Xbox:Factory Resetting a Stock Console

A hidden factory reset feature, which reformats the E/X/Y/Z partitions (notably excepting Xbox Live accounts, which reside outside the partitioned area) and resets EEPROM settings is present in the official dashboards. It requires a console-specific code derived from the HDD key.

It is not particularly useful, as a variety of more through/faster/more specific approaches are available once the HDD key is known and/or the console is running a custom BIOS, but is mentioned for historical and cultural completeness, given that the first publicly available code generator was released only as of 2023-9-5:

1. Obtain the HDD key from the Xbox:EEPROM.
2. Use CitricDolphin's calculator
3. Boot the official dashboard, then go to System Info.
4. Enter the code, which consists of Y followed by a sequence of four inputs, either A/X/Y button presses or directions on the left stick.
5. Select Yes to confirm, and wait approximately one minute for the operation to complete.