# USB Formatting

{% hint style="info" %}
The following steps must be completed by a system administrator.
{% endhint %}

Before using a USB drive, whether it's brand new or has been used in a previous election, it should be formatted.

In VxAdmin, select *`Settings`* from the side menu and select *`Format USB Drive.`*

<figure><img src="/files/3HdTBoOZ4X7yk7s7kgZy" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Confirm you want to format the USB drive by selecting *`Format USB Drive`*. **Formatting the USB drive will delete all files on the USB drive.**

<figure><img src="/files/Aowc4uIhCZ52uaKLOgPg" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

VxAdmin will then confirm your USB drive is ready for use. Repeat this step for all other USB drives.


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