What Do You Need for Xbox Live Gold?

One of the best things about the modern generation of video game consoles is that it allows you to play with your friends online. To do this on Xbox, you'll need Xbox Live Gold. It gives you full access to all of Microsoft's online Xbox functionality, including the ability to download demos and trailers and play multiplayer games online. Luckily, getting started with Xbox Live Gold is quick and easy.

Xbox

The most important part of Xbox Live Gold is the Xbox. If you don't have one yet, you'll need to purchase one from an online vendor or your local electronics store. You can also get used Xboxes from online auction sites, yard sales and other used goods sellers. However, one advantage of buying a new Xbox is that they usually come with a free one-month Xbox Live Gold subscription.

Internet Connection

The first thing you'll need to use Xbox Live--Gold or Silver--is a broadband internet connection. You'll need to connect your Xbox to your Internet router using an Ethernet cable. If you're not sure where your internet router is, or how to connect things to it, call your Internet service provider and they'll be able to tell you how to use the hardware they've installed.

Microphone and Headphone

To use the voice chat features of Xbox Live Gold--the main way people communicate while playing games--you'll need a headset. Most Xbox packages come with a headset, but if you want to connect more than one player, or if your Xbox did not come with a headset, you will need to purchase one online or from your local electronics store.

Subscription

After you've got all the hardware set up, you'll need to purchase access to Xbox Live Gold from Microsoft or a reseller. Many retailers carry Xbox Live Gold subscription cards with subscription periods ranging from 2 days to 13 months. When you receive your Xbox Live Gold subscription card, you'll need to enter the information into your Xbox to activate it. Detailed instructions are written on the back of the card.

References

• Xbox: Join Live

About the Author

Samuel Porter has degrees in computer science and law. Before joining Demand Studios, he often wrote technical documents as a part of his software consulting work and contributed to community forums covering a wide variety of technical topics.

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