• Guide to Home Networking
  How to set up your own home network quickly and painlessly.
• Routers and Xbox Live
  Everything you need to know about routers on Xbox Live.
• Diagnosing Xbox Live Connections
  Use the Xbox Dashboard to solveICMP, MTU, and NAT issues.
• Lose the Lag
  We've got a few pointers to help you avoid laggy games and host lag-free ones

Choose a Connection

There are three ways to connect to Xbox Live; whichever you choose will be based on your personal preference, your broadband Internet service provider and your set-up at home. You can find more information on connecting with Xbox Compatible and other major ISPs here.

1. Direct Connection

This is the fastest, easiest way to connect to Xbox Live. Choose a direct connection if:

• You want the easiest way to set up and play on Xbox Live
• You don't want to share your connection with your PC (or other device)

2. Router Connection

This is the best way to share your broadband Internet service with your PC. Choose a router connection if:

• You want to share your broadband Internet connection with your PC (or other device)
• Your cable or DSL modem supports an Ethernet connection
• You want to be able to play on Xbox Live whether your PC is on or off

3. Internet Connection Sharing

This shared connection is best only if you have a USB or internal PCI modem. Choose Internet Connection Sharing if:

• You want to share your Broadband Internet connection with your PC (or other device)
• Your cable or DSL modem uses a USB (not Ethernet) connection, or it is an internal PCI modem
• You don't mind turning on your PC before playing games on Xbox Live

Sign Up to Xbox Live