What Do You Need to Get the PlayStation 3 Network?

High Speed Internet Connection

• The two most common high speed Internet connections are cable and DSL, but satellite Internet connections also work with the PlayStation Network. If you do use a satellite Internet provider, you may have difficulty with online gaming as the connection may not be as reliable as wired connections. Dial-up Internet connections will not work with the PlayStation Network because the download and upload speeds are not fast enough.

Cables or Routers

• To connect your PlayStation 3 to the Internet, you can either use an Ethernet cable for a wired connection or a wireless router. Run the cable directly from the modem that your Internet service provider has set up for you or, if you have a router, run the cable from that to the PS3. If you have a wireless router, you may also use this to connect to the PlayStation Network.

Firmware Updates

• Once you connect your PlayStation 3 to the Internet, you may see a message at the top left side of your screen indicating that you need to perform a system update. If you do not update the firmware in your PS3, you will not be allowed to connect to the PlayStation Network to download content or play games online. The message also gives instructions for how to perform the update -- follow them to download and install the new firmware.

Optional Items

• If you plan on playing games online, you may find it helpful to communicate with other players. Connect a Bluetooth or USB headset to your PS3 to speak with other players. If you want to download content, you must have either a valid credit card or you can purchase PlayStation Network credit at most big box department stores, electronics retailers, video game stores and even grocery stores and pharmacies. These are similar to gift cards and have instructions for how to redeem the credit printed on the back.