Join Xbox Live

Xbox Live® is a realm where gaming is king. Something is always going on: you can find people to play with and talk to 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. You use a single, persistent identity—your gamertag—across all games, and you can download new stuff for your games any time you feel like it.

Tip

You may find it easier to create your account online at xbox Live, since it's generally faster to enter information using your computer keyboard than it is using the Xbox 360 controller and the virtual keyboard in the Xbox 360 Dashboard. Both methods require the same information.

To join Xbox Live from the Xbox 360 Dashboard:

1. Make sure your Xbox 360 console is connected to Xbox Live.

For information about connecting to Xbox Live, see Connect to Xbox Live.

2. To simplify the process, collect the details of your Microsoft Passport account before you create your Xbox Live membership. You already have a Passport if you have any of the following:

• A Hotmail account.
• An MSN account.
• An Xbox.com account.

If you don't have a Passport, visit www.passport.net to set one up.

3. From the Xbox Live area of the Xbox Dashboard, select the Xbox Live banner. This will open the Xbox Live area of the Xbox Guide.

4. Select Join Xbox Live and follow the on-screen instructions.

If your profile name has already been taken on Xbox Live you will be given the option to choose a new gamertag. Here you will have the option to change your gamertag. You'll also supply information like your Passport e-mail address and password, your country/region, your language, your name, and your phone number.

Tip

You can enter information using either a USB PC keyboard plugged into a controller port or your Xbox 360 controller and the on-screen virtual keyboard.

5. When prompted, select your desired membership type from the list of options.

Xbox Live Gold memberships are paid memberships that require you to supply valid credit-card information or redeem a pre-paid card. For more information about Xbox Live memberships, see Xbox Live.

6. Follow the remaining steps: enter a contact address, choose an Xbox Live Gamer Zone, set your communication preferences for Xbox 360 promotions, and select a time zone and daylight-saving option.

Then you'll be all set to dive headlong into exciting multiplayer Xbox Live play, multiplayer chat, Xbox Live Marketplace downloads, and other cool activities.