How to Set Up an Xbox With a Wireless Router

by Andrew Mikael
The 360's networking features give it access to new content and multiplayer games.

The 360's networking features give it access to new content and multiplayer games.

Paul Hawthorne/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images

The Xbox 360 console connects to Microsoft's Xbox Live service for access to multiplayer gaming, game downloads, content additions and social networking. If you want to connect to Live using a Wireless router, you can either use Microsoft's official Xbox wireless USB adapter, or share the wireless connection from a laptop with wireless capabilities. The Xbox 360 will not operate correctly with generic USB adapters. The newest Xbox 360 S version of the console has a built-in Wi-Fi adapter, and requires no external hardware to work with wireless routers.

Wireless USB Adapter or Built-in Wi-Fi

Step 1

Connect an official Wireless Network Adapter to the front port of the console if necessary and turn the system on. Ensure the system is placed within effective range of the wireless router.

Step 2

Open the "My Xbox" section of the system's main menu and select "System Settings." Open "Network Settings" and then select "Wireless Mode."

Step 3

Open the "Scan for Networks" option. Wait for the list to populate and select the router's network from the list to initiate a connection. Enter a password if required. Use the "Test Xbox Live" option to ensure the connection operates correctly.

Laptop Shared Connection

Step 1

Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to a laptop with an installed wireless card, and the other end to the Ethernet port on the Xbox console. Place the laptop in range of the wireless router and turn it on.

Step 2

Share the laptop's Internet connection. This process allows the Xbox to use the laptop's wireless connection via the connected Ethernet cable. Share a connection in Windows from the "Sharing" tab of a network's Properties window, or in OS X from the "Sharing" section of the System Preferences menu.

Step 3

Turn on the Xbox console and open the "System Settings" icon in the My Xbox tab. Open "Network Settings" and select "Wired Network."

Step 4

Open "Configure Network." Set both the "IP Settings" and "DNS Settings" to "Automatic." Close the window and use the "Test Xbox Live" option to confirm the connection.

About the Author

Andrew Mikael began writing in 2010. His articles appear on various websites, where he specializes in media and related technology. Mikael has a Bachelor of Arts in film from Montana State University.

Photo Credits

  • Paul Hawthorne/Getty Images Entertainment/Getty Images