Quick Summary
Error code E106 on Xbox typically indicates a problem during a system update process. This usually means the update failed to install correctly, potentially due to corrupted update files or interruptions during the installation.
Common Causes
- Corrupted Update Files: The update files downloaded by the Xbox may have become corrupted during the download process, leading to installation failures.
- Network Connectivity Issues: Interruptions or instability in your internet connection while downloading or installing the update can cause errors.
- Storage Issues: Insufficient storage space on the Xbox console can prevent the update from installing successfully.
- System Errors: Underlying system errors or glitches within the Xbox operating system itself may interfere with the update process.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Restart Your Xbox Console
Step 1: Press and hold the Xbox button on the front of the console for about 10 seconds until it completely shuts down.
Step 2: Wait for at least 30 seconds.
Step 3: Press the Xbox button again to turn the console back on. This will perform a 'hard reset' which can often resolve temporary glitches.
Method 2: Perform an Offline System Update
Step 1: On a working computer, visit the official Xbox website and download the Offline System Update (OSU) file specific to your console model.
Step 2: Format a USB flash drive with a minimum of 6GB of space to NTFS format.
Step 3: Extract the contents of the downloaded OSU file to the root of the USB flash drive. It should contain a folder named '$SystemUpdate'.
Step 4: With the Xbox powered off, insert the USB drive into a USB port on the console.
Step 5: Press and hold the Bind (pairing) button and the Eject button, then press the Xbox button. Continue holding the Bind and Eject buttons for about 10-15 seconds, until you hear two 'power-up' tones. The console should then boot from the USB drive and begin the update process.
Step 6: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the offline system update.
Method 3: Factory Reset (Keep Games & Apps)
Step 1: If the offline update fails, you may need to perform a factory reset. Be aware this is a last resort to save your console; attempt the previously mentioned fixes first.
Step 2: Power off your Xbox console.
Step 3: Press and hold the Bind (pairing) button and the Eject button, then press the Xbox button on the console. Continue holding the Bind and Eject buttons for about 10-15 seconds, until you hear the power-up tone. Then, you'll hear a second tone a few seconds later. The Xbox should power up and take you to the Xbox Startup Troubleshooter.
Step 4: Use the D-pad and the A button to select 'Troubleshoot'. Choose 'Reset this Xbox'.
Step 5: Select 'Keep games & apps'. This option attempts to reset the console without deleting your installed games and apps, but it will remove your profiles. You will need to sign back in to Xbox Live after the reset.
Step 6: Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the reset process.