** Xbox Live FAQ including Connections/Setup**

[LynxFX]

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This is courtesy of XBA member carlbme.
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Ok, so there have been tons of questions about how to get setup with Live. After answering multitudes of them I’ve decided to create a FAQ. And obviously this is it. So read up and your questions shall be answered.


Q: Do I need a router to connect to Live?

A: No, however without a router you cannot have multiple PC’s or your PC and Xbox online at the same time (with the exception of ICS). For more information on how to connect to Live and the different options you have (ICS, Router, Direct Connect) visit http://www.xbox.com/LIVE/connect/choose.htm
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Q: What sort of router should I buy and where?

A: There are several different routers that will work on Live. There are a few however that do not work.
The best thing to do is to check out this website (http://www.xbox.com/LIVE/connect/routers.htm) at xbox.com, which shows those that work and those that do not. You can purchase routers and cabling at any computer electronics store like Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, Microcenter, Walmart, Fry's, etc.

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Q: Should I get a hub or a router and what is the difference?

A: It depends actually, although a router is generally preferred. With a hub you can connect to Live, however you cannot have your computer(s) on at the same time unless your ISP (Internet Service Provider) provides you with 2 IP addresses (most only offer 1). With a router it takes the 1 IP address that your ISP gives you and then creates it’s own IP addresses and gives them to as all the components that are plugged into the router.
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Q: Will a wireless router work for XBL?

A: Yes, there are two different ways to do this.

1. You will need a wireless router, wireless PCI card and a wireless bridge. The wireless bridge allows you to plug in a wired device into it, which then connects it to your wireless network.

Here is a good example of how it connects: Cable Modem-> Wireless Router-> Wireless Signal-> Bridge-> Cat5 Cable-> Xbox

2. Second way requires a wireless router and a wireless PCI card. The wireless router sits next to your cable modem and Xbox. Plug the cable from the cable box into the router, then run a wire from a port in the back of the router into the Xbox.
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Q: Do I have to buy a cable/DSL modem? If so what is a good sort to get?

A: Whenever you get either your cable or DSL installed they will provide you with this generally, so no purchase should be needed. You might wish to ask about this whenever you speak with a representative about installing the service.

Typical ways of connecting your DSL or Cable connection to your Xbox.

http://www.notsofinest.com/images/carlbme/liverouter.jpg
Connection using a router.

http://www.notsofinest.com/images/carlbme/livedirectconnect.jpg
Connection using a direct connect to your DSL or Cable modem.

http://www.notsofinest.com/images/carlbme/liveics.jpg
Connection using a second NIC in your PC.
All images copyright of Microsoft and Xbox.com (http://www.xbox.com).
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Q: Can I sign up for live and use my ISDN connection.

A: Yes and No, according to Microsoft only cable or DSL connections offer the significant amount of bandwidth needed but technically you can get the connection but expect there to be a significant amount of lag.
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Q: How much does Live cost?

A: Live cost $50 USD for the communicator, demo disk (contains demo of MotoGP, and Whacked!), and a years worth of service
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Q: After the first year how much will it cost?

A: That is still to be determined by Microsoft. Most guesses so far place it at $10 or less per month with a possible slightly lower rate for signing up a year.
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Q: Why does it prompt me for a credit card when I sign up.

A: This is done for two reasons.

1. If you read the contract it states that you should be either 18 years old or 13 with parents permission.
The credit card thus is a means of verifing age.

2. Some downloads will require a small fee. By having your card information already inputed you do not have to continuously input it everytime you wish to download a new map, character, etc.
-----

Q: Can I buy a new headset? Or do I have to buy another starter kit?

A: You cannot buy a Microsoft Xbox headset seperatly. However, they were good enough to use a univeral size (2.5mm), so all you have to do is go to Radio Shack, CompUSA, Best Buy, Curcit City, etc.. and pick you up a hands free kit for a cellular phone. Just make sure it says either Univeral or 2.5mm on it. A last resort could be to call 1-800-4MY-XBOX to order a replacement.
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Q: How much does a new headset cost?

A: You can find them for as low as $10 and as high as $50, depending on the quality and manufacturer. Average tends to be around $20. If your original headset is still under warranty then by calling 1-800-4MY-XBOX you can receive a new one at no charge. Just ship the broken one back and a replacement will be shipped back to you.
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Q: How many characters are allowed in your gamertag?

A: You can have a total of 15 characters including spaces in your gamertag.
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This thread will be cleaned up from time to time.

[Chaotic]

Nice thread lynxFx :)

[LynxFX]

Don't thank me, thank carlbme. :)

Also if anyone thinks of more stuff that could be included in this faq let me know and I'll add it to the first post. Thanks. :D

[carlbme]

Hey Lynx, I was going to add some diagrams but couldn't. It seems that the IMG is turned off for this forum. :(

[LynxFX]

Yup they are turned off. I'll go see what I can do.

[SPARTAN VI]

Cool, my headset just snapped a few minutes ago. I glued it together, but doesn't feel right. Here are some good questions :

Can I buy a new headset? Or do I have to buy another starter kit?

If I don't have to buy another kit, then how much does a new headset cost?

Not urgent, my patched up one still works fine, but the hot glue and a thick colored rubberband don't go with the cool black of the XBOX headset.:cool:

[carlbme]

Originally posted by SPARTAN VI
Cool, my headset just snapped a few minutes ago. I glued it together, but doesn't feel right. Here are some good questions :

Can I buy a new headset? Or do I have to buy another starter kit?

If I don't have to buy another kit, then how much does a new headset cost?

Not urgent, my patched up one still works fine, but the hot glue and a thick colored rubberband don't go with the cool black of the XBOX headset.:cool:

Good question, I had the same problem. Didn't think about putting it in the FAQ.

Answer: You cannot buy a Microsoft Xbox headset seperatly.

However, they were good enough to use a univeral size (2.5mm), so all you have to do is go to Radio Shack, CompUSA, Best Buy, Curcit City, etc.. and pick you up a hands free kit for a cellular phone. Just make sure it says either Univeral or 2.5mm on it.

You can get them for as little as 10-15 USD. I got mine for about 15 and I like it so much more than the Xbox headset. :)

[SPARTAN VI]

Originally posted by carlbme


Good question, I had the same problem. Didn't think about putting it in the FAQ.

Answer: You cannot buy a Microsoft Xbox headset seperatly.

However, they were good enough to use a univeral size (2.5mm), so all you have to do is go to Radio Shack, CompUSA, Best Buy, Curcit City, etc.. and pick you up a hands free kit for a cellular phone. Just make sure it says either Univeral or 2.5mm on it.

You can get them for as little as 10-15 USD. I got mine for about 15 and I like it so much more than the Xbox headset. :)

Cool, I'll look into it, the XBOX headset does hurt my ear after about an hour or so, but that's no problem when I switch ears, but now that the clip is broken, switching isn't very easy. Thanks for your help!:)

[Casper]

Originally posted by SPARTAN VI


Cool, I'll look into it, the XBOX headset does hurt my ear after about an hour or so, but that's no problem when I switch ears, but now that the clip is broken, switching isn't very easy. Thanks for your help!:)

I just did that last night, and Super Glue is man's best friend :D

If not, you can also try and contact 800-4MY-XBOX and I think that they will replace it for you, try that out.

[SPARTAN VI]

)Originally posted by casper


I just did that last night, and Super Glue is man's best friend :D

If not, you can also try and contact 800-4MY-XBOX and I think that they will replace it for you, try that out.

Great! That's even better! MY sister bought this crappy headset thing for the phone, it's so weak, no volume control, or mute button, so I kept with my XBOX headset (Glue and rubberbands:cool: ) But if I can get a replacement that's even better! Thanks Casper.

[EHWfedPres]

I have a Q...

how many characters are allowed in your gamertag?

[LynxFX]

Originally posted by EHWfedPres
I have a Q...
how many characters are allowed in your gamertag?
I'm not too sure and I couldn't find anything on xbox.com.

[Kraft]

Originally posted by Lynxfx-XBA

I'm not too sure and I couldn't find anything on xbox.com.

I can confirm 5 :)

[SkoalMint]

Originally posted by EHWfedPres
I have a Q...

how many characters are allowed in your gamertag?

15

[LynxFX]

After going through the gamertag database 15 is the longest I could find so I'll take it as fact unless someone knows different.

Thanks skoalmint.

[SkoalMint]

Originally posted by Lynxfx-XBA
After going through the gamertag database 15 is the longest I could find so I'll take it as fact unless someone knows different.

Thanks skoalmint.

Anytime. :) It is definitely 15, because I was going to put a couple of spaces in mine and it wouldn't even let me put one.

[TEA]

So I'll need 3 Ethernet cables right for a connection w/ a router?

Where can I buy a router and the ethernet cables?

Is the Ethernet cable,router,Cable/DSL(I'm gettin cable) is that all I need to connect Xbox live?

Thanx for the feedback and answers.

[LynxFX]

So I'll need 3 Ethernet cables right for a connection w/ a router?

Yes if you are connecting it to just one computer and one xbox.

Where can I buy a router and the ethernet cables?
Any computer store. Best Buy, Circuit City, CompUSA, Fry's etc. When you order DSL or cable you will most likely receive a few cables during the installatoin.

Is the Ethernet cable,router,Cable/DSL(I'm gettin cable) is that all I need to connect Xbox live?
Yes...plus Live starter kit of course. :)

[TEA]

Thanx Lynxfx,
One more question

How much do the ethernet cables cost if i need some and what's the cheapest router?

[LynxFX]

Cables can cost as little as $5 for 6 feet but you will have to shop around.

Routers can be found for as little as $20 if you really know where to look but on average are $50-$100.

If you don't have a store near you, go to www.pricewatch.com and check out some. Be sure to check out the retailers feedback at places like www.resellerratings.com before you buy from the cheapest vender.

[carlbme]

One other thing. Most routers come with an Ethernet cable already inside. Some might be kind of short (only about 6") but it's still usable no matter what.

[siayajin]

Is it possible at all to use an AOL broadband?

Microsoft and AOL say not yet, but I have some friends who say it is possible with a few mods(not to the XBOX).

Has anyone tried it?

[carlbme]

Originally posted by siayajin
Is it possible at all to use an AOL broadband?

Microsoft and AOL say not yet, but I have some friends who say it is possible with a few mods(not to the XBOX).

Has anyone tried it?

I have not heard of it working. The reason why is it seems that AOL has blocked the ports needed on their system. If this is the case I do not see getting on at all unless you wait and then pay the extra for them to open up the ports.

My best advise....ditch AOL.

[Gaws]

Question: How much will XBL cost after the first year? e-mail me at y.dt@verizon.net

[carlbme]

Originally posted by Gaws
Question: How much will XBL cost after the first year? e-mail me at y.dt@verizon.net

Check the FAQ.

Q: After the first year how much will it cost?

A: That is still to be determined by Microsoft. Most guesses so far place it at $10 or less per month with a possible slightly lower rate for signing up a year.

[SPARTAN VI]

HERE'S A QUESTION THAT JUST POPPED UP!:eek: :

1) Do I have to buy another XBOX LIVE starter kit if I want another Gamertag?

2) If so, does it charge me for antoher subsription on top of the original account? (meaning after the 1st year, do I have to pay $10 for both accounts?)

My sister just got her own Gamertag, so if any of you want to play my sister her Gamertag is Arashi . (She said it means STORM in Japanese...:confused: )

So I just wanted to know...

[carlbme]

Originally posted by SPARTAN VI
1) Do I have to buy another XBOX LIVE starter kit if I want another Gamertag?

From what I understand that is correct.

2) If so, does it charge me for antoher subsription on top of the original account? (meaning after the 1st year, do I have to pay $10 for both accounts?)

If you wish to keep both accounts that is also correct.

[SPARTAN VI]

Originally posted by carlbme


From what I understand that is correct.

[B]

If you wish to keep both accounts that is also correct.

Are you sure?:) Don;t know if my parents will wanna keep both accounts if they'll charge us for both.

[LynxFX]

Yup, every IDtag is considered its own entity. Microsoft doesn't care if there are fifty of you in your house using it, but you only get one unique tag per $50 this year. Each one has its own license. Each one will need to be renewed.

This system has its pros and cons. I do wish you could have up to four per Xbox, per subscription. That would make more sense. 4 controllers, 4 accounts, 1 xbox.

[SPARTAN VI]

Originally posted by Lynxfx-XBA
Yup, every IDtag is considered its own entity. Microsoft doesn't care if there are fifty of you in your house using it, but you only get one unique tag per $50 this year. Each one has its own license. Each one will need to be renewed.

This system has its pros and cons. I do wish you could have up to four per Xbox, per subscription. That would make more sense. 4 controllers, 4 accounts, 1 xbox.

BAH!! Dumb, is what that is...

Oh well, my sister gets to pay for her own account.:rolleyes:

You guys might catch her one one day, make sure you say,

" Hey is that a mirror in your pocket? Cuz I can see MYSELF in you PANTS.":)

It always works...:rolleyes: :) ;)

[Ryan Sanders]

What if you don't have a credit card? What do you do then?

[LynxFX]

Originally posted by Ryan Sanders
What if you don't have a credit card? What do you do then?
You can't get on Live. Just one of those things. You can try a check card but they aren't guaranteed to work.

[Xbox Owner]

Thank you!!! OMG, I was just going to post a thread about this..

BUT..what's the cheapest router that works with XBL? Thanks

[LynxFX]

Originally posted by Xbox Owner
BUT..what's the cheapest router that works with XBL? Thanks
The cheapest one you can find. I personally got mine for $20. It is an SMC with a built in 4 port switch. Worked without a single problem. Just don't get one on Microsoft's do not buy (http://www.xbox.com/LIVE/connect/routers.htm) list.

[Keltiks]

Lynx, if you get a chance could you look at a thread I started before I realized this one was up. Its callled "Connection Question".
I'd give you the URL but I am not entirely sure how to get it.

[carlbme]

Originally posted by Lynxfx-XBA

You can't get on Live. Just one of those things. You can try a check card but they aren't guaranteed to work.

As long as it has a Visa or MasterCard logo on it then it will work.

[LynxFX]

Originally posted by carlbme
As long as it has a Visa or MasterCard logo on it then it will work.
That is true and what usually seperates a debit from a check card, but there have actually been a few people that couldn't even get that to work. It wasn't MS's fault but rather the bank that the cards were issued. They didn't allow online purchases. :eek: My guess is that it was issued from some bank in Stanford, Montana. (I lived there for 3 years and I know that if there was a bank that didn't allow it, it would be in that town.) That is why they still say that it isn't guaranteed to work.

[carlbme]

Originally posted by Lynxfx-XBA

That is true and what usually seperates a debit from a check card, but there have actually been a few people that couldn't even get that to work. It wasn't MS's fault but rather the bank that the cards were issued. They didn't allow online purchases. :eek: My guess is that it was issued from some bank in Stanford, Montana. (I lived there for 3 years and I know that if there was a bank that didn't allow it, it would be in that town.) That is why they still say that it isn't guaranteed to work.

Oh. Well thank's for that info. I thought that all of them with the logo's on it were good to go. I'll make sure to doublecheck next time I get a new one (switching banks soon) that i'll be able to use it online.

[SPARTAN VI]

*Clears throat* I have returned with another great question. :D

Besides MechAssault, what games allow you to use two accounts simultaneously?

My sister and I haven't had any luck with playing UC with both of our accounts at the same time. Might not be as great as my other two questions, but a question of greatness non-the-less!:D

[No Fear 23]

Originally posted by SPARTAN VI
*Clears throat* I have returned with another great question. :D

Besides MechAssault, what games allow you to use two accounts simultaneously?

My sister and I haven't had any luck with playing UC with both of our accounts at the same time. Might not be as great as my other two questions, but a question of greatness non-the-less!:D

spartan, ur lucky to have a sister to play with u, i try to get my sister to play all the time, but she cant play it right :( o well in halo, she runs in circles and shooting in cricles, i keep telling her to use the danm left thumbstick to move and right thumbstick to look. stupid sis. :(

o well

[No Fear 23]

aight i have a question

where can i find a list of gamertags that are taken?

i have a name that i would like to use once broadband comes soon. i would like to see if neone has the same name i want. if they do, i will have some time to think up another name. it took me a week to think of the name i want:eek:

[Majin Drak]

ok i have an dual channel 128 kbs isdn connection and was wondering if i could use xbox live with this connection and if so how would i go about doing it?

Thanx for the answers...;)

[SPARTAN VI]

*Clears throat* I have returned with another great question. :D

What happens to all the "feedback" that is given?

Yet another question of greatness that was asked by yours truely... SPARTAN VI.... (sorry, its late....)

Ran into over 5 morons on LIVE that cheat, are rude, or just acting like a moron would. Just wondering where the feeback goes.:)

[No Fear 23]

Originally posted by SPARTAN VI
*Clears throat* I have returned with another great question. :D

What happens to all the "feedback" that is given?

Yet another question of greatness that was asked by yours truely... SPARTAN VI.... (sorry, its late....)

Ran into over 5 morons on LIVE that cheat, are rude, or just acting like a moron would. Just wondering where the feeback goes.:)

well, from what i've heard, bad feedbacks can cause microsoft to ban u or get u kicked out of live. or possibly warning other live players the bad person

[Cloud Strife]

Sorry that I seem to ask a lot of questions about Xbox Live. I really don't know much about Live and I'm trying to learn more about for I can get it.

Anyway, I have a question about hosting. I know it's when someone ask another person to join them, does the person who was asked to join have to own a copy of the game themself to get it too work? I've been confused about that.:confused: I want to buy an Xbox Live starter kit but I'm not sure if I'll be able to buy more than two games.

[siayajin]

Originally posted by Burning Ranger
Anyway, I have a question about hosting. I know it's when someone ask another person to join them, does the person who was asked to join have to own a copy of the game themself to get it too work? I've been confused about that.:confused: I want to buy an Xbox Live starter kit but I'm not sure if I'll be able to buy more than two games.


Yes, the other person would have to have a copy of the same game in order to play.

[Cloud Strife]

Originally posted by siayajin
Yes, the other person would have to have a copy of the same game in order to play. Thanks a lot. I think I'm starting to understand Live a bit more now. I just need to watch someone play Live. That would probably get my excitement level up.:)

[No Fear 23]

Originally posted by Burning Ranger
Thanks a lot. I think I'm starting to understand Live a bit more now. I just need to watch someone play Live. That would probably get my excitement level up.:)

waaaaaay way up in the sky :)

its awesome

[c--b]

I havent gotten X-box live yet, but I have two pc's and two Ip adresses registered with my Isp (Shaw Cable), I should be able to use one for X-box live, correct?(Yes I read the first post, just being sure, dont want to shell out $73 canadian only to have it not work and be told I cant return it)

Anyway, on to the real question.

Can I be sure that nothing will be charged to the registered Credit card? (I'm talking about during the customary free year) Seeing as how its not exactly mine, its my sisters.

Anyhow, Question number two. With the voice chat, does everyone in the game (Ghost Recon) hear the person talking? Or is it team specific?

Another question (They just keep coming dont they), My sister sleeps near the room I play X-box in, will I be able to jack up the volume on the Mic so others can hear me without my sister hearing me? If not, I may have to move the TV upstairs (Or buy my own) and get an extra-long network cable (Which is pretty expensive for what it is), I also hear the longer it gets the lower the ping I get.

Im quite surprised I've got everything I need for X-box live. And assuming that nothing is charged to the card unexpectedly you should see me playing Ghost Recon when my b-day rolls around (I read up on the X-box live games, it seems thats the game to get. I also enjoy realism games).


**Sigh** Problems, problems, problems.

Thanks guys.

[LynxFX]

Originally posted by c--b
I havent gotten X-box live yet, but I have two pc's and two Ip adresses registered with my Isp (Shaw Cable), I should be able to use one for X-box live, correct?(Yes I read the first post, just being sure, dont want to shell out $73 canadian only to have it not work and be told I cant return it)

Yes that will work. You will either need to share one IP with the xbox and not use that computer while you play on Live, or purchase a router that will supply IP's to all your computers via DHCP. (then you will only need to pay for 1 IP)

Can I be sure that nothing will be charged to the registered Credit card? (I'm talking about during the customary free year) Seeing as how its not exactly mine, its my sisters.

Yes, there is an option to disable all content that may be charged. You will always be asked if you are sure you want to change this item to your card as well. So far everything has been free.


Anyhow, Question number two. With the voice chat, does everyone in the game (Ghost Recon) hear the person talking? Or is it team specific?

It is team specific, until you out and then you can hear the rest of the players that are also out.

Another question (They just keep coming dont they), My sister sleeps near the room I play X-box in, will I be able to jack up the volume on the Mic so others can hear me without my sister hearing me?

The volume on the mic is seperate from the game volume so yes you will be able to control it.

That should get you going. :)

[SPARTAN VI]

Originally posted by irule23
well, from what i've heard, bad feedbacks can cause microsoft to ban u or get u kicked out of live. or possibly warning other live players the bad person

I've heard they haven't taken feedback into account yet and since then, the amount of morons Im running into has doubled. Don't ever go intoa UC game without a buddy, you'll run into wierd people and its always nice to have a friends back you up. ;)

[c--b]

Too true, one UC game I went into involved one person telling the other persons girlfriend to... well I'll leave that story for another day. But the general idea is to keep quiet in UC (unless you know sombody), some people seem to be too into the game, or get influenced by the violence. Doubt they swear in Elmos Letter Adventure (Number Adventure for you math finatics :P ).

Anyway, in regards to my previous post in this thread; I got X-box Live based on your reply Lynxfx, thank you for your help. :)

[LynxFX]

Glad to hear it C--B! :)

I'll see you on Live. :D

[SPARTAN VI]

Originally posted by Lynxfx-XBA
Glad to hear it C--B! :)

I'll see you on Live. :D

But you're hardly ever on... :(

[Prima J]

I have a few Q's.

I'm getting Road runner cable internet soon. And as a point of clarifacation, i don't want to use a router. So when i get it can i not just plug one end of the ethernet cable into the modem and the other into the Xbox?

[PapaSKooT]

Originally posted by Prima J
I have a few Q's.

I'm getting Road runner cable internet soon. And as a point of clarifacation, i don't want to use a router. So when i get it can i not just plug one end of the ethernet cable into the modem and the other into the Xbox?

yes, you can, thats what i do

[borka105]

that's what I do too.


-borka105

[carlbme]

That works great. The only reason most go for routers is so that they can still have a PC (and in my case phone) hooked up to the internet as well as their Xbox.

[Anthony4sho]

I gotta question.


This is the first time I have been on live since Janurary, and I switched providers(from charter 2 bellsouth)and i'm using a direct connection. My problem is, all the information changed, and now I have to put new info in my xbox for live. The *** at bellsouth says he cannot give me that info. However, I had this problem before with charter, and a WHILE back, some1 posted a command to run on your computer that will pull up all that information. Again tho, during my time with charter I was with windows 98, and now with bellsouth, I have Windows XP. There r two different commands I believe for each OS, and it was posted here back in november. Since I don't wanna look for it, Does anybody kno the command?

[LynxFX]

In XP just go

Start > Run and type in cmd

At the command prompt type "ipconfig" without the quotes. That should get you the network settings you need.

[HaloMadness]

I asked aol about the xbox live problem this is what i got back



Based on your mail, you have inquiries about using XBox Live in your AOL Broadband connection.

Thank you for your interest in AOL Broadband. We are pleased to inform you that AOL-provided DSL is now compatible with gaming consoles, including PlayStation2, XBOX, and Nintendo Game Cube.

However, AOL does not support set up issues with XBOX or Nintendo Game Cube. Please consult your user's manual for instructions on configuring their gaming console to connect to DSL.

The AOL screen name must be in the following format, screenname@aol.com. The password must be in all lower case with no special characters (asterisks, exclamation points, dollar sign, etc.) or spaces.

Example: Username: screenname@aol.com Password: abc1234

Moreover, at this time, AOL-provided Cable is still incompatible with PlayStation2, XBOX Live, and Nintendo Game Cube. AOL is working diligently to correct this issue.

For technical support for XBox Live, please visit its official web site at

http://www.xbox.com/

You can also check the ISP's that supports XBox Live in the link below:

http://www.xbox.com/default.htm

I hope that I have sufficiently provided you with useful information about your inquiry.



Well this says that AOL DSL now works on xbox live grrrrrrr i have aol cable
:cuss: :cry: :cuss:

[killerclint]

few stupid questions; does it matter how long the ethernet cable is?,i bought one 14 feet long,will this cause a long ping?,,and whats up with the starter kits subscriptions codes having an expire date?,,i just got one with an expired subscription code and i thought it was no good untill i called 18004myxbox. thanks for any help.

[carlbme]

You shouldn't have to worry too much about the cable., you can get cords several times longer than that and they would work fine.

As far as the expiration date of the code I honestly don't know anything about that.

[mastermind]

can you use symbols in your tag???

[mattgame]

I think this is a very informative thread. You can buy the headset seperate now by the way. Which brings me to my question? Can the headset be used without being online? And can anyone share with me how XSN is working out?

[kornavs19]

My friend said he has his computer hooked to his modem..and his xbox connected to the router and that works...

Heres my situation...
I wanna get XBL and i think i can...My house is under construction and so we ran some wires for the new comps while its open walled...I have my power for the comp and xbox...I have My cat 5 runnin from the router to my comp..The router is connected to a cable modem...What else do i need...Do i need another cat 5 to go from xbox to router...?
We bought 2 500ft spools of cat 5 cause we had alot of wiring..So i have extra...After that i geuss i have to put those jack ends on it which i have to do the crossover...Do u know what colors i have to cross over?

I think i have more questions but i gotta think..thanks in advance...

[Gosby]

thanks for the advice

[Conchord]

My cables are OK, but it says something about entering my DNS server in from network connections...wtf?

[selowitch]

Is there any way to notify myself of certain XBL events when I'm in the other room (e.g., if someone tries to join a game I'm hosting)?

[memphissheik]

Network questions....

here's the setup...
I have 2 pc's....an xbox and a gaystation 2.....I'm trying to set it up so that I can be online with any and or all devices at the the same time. I'm tired of pulling wires and hooking things back up. I went out and bought a 5 port 10/100 mbps Dual Speed Switch....right now, it's looking like a no go....any advice out there would be greatly appreciated. do I need a router..or is there something I'm missing?

[selowitch]

Network questions....

here's the setup...
I have 2 pc's....an xbox and a gaystation 2.....I'm trying to set it up so that I can be online with any and or all devices at the the same time. I'm tired of pulling wires and hooking things back up. I went out and bought a 5 port 10/100 mbps Dual Speed Switch....right now, it's looking like a no go....any advice out there would be greatly appreciated. do I need a router..or is there something I'm missing?
You don't necessarily need a router. The essential difference between a router and a switch is that a router will split your total available bandwidth among the various devices using it, while a switch will devote all of the bandwidth to the device currently in use. Unless you're performing a lot of other network operations (i.e., printing or file transfers) while doing XBL, a switch may actually be the most efficient option for you.

[Soundscape]

i'm getting a 2 month free trial of xbox live soon. so can i just unplug the pc from the the dsl modem, and plug the xbox into the modem...and i'm good to go from there?
sorry if this is a dumb question. i'm not very good with computers and i've never been on live before.
thanks for any help

[selowitch]

i'm getting a 2 month free trial of xbox live soon. so can i just unplug the pc from the the dsl modem, and plug the xbox into the modem...and i'm good to go from there?
sorry if this is a dumb question. i'm not very good with computers and i've never been on live before.
thanks for any help
You could do it that way but it's hardly optimal. You wouldn't be able to use the Internet from the PC at all (hence no web surfing, no e-mail, nada). A much better option is to:

purchase a network router, a hub, or (if you have two static IP address) a switch;
connect both the PC and the Xbox to the router/hub/switch's LAN ports using Category-5e ethernet cables;
connect the modem to the router/hub/switch's WAN port. In some cases, you will need an "Ethernet crossover cable" for this connection; in other cases, a straight Category-5e cable is needed (see your modem's documentation).

From there, the easiest configuration method is to set the modem up as a DHCP server and have the PC and Xbox obtain their IP addresses on an ad hoc basis.

There's some very good basic information on networking here (http://compnetworking.about.com/od/basicnetworkingconcepts/index.htm?terms=networking).

[SoundX]

Really helpful thread, however I still have some questions. Because I'm a complete newb when it comes to Xbox Live and hookin up.

What is a Ethernet NIC and what are RJ-45 Connectors?

[selowitch]

What is a Ethernet NIC and what are RJ-45 Connectors?
NIC = network interface card, standard on most PCs.
RJ-45 = a jack on either end of a Category-5 cable (you should use Category-5e) that fits into the port on a NIC card at one end and to either a router or a cable/DSL modem on the other.

Your Xbox has a NIC card built in. The port for that internal card is located on the back of the unit and bears the symbol attached to this message.

[SoundX]

Ah cool, I understand it now, thanks man.

[mangler]

:confused:

[selowitch]

Yeah, you'll always needs a credit card to use XBL. It's annoying and a little intrusive, but I'm sure they do it as a way to help make users more accountable and it probably helps keep away the truly irresponsible folks or the malicious ones who don't want to be correctly identified.

[mattgame]

I have my router, wireless, now what do I need to go on xbox live. It seems like I need something to go into my xbox, like an antenna or something.

[Soundscape]

i'm getting a 2 month free trial of xbox live soon. so can i just unplug the pc from the the dsl modem, and plug the xbox into the modem...and i'm good to go from there?
You could do it that way but it's hardly optimal.
well, it was working at first, but now i get a message that it doesn't detect a router. i don't understand because at first i just plugged the phone line into the xbox and it worked fine that way. then the other day i was gonna play a game of nba2k5 on live but that's when it kept giving me that message whenever i tried to connect. :confused:

[Casper]

well, it was working at first, but now i get a message that it doesn't detect a router. i don't understand because at first i just plugged the phone line into the xbox and it worked fine that way. then the other day i was gonna play a game of nba2k5 on live but that's when it kept giving me that message whenever i tried to connect. :confused:
Restart the DSL modem each time you change the connection from PC to the Xbox - that way it resets the MAC address that it has cached in it's memory and should detect it. Also, make sure that you added your info that you needed to in XBL settings on the dashboard in case it requires a password.

T Howell - you need a Xbox wireless adapter - http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B0000C5FMJ/102-3816532-5408912?v=glance - that's why I run a Cat5 cable right to it. That's the cheapest you'll find it I think, since XBox.com has it for $110.

[Soundscape]

nevermind...it's working fine now. thanks

[ColdArmoR]

Q: Can I sign up for live and use my ISDN connection.

A: Yes and No, according to Microsoft only cable or DSL connections offer the significant amount of bandwidth needed but technically you can get the connection but expect there to be a significant amount of lag.

Just hellping out, But Live works excellent on ISDN. There is almost no lag unless your in a 16 player game w/ more than 3 people that are out of the US. i ahve ben playing on Live for awhile now w/ ISDN. Sometimes I even have better ping than my friend who has Chater Cable. (He lives 5 - 7 miles away from me)

[Shorezy]

Hey guys,

Now I know i'm behind a firewall because File Sharing Programs like Ares and Limewire WILL NOT CONNECT. Should I be concerned about the xbox be able to connect? And can you please clarify the deal with a network of PC's having to be off in order to play the xbox? We're on Wireless and have up to three laptops running on the connection at once.

Also, speaking of Laptops, how can I see what kind of monitor I have, because i'm not sure if it's LCD or not, and since i'm buying a PAL box, and I already ordered a VGA adaptor, i'd love to know if it'll work or not.

Finally, are Wireless Bridges worth buying, and ate they just as good as the Xbox Wireless adaptor?

Thanks!

[Sam-XBA]

how can i find out if i am behind, or turn off a firewall?

[Casper]

how can i find out if i am behind, or turn off a firewall?
Go into your Router config and find out. Find what your default gateway of your setup is and then point to that in your browser. I'd advise checking out your router's site tho for the best steps.

[Casper]

Hey guys,

Now I know i'm behind a firewall because File Sharing Programs like Ares and Limewire WILL NOT CONNECT. Should I be concerned about the xbox be able to connect? And can you please clarify the deal with a network of PC's having to be off in order to play the xbox? We're on Wireless and have up to three laptops running on the connection at once.

That could be from your Windows firewall, not your routers.

Also, speaking of Laptops, how can I see what kind of monitor I have, because i'm not sure if it's LCD or not, and since i'm buying a PAL box, and I already ordered a VGA adaptor, i'd love to know if it'll work or not.

What kind of monitor? They're all LCD monitors on laptops. You should be fine with the VGA adapter - there's a VGA connection on the back of almost all laptops.

Finally, are Wireless Bridges worth buying, and ate they just as good as the Xbox Wireless adaptor?

Thanks!

Wireless bridge is what you'd need to connect your network with your router - basically an extension. You need the wireless adapter for the XBox to be able to use it on the wireless bridge. I'd advise getting a 4 port (or 8 port) wireless router - that way your 3 PC's can plug into it, plus you can use your Xbox wireless.

[masterdetective]

hey i was tring to go on live for the first time and whene i was attempting it am up somthing about my DNS and it said it was wrong can someone help and my high speed provider is zerizon online dsl does any one have that can help

[bcc24]

i'm thinking about getting live, but all i play is sports games, does live offer roster downloads, for espn nfl 2k5, ect......plmk, if so are these downloads available now, or are they gone since its an older game......thanx for any input

[Silent-XBA]

i'm thinking about getting live, but all i play is sports games, does live offer roster downloads, for espn nfl 2k5, ect......plmk, if so are these downloads available now, or are they gone since its an older game......thanx for any input

The updates are still there, however when I updated mine it was January's rosters. I am not sure if they are still going to update that title, they may not be able to with EA Sports having that license. All other sports titles offer updates but I don't know for how long on an old title. Does anyone know anymore about this?

[Rakham le rouge]

Hi and thanx for the infos,

I have a small question: I just bought an xboxlive kit, and I might switch to xbox360 before the end of this account. Can the account be transfered to my new xbox? Will the "old account" be valid for the new xbox?

Thank you!

[Sam-XBA]

As far as MS will have us know, Transferring your Live account from the original xbox to the 360 will be easy.
How we will do it has yet to be revealed, but the answer is that - yes you can use your old account on your new 360.

[Silent-XBA]

Yes, there is an account recovery section that you use to upload your XBL account to the 360, MS says it is easy

[an7on]

can some one help me get on to xbox live on my 360 when i try connecting my pc and xbox cant find each other on the set up sumthin about media connect and windows media centre can any 1 help thanks

[ishraider17]

Im trying to set up my xbox to my computer to share internet connection. Heres the deal.......im sharing internet with a neighbor who is a friend of mine. We just decided to split the cost and run it wireless. Well the internet works fine to my computer with the wireless as u can see.......well now i wanna connect my 360 straight to my computer and share the connection. I have set the internet sharing on my wireless connection and i try to connect with the 360 and it says it has the IP address but fails with the DNS server. Anybody know how to fix this? Or if its even possible?

[AROD]

Do i need to have my phone line connected to the computer for my live to work, thanks

[NiNeBReaKeR]

Do i need to have my phone line connected to the computer for my live to work, thanks
Connect your dsl/cable modem straight to your Xbox , OR conect your dsl/cable modem to a Router then you can have your Xbox AND computer online at the same time.

[john7435]

Hey
I just recieved an xbox live gold 13 month card from a freebie site and gave it to my cousin since i already have live

He signed up, and it worked. He updated and everything. now when he tried to play games by joining a game, no games show up when he tried to join. he said he has tried Halo 3 and other games
I'm not sure what his router is. I know it's a Linksys router though, i just don't know the model

Here's how it's set up
MODEM > router > xbox 360
> computer


the 360 is hooked into the router by a 100ft Ethernet cable
he hasn't changed any settings on his computer / router. he just hooked it in, and it let him sign up and sign into live and update, but won't let him see any games that he can join.

how can we fix this?

[Ainokeatoo-XBA]

Hey
I just recieved an xbox live gold 13 month card from a freebie site and gave it to my cousin since i already have live

He signed up, and it worked. He updated and everything. now when he tried to play games by joining a game, no games show up when he tried to join. he said he has tried Halo 3 and other games
I'm not sure what his router is. I know it's a Linksys router though, i just don't know the model

Here's how it's set up
MODEM > router > xbox 360
> computer


the 360 is hooked into the router by a 100ft Ethernet cable
he hasn't changed any settings on his computer / router. he just hooked it in, and it let him sign up and sign into live and update, but won't let him see any games that he can join.

how can we fix this?

Does it show him any games at all? Try having him check if his NAT is set to open maybe that'll help.

[john7435]

thanks for the reply.
it shows him no games at all he says
how does he check his NAT?

[john7435]

nevermind, we figured it out. NAT is open. what else could be wrong?

[Ry]

nevermind, we figured it out. NAT is open. what else could be wrong?

Is his routor blocking it maybe?

[john7435]

sorry its been so long
but how can we tell if it is being blocked by the router? do we have to open ports or something

[john7435]

bump
bump

[CrazyCougar]

If you are using a Linksys wireless router, then the chances are its your router that will hinder you from competing online at all times. The Linksys wireless routers are not compatible with Xbox Live completely. While they will work, you'll run into problems with other folks at times. Despite the Test Connection process reveals an Open NAT, it is not in fact true as the Linksys router in a sense produces a false test result.

Your best bet is to try hooking up directly to your modem and try a game that you experience difficulties in. You may notice immediately that you will not experience these problems when not behind the linksys firewall. This problem also occurs when your modem and router both have firewalls built in. They conflict heavily.

Solution : Pretty much either direct connection or a new compatible Xbox Live router is needed.

[nbaliver]

Ok. I just bought a 3 month card for live. I have a 360.
My modem is a Siemens Speedstream 4200. My computer is a windows 95.
When I first tried the test connections my MTU test failed and then I called my ISP and they changed the setting to 1365. But the test still failed. I called Microsoft and they were basically no help.
I dont know whate else I can try to do.
Give me some options.
thanks

[Conchord]

I think I know what the problem is... your modem is named after One-Eyed Willie juice.

What kind of moden is it? High speed internet? Are you using ethernet cables? Did you try unplugging your modem from its power source for a few minutes, with the cable plugged into your 360?

Other than that all I can recommend is buying the Papsmeare 9000, best modem on the market.

[Ainokeatoo-XBA]

... May I ask why in the hell you still have a windows 95?

[Conchord]

I am getting nostalgic for the days of Command and Conquer: Red Alert. Do not continue this conversation any further.

[nbaliver]

haha idk We just never switched computers. I was just thinking if it being a windows 95 if that mattered about having live? Yes I have ethernet cables and the modem is just from windstream. Its compatible I guess cause thats what microsoft said.
But I'll try unplugging it with the cables in.
Is a papsmeare 9000 really a modem?

[nbaliver]

Oh and yes I do have high sped internet.

[Conchord]

Is a papsmeare 9000 really a modem?

Anybody want to take this one?

[nbaliver]

Wow.
Um ok I came to this site to get some help on how to setup my xbox live.
Its obvious that none of you can help me. Im sorry that I dont know all the terminology that you know but I try not to make Xbox my life. Im just doing it for fun.
Thanks a lot for the help.

[Conchord]

Easy guy, it was a joke. I was merely making fun of the fact that the name of your modem sounded like "semen", and no there are no modems named after the medical procedure known as a pap. Sorry if I came off as a ****.

Ask Variation, he is usually the technical guy around here.

If your modem runs high speed internet fine through your PC but not your 360, then it could be a hardware malfunction in the console.

Like I said, try connecting the modem to your 360, with the power off on both (shut down the 360 and disconnect the modem from the power source). It resets the modem signal to allow it to send and receive information through a new source. If that doens't work, then I can't help.

Like I said, ask Variation.

[nbaliver]

I tried disconnecting the power source but it didnt work.
Umm would buying a new modem help at all?
And how do I find out if its a hardware malfunction?

[Conchord]

You could try a new modem, but keep its packaging intact in case it doesn't work. Call MS if thats the case and ask them for help. Worst case scenario is you get work order placed.

18004myxbox.

[nbaliver]

ok thanks conchord. I'll try that.
Sorry for flipping out earlier.

[Conchord]

Its okay I am used to it, my mom and my sister are bipolar.

[Mighty Miguel]

iv had my 360 for about a year or 2 now and am about to buy myself wireless
on thursday infact, (tomorrow) i just wanted to no how much it costs, through internet like i no the $50 fee for a year or watever it is BUT do i have any additional fees through using internet im sure the answers yes.. but how much would it be deer??

and will it have downloads.. coz we have Xamount of Giggs a months does xbox take up downloading space??

if this question is too hard then sorry:D

[SPARTAN VI]

iv had my 360 for about a year or 2 now and am about to buy myself wireless
on thursday infact, (tomorrow) i just wanted to no how much it costs, through internet like i no the $50 fee for a year or watever it is BUT do i have any additional fees through using internet im sure the answers yes.. but how much would it be deer??

and will it have downloads.. coz we have Xamount of Giggs a months does xbox take up downloading space??

if this question is too hard then sorry:D

Yes, the wireless adapter cost about $100USD at a retail store, but I've seen it for $80 and less.

As far as your bandwidth budget goes, I'm afraid it depends entirely on your usage. I don't know how many megs/gigs a gaming session would eat up, and even that depends on the game.