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