• BroadbandInternet service with cable or DSL modem (provided by your ISP).
• Ethernet cable with RJ-45 connectors.
• Xbox video game system with an Xbox Live–enabled game.
• Xbox Live Starter Kit.
  
  

• 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.

Direct Connection  

A direct connection is the easiest Xbox Live connection type to set up. But if you want to share your Internet connection with your PC while using Xbox Live (for example, if someone was using your PC whilst you want to play Live), choose a different connection type.

1. Turn off your Xbox console and your cable/DSL modem 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 port on the back of the Xbox console using the Ethernet cable. Most modems use a standard (straight-through) Ethernet cable. However, some modems require a crossover Ethernet cable. See your modem documentation for more information.
3. Turn on your cable/DSL modem, then your Xbox console, with no disk in the disk tray.
4. 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 XboxLive, you will receive the following message: 'Could not connect to Xbox Live. Do you want to troubleshoot your network connection?' See Troubleshooting your direct connection for more detailed information about the problem and the steps you can take to fix it.