How to use the Xbox System Link Cable to play system-linked multiplayer games

Requirements for System Link Play

To play system-linked multiplayer games:

1. Determine if the game you want to play supports system link play. Check the back of the game box to see if it has the "Xbox System Link" icon. Many games support split-screen multiplayer by plugging multiple controllers into one Xbox. System link play is game play with multiple Xbox consoles.
   
   
2. You must have one TV per Xbox console. Xbox has the option to support up to sixteen linked consoles. Check the back of the game box or the game manual to see how many players can play.

Note The Xbox System Link Cable is 20 feet long.

Connect Two Xbox Consoles

To connect two Xbox consoles:

1. Turn off power to both Xbox consoles.
   
   
2. Connect the Xbox System Link Cable connectors to the Ethernet port on the back of each Xbox console.
   Note If you are using a different cable to connect two Xbox consoles, it must be a standard crossover Ethernet cable that is RJ45-compatible.
   
   
3. Connect the consoles to the TVs .
   
   
4. Connect the consoles from the Ethernet port on the back with the System Link Cable.
   
   
5. Follow the game instructions for multiplayer game play to start playing.

Connect More Than Two Xbox Consoles

To connect more than two Xbox consoles:

1. Use Ethernet cables and an Ethernet hub. Contact your local computer retailer or an online computer store for Ethernet cables and hubs.
   
   
2. Connect the consoles to the TVs.
   
   
3. Connect the console to the hub/switch through the Ethernet port using the Ethernet cable. (Make sure the hub is plugged in and that it is on.)
   
   
4. Follow the game instructions for multiplayer game play to start playing.

Note The Xbox System Link Cable is different from the Ethernet connector.