How to Factory Reset an Xbox 360

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

If your Xbox 360 gaming console is not working as intended and you've exhausted all other possible repair steps or you want to give it to someone else, you can reset it to factory defaults. This guide will help you with that process.

2. Factory Reset

This will remove any and all data and settings from your console, and you will need to re-setup the device, as if you first purchased it.

Format Hard Drive

This clears the data, and makes sure the hard drive in your Xbox 360 is in good health.

The format can take a very long time, depending on the size and speed of your drive, as well as the type of format you choose.

1. From the Xbox dashboard screen, choose Settings > System.
   

1. Choose Storage.
   

1. Highlight your Hard Drive or Memory Unit, then choose Device Options by pushing Y on your controller.
   

1. Choose Format.
   

1. You will receive a warning, reminding you that this erases all data on your device. Choose Yes.
   

1. Your Xbox 360 will reboot and format the hard drive.