There’s nothing wrong with selling an Xbox you’ve used to someone else who may need it or will use it more often than you. No need to worry about the memory that you have filled with your favorite games because everything can be reset and be like new again.
This process, called a factory reset, is embedded by Microsoft for all versions of its console, from the Xbox One X to its newest. Factory reset will delete all personal files and associations from the console, including saved games, achievements, settings and accounts. All of that is stored in the cloud if your console is synced with Xbox Live, which happens automatically when connected to the internet. So, make sure you are connected to the internet before starting the reset.
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If you are ready to factory reset your Xbox, follow the steps below. Also note, you need access to a Windows PC to do this.
- Step 1: Log in and press the Xbox button in the middle of the controller, to open the wizard.
- Step 2: Navigate to the System menu and select Settings.
- Step 3: Select System then Console Info.
- Step 4: Click Reset Console.
- Step 5: At this point, you have the option to reset and delete everything or reset and save games & apps. You can also still cancel the intention to reset at this stage.
Reset from Xbox Startup Troubleshooter
If you cannot boot the console, you can perform a factory reset using the Xbox Startup Troubleshooter. Certain Xbox Ones don’t support this feature, but it can’t hurt to check your device.
- Step 1: Turn off your console completely and disconnect the power and network cables for at least 30 seconds.
- Step 2: Plug the power cord back in and follow the next steps.
- Step 3: Hold down the Eject and Bind buttons on your console.
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The Eject button is on the front of the Xbox One console right next to the disk drive, while the Bind button is on the left side, directly adjacent to the disk drive. On the Xbox One X and Xbox One S, the two buttons are on the front of the console, with the Bind button just below the Xbox button on the right edge. The Xbox One S Digital doesn’t have an Eject button, so the Bind and Xbox buttons will do the trick.
- Step 4: Once you have held down both buttons, press the Xbox (power) button on the front of the console.
- Step 5: Release the Xbox button, but continue to hold the Eject and Bind button for 10 to 15 seconds.
- Listen for two tones before releasing this button. The Xbox Startup Troubleshooter will appear immediately.
- Step 6: Select Reset This Xbox from the settings and proceed with the factory reset.
