Why wont my Xbox let me install a game?

Some Xbox One users may find that their console won’t install games no matter what they do. Fortunately, this issue can be fixed easily if you know what’s causing it. This article will walk you through the solutions on how to fix this problem.

Causes why your Xbox One may not install games

There are a number of factors that you must check in order to identify the reason for the problem. Let’s check each one below.

Interrupted installation.

Your Xbox One may stop installing a game or app if the system lets a new update to be installed. This can happen from time to time, especially if there’s coincidental updates for games or software at the same time. This can also occur if you haven’t connected the console to the internet for some time and updates are getting pushed to it at the same time during installation. 

Corrupted local saved game.

Another reason why your Xbox One may stop game installation is when it detects a corrupted saved game. Outdated saved versions of games may also prevent installation from time to time.

Random console bug.

Installations may be stopped due to unexplained console bugs. This can happen randomly depending on the condition of the software. In most cases, a random bug goes away by rebooting the system.

Game disc problem.

Your Xbox One may sometimes initially start a game installation but would eventually stop if it can’t take the needed data because it can’t fully read the disc. Be sure to check the game disc for any scratches or crack. Only use a game disc that’s cleaned properly and has no obvious sign of damage. Keep in mind that your console may continue to read your game disc even if there’s scratches on it. However, if it reads or installs other game discs just fine except the one you’re having an issue with, you may have game disc issue. Try replacing the disc with a new one.

If your Xbox One can’t read any game disc, you’ll need to follow a different set of troubleshooting steps.

Troubleshooting an Xbox One that won’t install games

Below are the possible solutions that you can do to fix an Xbox One that won’t install games.

1. Clean the game disc.

   If you’re trying to install a game from a disc, make sure that you clean the disc with a clean, microfiber cloth before inserting it to the console. Hold the disc from the edges in order to avoid getting dust on the surface from your fingers. 
   If the disc has a visible crack or scratch on it, try replacing the game disc. You must do this, especially if your Xbox One reads other game discs without any problems.

   
   

2. Clear local saved games.

   If you have a good working disc but your Xbox One still won’t install games, your next move is to delete local saved games. These are game data that are kept in your console only and won’t affect games or game progress that are saved in the Xbox Live cloud. 
   To delete a local saved game:
   -Remove the disc from your console.
   -Press the Xbox button  to open the guide.
   -Go to System
   -Select Settings
   -Go to System
   -Select Storage.
   -Select Clear local saved games.
   -Select Yes to confirm
   -Once your console restarts, try installing the game again.

   
   

3. Power cycle the Xbox One.

   Some installation issues can be fixed by resetting your Xbox One. This can work if the problem is caused by a random bug after the console has been left running for an extended period.

   
   

4. Check Xbox Live Status.

   If you’re trying to install a digital version of a game (not using a disc), make sure that you check Xbox Live server status. It’s possible that there may be an on-going outage.

   
   

5. Verify if you’re using the correct Xbox profile.

   If there are multiple Xbox Live profiles saved in your console, be sure to double check that you’re signed in to the one that purchased the digital content. You can sign the current profile out and then log back in to check.
   Ignore this troubleshooting step if you’re trying to install a game from a disc.

   
   

6. Check Storage space.

   If you add a lot of games, your console’s storage space may not be enough to allow a new game to be installed. Check the Xbox One notifications to know if there’s any storage-related issue. Follow the steps below:
   -Press the Xbox button  to open the guide.
   -Select System
   -Go to App & system notifications.
   -Check if there are any notifications about low or unavailable hard drive space. Xbox One will alert you when you’re running low.
   If there’s a notification about low hard drive space, you’ll have to either delete content to free up space or add an external drive.

   
   

Suggested readings:

• How To Fix Xbox One Random Restart Issue | Turns Off Randomly
• How To Fix An Xbox One Power Supply That Is Not Working
• How To Fix Xbox One Controller Won’t Sync | Won’t Connect
• How To Fix Xbox One Slow Game Or App Downloads

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Harvey

Harvey is keen with mobile technology and loves writing about all things mobile. He is passionate in helping technology-challenged people by finding resolution to their issues.

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