How to Set Up Xbox Wireless Adapters

by Benny Taylor
Internet gaming is possible with the Xbox 360 wireless adapter.

Internet gaming is possible with the Xbox 360 wireless adapter.

Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images

The Xbox 360 wireless adapter lets you connect your Xbox 360 console to your home wireless network. Once connected, your Xbox can access the Internet and Microsoft's Xbox LIVE service, which offers game downloads and a range of multiplayer gaming options. The Xbox 360 wireless adapter is compatible with the common home Wi-Fi standards: 802.11a, 802.11b and 802.11g, and supports WEP and WPA encryption methods.

Connecting the Wireless Adapter

Step 1

Power off your Xbox.

Step 2

Attach the wireless adapter to the rear of the Xbox by easing the tabs into the small slits located beside the USB and Ethernet ports.

Step 3

Remove any existing cable from the Ethernet port if necessary, and then connect the wireless adapter's USB cable to the Xbox USB port.

Step 4

Unfold the aerial from the wireless adapter.

Connecting to Wi-Fi

Step 1

Power on your console. The Xbox Dashboard menu will appear.

Step 2

Select "My Xbox" from the menu with your controller and press "A." Then choose "System Settings" and press "A."

Step 3

Select "Network Settings" and press "A."

Step 4

Select the "Configure Network" option and press "A," then select "Scan for Networks" and press "A."

Step 5

Choose your Wi-Fi network from the list and press the "A" button. With encrypted networks, a screen will appear where you must enter your network password (key). Using your controller and the on-screen keyboard, enter the key and select "Done," then press "A" when finished.

Step 6

Wait a few moments. If you have entered the information correctly, you will connect to the network and your connectivity information, including your IP address, will appear on the "Configure Network" screen.

Step 7

Use your controller to highlight the "Test Xbox LIVE Connection" option and press "A." At this point you may have to update your Xbox software. Select "Yes" and press "A."

Step 8

Wait for the update and test to complete. Your wireless Internet connection is now active.

Tip

  • The indicator lights on your wireless adapter help you to establish the connectivity status. A solid green light indicates a successful connection. A solid red light indicates the adapter is ready to connect, and a flashing red light indicates a hardware failure.

Warning

  • Online gaming for extended periods can consume a lot of Internet bandwidth. If your broadband package includes a limited amount of data transfer, be careful to check your usage with your ISP to avoid additional charges.

About the Author

Benny Taylor has been writing travel, food and computer articles since 2009. His articles about Portugal have been featured by “Living Abroad” magazine. Taylor studied ITIL IT service management in the City of London and is also a Microsoft-certified small-business specialist.

Photo Credits

  • Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images