Introduction to Home Networking

A home network connects your Xbox 360™ console and all the computers and devices (printers/copiers/scanners/faxes, even TVs and audio systems) in your house so that you can share those devices, share your files—including music, pictures, and movies—and so that multiple people can surf the Internet and access Xbox Live® at the same time.

A home network eliminates all kinds of inconvenient and annoying situations. With a home network:

• You won't have to save your files to a CD or flash-memory device and take it to the computer that's connected to the printer.
• You won't have to wait until someone is done e-mailing grandma so you can surf the 'Net.
• You won't have to let your roommate finish researching a thesis while you wait to jump on Xbox Live.
• You can stream music and digital photos from a Microsoft® Windows® XP–equipped PC to an Xbox 360™ console.

Set Up Your Home Network

Setting up a home network doesn't have to be scary. We'll show you the additional benefits of a home network and walk you through creating one that suits your needs.

1. For an overview of terminology and equipment, see Home Networking Basics .
2. To plan your home network, see Preparing a Home Network .
3. To connect your system, use our handy Connectivity Wizard .