How to Hook Up an Xbox 360 to a Wireless Network

One of the hallmarks of the Xbox 360 console is the ability to connect to the Internet to allow online play and provide downloadable content. You can connect the Xbox 360 to a LAN via an Ethernet cable straight out of the box, but if you want to connect your console to a wireless network, you will need to buy a wireless adapter. The wireless adapter allows you to connect to the Internet from any room of the house without the need for network cables.

Things You'll Need

• Xbox wireless network adapter
• Wireless router

Instructions

1. Connect the Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter to your Xbox 360. Locate the two slots on the back of the console and insert the two wireless adapter tabs. Verify that the antenna is oriented upward.

2. Plug the network adapter's USB cable into the USB port. Remove any LAN network cables that you may have used previously.

3. Check the LED on the wireless network adapter. A solid green LED indicates that the adapter is connected to the network. A flashing green LED means that the adapter is attempting to connect to the network. Red indicates that the adapter needs to be configured, and no light means that the adapter is not getting any power; reconnect the USB cable or connect it to a different USB port.

4. Configure the network settings in the Xbox 360 menu. Power-on the console and navigate to the "My Xbox" menu. Enter the "System Settings" menu and then the "Network Settings" menu. Select the option to "Configure Network."

5. Select "Wireless Mode" from the "Basic Settings" tab. Choose the option to "Scan for Networks," and the Xbox 360 will attempt to locate the network signal from your wireless router.

6. Select the wireless network name that you wish to join, and enter your network password. Select "Done" when complete. If your network is not listed, select the option to "Specify Unlisted Network" and enter your network's SSID and security level. Enter your network's security password and select "Done" to finish.

7. Push the "B" button on your Xbox controller. Select the option to "Test Xbox LIVE Connection" to verify that the wireless network settings are configured correctly. The screen will display that the "Xbox Live is up and running" if all of the steps are performed properly.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your user manual if you have difficulty configuring the network adapter.

References

• Xbox.com: Wireless connection guide
• Xbox.com: Configure wireless settings