Things You'll Need:
- Xbox 360 console
- Cable modem
- Router (optional)
- Ethernet cable
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Step 1
Connect your ethernet cable to the Xbox 360 on one end, and to either your cable modem or an open spot on your router on the other end.
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Step 2
Turn on your Xbox 360. If you have a disc in the tray, press the center button on your controller and select the option to return to the console dashboard.
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Step 3
Use the left thumb stick to navigate to the "Xbox Live" section of the dashboard, then choose the option that says "Join Xbox Live."
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Step 1
Enter a "Gamertag" when prompted. This is how you will be identified by others online, so choose a name wisely. It costs money to change your name once you are fully signed up.
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Step 2
Create a Windows Live ID by following the onscreen prompt. You already have an ID if you have a Hotmail, MSN, Xbox.com, Zune or Passport Network account. Enter your location, language and date of birth, then select the button at the bottom of the screen that says "Next."
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Step 3
Enter an existing email address to be associated with your Windows Live ID. Enter your password (twice for verification) and a secret question and answer in case you forget that password. Then select the "Next" button.
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Step 4
Fill in your first name, last name, phone number and contact email. Microsoft will send notifications to this email address regarding your Live subscription and purchases. Select "Next" when you are finished.
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Step 5
Read over the Terms and Conditions and choose "Accept" if you are satisfied. Choose whether to save your password for logging on in the future.
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Step 1
If you have an Xbox Live subscription card, use it now. Otherwise, choose the length and type of membership that's right for you. A Silver membership allows you to purchase new games or download upgrades and add-ons for existing games. Only the Gold membership lets you play online with other gamers.
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Step 2
Enter your subscription code or credit-card information, plus your billing or contact address.
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Step 3
Select a gamer picture, which will appear next to your name when you are communicating with other Xbox Live members. Also choose "Gamer Zone," which will pair you with like-minded players. Decide whether you want to receive marketing information.
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Step 4
Online multiplayer is accessed through each individual game. Just fire up the game and start playing with people around the world.
