Set up a new Xbox Series X or Series S: place it, connect the right cables, then complete setup on the TV or with the Xbox mobile app.

This guide summarises Xbox Support pages checked on 31 October 2026. NextPlayIntel did not test these steps on hardware; follow the linked official page if anything differs.

Quick Answer: Summary of Steps

  1. Place the console horizontally or vertically with 4 to 6 inches of clearance on all sides, not in an enclosed cabinet.

  2. Connect the power cord and the included HDMI cable.

  3. Press the Xbox button on the console or controller.

  4. Set up with the Xbox mobile app, or with your controller on the TV.

  5. Pick language, connect to the internet, pick location, then install the system update and sign in.

Step 1: Placement and cables

  • Put the console on a stable, well-ventilated surface away from heat, with 4 to 6 inches of clearance on all sides.

  • Series X: use the included 2-metre Ultra High Speed HDMI cable. Microsoft says it is required for 4K at 120Hz. If you need a longer one, buy a certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cable.

  • Series S: the included High Speed HDMI cable works. A longer certified Premium High Speed HDMI cable can be used.

  • There is no optical audio out and no HDMI in. Connect cable or satellite boxes to the TV, and soundbars through the TV.

How to find the right port by touch

Port

Tactile marker

Power

One raised dot

Ethernet

Two raised dots

USB (2 on back)

Three raised dots

Storage expansion

Four raised dots

HDMI out

One raised dash

Step 2: Digital setup

  1. Turn on with the Xbox button. If the controller is not paired, press and hold the Pair button on the console and on the controller.

  2. Select your language and language variety.

  3. If asked, choose your display resolution.

  4. Connect to the internet by cable or Wi-Fi.

  5. Select your country. This sets the console and Microsoft Store location.

  6. Select Start update to install the latest system update. The console restarts.

  7. Sign in with your Microsoft account and customise your settings.

Prefer your phone? Microsoft also offers setup through the Xbox mobile app. If the Xbox service is down, you can skip sign-in and use the console offline until it is back.

If something goes wrong

See the Xbox Series X|S troubleshooting guide, the Xbox error-code directory and Xbox home console game sharing.

Frequently asked questions

How much space does an Xbox Series X need around it?

Microsoft says at least 4 to 6 inches of clearance on all sides, and not inside an enclosed cabinet.

Do I need the included HDMI cable for 120Hz?

On Series X, Microsoft says the included Ultra High Speed HDMI cable is required for 4K at 120Hz. Use a certified Ultra High Speed cable if you need a longer one.

Can I set up an Xbox without a phone?

Yes. Microsoft's digital setup uses your controller and on-screen prompts.

Sources & verification

Sources last verified on . This article covers published information, not hands-on testing.

About the Author

Tulasiram Pemmadi · Owner and editor

Tulasiram Pemmadi is the owner and editor of NextPlayIntel, which operates from India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). He sets the site's editorial policy and publishes its gaming news, GTA guides, explainers and hardware reference pages. Articles are researched and written with AI assistance and fact-checked against the linked sources. Unless a page says otherwise, guides summarise published information and are not hands-on tests.

Editorial & update notes

New guide published 31 Oct 2026, based only on official manufacturer support pages. Not tested on hardware.

Our editorial standards and corrections policy