How to Connect an XBox to a PC Without a Router

Although the instructions that come with the device say that you need to connect your Xbox to a network hub or router to connect to the Internet and Xbox Live, this is not strictly true. With a little work on your PC's settings, you can connect your Xbox to the Internet directly through your PC or laptop with no performance problems. The only extra piece of hardware you will need to purchase is an Ethernet crossover cable.

Things You'll Need

• Ethernet crossover cable
• PC running Windows

Instructions

1. Connect your Xbox 360 to your PC with the Ethernet crossover cable, using the Ethernet ports on each.

2. Go to the Network Setup Wizard in Windows. To do this, click the "Start" button, then "Settings," then "Network Connections." Then click "Create New Connection" in the menu at the left of your screen.

3. Click the "Next" button, then choose "Set up an Advanced Connection." Then choose "Accept Incoming Connections."

4. Choose your Xbox 360 from the list of possible connections that appears.

5. Click the "Properties" button once your Xbox is highlighted. In the options that appear, make sure that the "DCHP" is set to "Auto" and that "Internet Connection Sharing" (ICS) is turned on.

6. Turn off any firewall or virus-protection software that you have running if you have any difficulties getting the Xbox to connect. Certain versions of Windows and third-party protection programs can interfere with the Xbox's Internet connection.

Tips & Warnings

• Although it is possible to connect an Xbox 360 to a computer running an operating system other than Windows, Microsoft has built compatibility with Windows into the Xbox's network software, which means that you won't have to manually configure a number of settings.

• Be sure to turn your firewall and virus-protection software back on once you disconnect your Xbox 360.