Original Xbox

Installing the softmod

Once the installer begins writing, let it finish without interruption. Do not power off or unplug the console mid-install. Confirm your EEPROM backup exists before starting, since this stage modifies the hard drive's boot configuration.

With the ENDGAME installer on screen, you now write the actual softmod. The installer creates a dual-boot setup and lays down a custom dashboard, all on the hard drive and all reversible.

Back up on-device

The installer typically offers to save a fresh copy of your EEPROM and key files. Accept this so recovery data lives on the console too.
Write the softmod

Confirm the install. The tool writes the dual-boot softmod, preserving the original dashboard so both can be reached.
Install the custom dashboard

The installer places a custom dashboard that becomes your new default boot target, giving you file management and recovery tools.
Finish and reboot

Let the installer complete, then restart when prompted to load into the freshly installed environment.

After installation

On reboot the console should start into the custom dashboard rather than the stock one. The original Microsoft dashboard remains intact in the background, which is what keeps the softmod safe and reversible.

Keep your backups

Save the on-device EEPROM and any recovery files to your PC as well. If the dashboard ever becomes corrupted, those files make restoration straightforward.