• BroadbandInternet service with cable or DSL modem.
• Xbox video game system and Xbox Live Starter Kit.
• ThreeEthernet cables(RJ-45).
• NAT cable/DSL router. See the list of routers that currently have been tested with Xbox Live.
• To share with a PC, you'll need a PC with a NIC.

• If you need help hooking up to Xbox Live in any of the ways below, take a peek at our simple step-by-step interactive connectivity guide.
• Wireless Connection to Xbox Live
  Throw out the cables! The new Xbox Compatible Wireless Adapter is here.
• Guide to Home Networking
  Follow our simple steps to set up your own home network.
• Xbox Live and Routers
  See the best way for you to get connected to XboxLive.
• Lose the Lag
  Read our tips on smoother broadband game playing and hosting.
• Glossary
  Getting your DNS mixed up with your DMZ? Check out our glossary.

Router Connection

A router connection is usually the best way to share your Internet service with your PC while you play on Xbox Live. See Choose a connection type to determine if a router connection will work with your modem. If you're not sure which router to choose, or you want to check compatibility of your current router with Xbox Live, check our compatibility list.

1. Turn off your devices (Xbox console, cable/DSL router, cable/DSL modem, and PC) before connecting any cables. You should disconnect your modem from its power source to turn it off.
2. Connect the Ethernet out port on the cable/DSL modem to the Ethernet in port on the DSL/cable router using an Ethernet cable.
3. Connect one of the Ethernet out ports on the cable/DSL router to the Ethernet in port on the PC NIC using an Ethernet cable.
4. Connect another Ethernet out port on the cable/DSL router to the Ethernet port on the back of the Xbox console using an Ethernet cable.
5. Turn on your cable/DSL modem, then your cable/DSL router, then your PC.
6. Verify that the PC can access the Internet. If not, the cable/DSL router may require a specific configuration to access the Internet through your PC. See your router documentation for further help configuring the router using your PC.
7. Turn on your Xbox console, with no disk in the disc tray.
8. From the Xbox Dashboard, choose Xbox Live.

If the Xbox Live screen is displayed ("Account Management, New Account, Network Setup") congratulations! You are connected to Xbox Live. Next, sign up for Xbox Live.

If your Xbox console cannot automatically connect to Xbox Live, you will receive the following message: "Could not connect to Xbox Live. Do you want to troubleshoot your network connection?" See Troubleshooting Your Router Connection for more detailed information about the problem and steps you can take to fix it.

Note: With a router connection, you do not need to turn on your PC to access Xbox Live from your Xbox.