How to Fix Your XBox

Evaluate the problem. If your Xbox will not power on, you should first check the power supply and be sure that everything is plugged in properly. If this checks out, move on to the next step.

Check the light on your power supply. The power supply is in the middle of the power cord's black box located on the back of the unit. If you have three red flashing lights, it means you have a serious problem with the hardware of your Xbox. This is the type of problem that is probably best left to the professionals.

Unplug the console and try plugging it into a different outlet or move to the completely different room of the home if the power supply light is red, is orange when the console is turned on or is not lit at all. If this fixes the problem, it could just be a bad outlet. If the problem is the same, you may need a new power supply.

Reset the hard drive. If you experience the three flashing red lights often referred to as the "red ring of death", then this indicates a hardware failure. However, you can attempt to repair this yourself by completely unplugging the unit, removing the hard drive and then putting everything back in and rebooting again. Often this will reset the hardware issue.

Cool the system by turning it off. If your red lights indicate the problem is in the second quadrant of the unit (all red lights except the first and second are on), then you have a problem with overheating. Sometimes all you need to do is turn off the system and allow it to cool off. When you play once again, be sure it is in a well ventilated area on a hard, flat surface to avoid overheating. Turn the unit off when not in use.

Check for a secure AV connection. If all four lights are flashing on the Xbox, this usually indicates a simple fix. Just remove and then reinsert the AV cable from your console and be sure the cord clicks tightly into place when you reinsert it.