We report on the direct electrodeposition of nickel and cobalt nanowire arrays within the nanopores of ordered porous alumina films prepared by a two-step anodization. SEM and TEM images reveal that the pore arrays are regularly arranged throughout the alumina film. X-ray diffraction and TEM analysis show that the nickel and cobalt nanowires are single crystalline with highly preferential orientation. The aspect ratio of nanowires is over 300. M-H hysteresis loops determined by VSM indicate that the nanowire arrays obtained possess obvious magnetic anisotropy. Because of proper square ratio and coercivity the nanowire arrays of nickel seem to be more suitable candidates for perpendicular magnetic recording medium than those of cobalt. (C) 2004 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.