time.

We've reinstalled iTunes from App store and also the separate components 64-bit version, but no joy!

Followed myriads of so-called hints on YouTube and Google searches, but the Apple Mobile Devices type of thing never appear under the System Devices List or USB components on what is the latest and update-installed Win11! Even trying to install it separately (even though Win11 is supposed to include it) didn't change anything!

So, looking for successful solutions, or any options which you helpful people can suggest, please?