What is Xbox 360 System Error E68? How to Fix Xbox 360 System Error E68?

What is Xbox 360 System error E68? Check this article to learn more about the causes of Xbox 360 System Error E68 and how to fix this error easily.

by Janani

Updated Jun 23, 2023

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What is Xbox 360 System Error E68? How to Fix Xbox 360 System Error E68?
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What is Xbox 360 System Error E68?

The Xbox 360 system error E68 is an error code that appears on the console, indicating a hardware problem. When this error occurs, it prevents the Xbox 360 from starting up properly. The error message displayed on the screen reads "System Error. Please contact Xbox Customer Support.

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Status Code: E68." It is often accompanied by a flashing red light on the console. The E68 error suggests that there may be an issue with the Xbox 360's hardware components, which can interfere with its normal functioning.

If you come across the Xbox 360 E68 error and notice a single red light flashing on your console, it indicates a hardware issue. The Xbox is a popular home video game console developed by Microsoft, which competes against other gaming consoles like the PlayStation 4 and Wii U. With an Xbox console, you can enjoy a wide range of video games, including popular titles like Call of Duty Vanguard and Forza Horizon 5.

However, while using your Xbox 360, you may encounter the E68 error code, which prevents your console from starting up. This error is accompanied by a flashing red light, and the error message displayed on the screen says "System Error. Please contact Xbox Customer Support. Status Code: E68". When you encounter this error on your Xbox 360, it indicates a possible hardware problem.

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How to Fix Xbox 360 System Error E68?

Here are the methods to fix Xbox 360 System Error E68. 

1. Remove All USB Devices from Your Console

Sometimes, the E68 error on Xbox 360 can be caused by a connected USB accessory. If you have multiple accessories connected, it's advisable to remove unnecessary devices . such as thumb drives, cooling fans, battery chargers, and controllers.

To troubleshoot USB accessories, disconnect all USB devices from your Xbox and try turning it on without any accessories. If the error reoccurs, it indicates a fault with your console. However, if the error is resolved, it means that one of your accessories or hard drives is not functioning properly. To identify the problematic accessory, you should try connecting them one by one until you find the faulty one.

2. Remove Your Hard Drive

The E68 error on your Xbox 360 can occur due to hardware problems, and it's possible that the issue lies with your hard drive or another faulty component. To resolve this, you should try removing the hard drive from the console and see if that fixes the problem. Follow these steps:

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  1. Turn off your Xbox and disconnect any accessories attached to it.
  2. Place the console horizontally and open the release for the hard drive cover. Then, remove the hard drive.
  3. Reconnect each accessory.
  4. Close the hard drive cover and turn on the console without inserting the hard drive.

If the error persists even after removing the hard drive, it indicates that another component has failed, and you will need to repair or replace your Xbox.

Many users have reported that replacing the hard drive solved the issue for them, so it's recommended to check the hard drive first as it is the most likely cause of the E68 error on Xbox 360.

Alternatively, if you start the console without seeing a red light around the power button, you can turn it off again and reinsert the hard drive. If the error occurs again after reinserting the hard drive, it means that your hard drive is faulty, and you should replace it to resolve the problem.

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3.Format Your Hard Drive

Other users have found that formatting the hard drive can fix the E68 error on Xbox 360. To do this, you can remove the hard drive, connect it to a computer, and perform a format.

Keep in mind that formatting the hard drive will erase all files, so it's recommended to back up your data before proceeding.

You can format the Xbox hard drive using the built-in Windows tool called Disk Management or a professional disk manager tool like MiniTool Partition Wizard. Before formatting, connect the hard drive to your computer using the Xbox 360 data transfer cable.

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Option 1: Use Disk Management

  1. Right-click on the Windows icon on your desktop and select Disk Management.
  2. In the Disk Management window, locate your Xbox hard drive. It may be listed as an Unallocated hard drive. Right-click on it and choose the Format option.
  3. In the Format window, select FAT32 as the File System and enable the Perform a quick format checkbox. Click OK to start the operation.

Note: Formatting the external hard drive as a FAT32 file system is necessary because it is the only format recognized by the Xbox 360 console.

Option 2: Use MiniTool Partition Wizard If the Disk Management tool fails to format the hard drive as FAT32, especially when the hard drive is larger than 32 GB, you can use MiniTool Partition Wizard. This tool allows you to format disks or partitions with ease. It can also convert the file system from NTFS to FAT32 without data loss, eliminating the need for formatting the entire hard drive.

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Here's how to use MiniTool Partition Wizard:

  1. Launch MiniTool Partition Wizard to access its main interface.
  2. Select the hard drive you want to format and click on the Format Partition feature from the left pane. Alternatively, you can right-click on the hard drive and choose Format.
  3. In the Format Partition window, choose FAT32 from the drop-down list of File System. Then click OK to confirm the operation.
  4. Once you're back in the main interface, click on the Apply button to execute the pending operation.

After formatting the hard drive, reconnect it to your Xbox console and check if the E68 error has been resolved.

4. Check Your Video Cable

Some users have reported that they resolved the E68 error on Xbox 360 by adjusting the switch on the video cable. They suggest moving the switch to the HDTV position and then back to the TV position. After performing this adjustment, the Xbox 360 system error E68 should be fixed.

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5. Delete and Redownload Your Profile

Deleting and redownloading your profile is another solution for fixing the Xbox 360 E68 error. Follow these steps:

  1. Press the Guide button on your controller.
  2. Go to Settings > System Settings > Storage > All Devices > Gamer Profiles.
  3. Select the gamertag you want to delete and choose the Delete option.
  4. Select Delete Profile Only.
  5. To redownload your profile on Xbox 360, sign in to your account on the Xbox website.
  6. Select Manage Profile and then choose Download Profile.
  7. Follow the instructions provided to download your profile to your Xbox 360.

After completing these steps, check if the Xbox 360 E68 error has disappeared.

6. Factory Reset Xbox 360

If none of the previous solutions work, performing a factory reset may be necessary. This method will restore your console to its original state, deleting all files including accounts, saved games, settings, and applications.

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If you want to preserve your files, it's strongly recommended to back them up to a USB flash drive before proceeding with the reset.

To reset your Xbox 360 to factory settings, follow these steps:

  1. On the Xbox 360 Home screen, press the Guide button on your controller.
  2. Navigate to Settings > All Settings > System > Console info & updates.
  3. Select Reset console. You will see two options available:

    • Reset and keep my games & apps: This option will only reset your console and delete potentially corrupt data, while preserving games and other large files.
    • Reset and remove everything: This option will delete all downloaded games, saved games, accounts, and applications.

Choose the option that suits your needs and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the factory reset.

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Remember, performing a factory reset will erase all data on your console.

7. Clear the System Cache

Clearing the system cache can often resolve basic problems with your Xbox 360. It involves deleting temporary files and data stored in the system cache during regular usage. Clearing the cache is a quick and simple process, and since corrupt temporary files can cause various issues, it's worth trying before resorting to a full factory reset. Here's how to clear your Xbox 360 system cache:

  1. Press the Guide button on your controller to open the Xbox Guide.
  2. Go to Settings > System Settings > Storage.
  3. Highlight any storage device and press the Y button on the controller to open the Device Options. You can choose any storage device as the system will clear the cache for all devices.
  4. Select Clear System Cache and confirm the operation by selecting Yes. Wait for the process to complete.

Once the cache has been cleared, restart your Xbox 360 console and check if the problem persists.

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Cause Of Xbox 360 System Error E68

The Xbox 360 system error E68 can have several causes, all related to hardware issues. Here are some possible reasons for this error:

  1. Loose Hard Drive Connection: A common cause of the E68 error is a loose connection between the hard drive and the Xbox 360 console. If the hard drive is not properly connected, it can trigger this error.

  2. Faulty Hard Drive: A malfunctioning or damaged hard drive can also lead to an E68 error. If there are issues with the hard drive's functionality, such as bad sectors or corrupted data, it can prevent the console from starting up.

  3. Problematic USB Devices: Having USB devices connected to the console can sometimes interfere with its operation. If any USB devices connected to the Xbox 360 are causing conflicts or compatibility issues, it can result in the E68 error.

  4. Video Cable Issues: Faulty or damaged video cables can disrupt the console's display output. If there are problems with the video cable connection or if the cable itself is damaged, it can trigger the E68 error.

  5. Corrupted Profile or System Cache: In some cases, a corrupted user profile or system cache can lead to an E68 error. If there are issues with the saved data on the console, it can cause the error to occur.

It's worth noting that these are potential causes, and the specific reason for the E68 error may vary depending on the situation. It is recommended to try the suggested solutions or contact Xbox Customer Support for further assistance in diagnosing and resolving the issue.

Xbox 360

The Xbox 360 is a gaming console developed by Microsoft. It was released in 2005 and quickly became one of the most popular gaming platforms of its time. The Xbox 360 features a wide range of games, both physical discs and digital downloads, across various genres such as action, adventure, sports, and more.

The console offers a diverse gaming experience with its powerful hardware capabilities and online multiplayer functionality. Players can connect to the Xbox Live service to compete against friends or other players worldwide, join online communities, and access additional content and features.

The Xbox 360 also supports multimedia capabilities, allowing users to stream movies, TV shows, and music, as well as play DVDs and CDs. It offers a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls, making it accessible to both casual and hardcore gamers.

Over the years, the Xbox 360 has seen several iterations and improvements, including the introduction of the Kinect motion sensor, which enables gesture-based and voice-controlled gaming. The console has a large library of games, including popular franchises like Halo, Gears of War, and Forza Motorsport, providing entertainment options for all types of players.

Overall, the Xbox 360 has made a significant impact in the gaming industry and continues to be cherished by gamers worldwide for its extensive game library, online capabilities, and multimedia features.

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What is Xbox 360 System Error E68 - FAQs

1. What is Xbox 360 System Error E68?

The Xbox 360 system error E68 is an error code that appears on the console, indicating a hardware problem.

2. What is the release date of the Xbox 360?

 The Xbox 360 was released in 2005.

3. What types of games can I play on the Xbox 360?

The Xbox 360 offers a wide range of games across various genres such as action, adventure, sports, and more. You can enjoy both physical discs and digital downloads.

4. Can I play games with my friends on the Xbox 360?

Yes, the Xbox 360 supports online multiplayer functionality. You can connect to Xbox Live and compete against friends or other players worldwide, join online communities, and access additional content and features.

5. What multimedia capabilities does the Xbox 360 have?

The Xbox 360 supports multimedia features, allowing you to stream movies, TV shows, and music. It also functions as a DVD and CD player, providing entertainment beyond gaming.

6. Are there any unique features of the Xbox 360?

Yes, the Xbox 360 introduced the Kinect motion sensor, enabling gesture-based and voice-controlled gaming. It offers an immersive and interactive gaming experience.

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