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How to Get a Cheap Network Adapter for the Xbox 360

Microsoft made it difficult to use anything other than their network adapter for wirelessly accessing Xbox Live. Trying to plug in any other wireless adapter into the USB port actually won't work because the Xbox 360 doesn't have the required drivers. There are a few alternatives that can save you on cost and still get you what you want. Once you get them up and running the first time, you will be ready to go every time.

Things You'll Need

Computer with wireless and wired network
Network adapter signal amplifier

Instructions

Computer
- 1
  Place a laptop or desktop computer, that has both a wireless and wired network card installed, near your Xbox 360. Computers can share a wireless network connection with other computers and devices.
- 2
  Plug a network cable from the computer to your Xbox 360 network cable port. Current operating systems will automatically connect other devices through a shared connection using a regular network cable.
- 3
  Turn the computer on and boot into Windows. The computer will connect to your wireless network as usual.
- 4
  Turn on the Xbox 360. When the Xbox 360 is turned on, the computer will see another connection available and will share Internet resources.
- 5
  Play games or log into Live; everything will work.
Wireless Gaming Adapter
- 6
  Purchase a wireless gaming adapter or wireless LAN extender. Either of these devices will allow you to connect to the Internet wirelessly in your home network. Shop for the best value but stick to known brands for reliability.
- 7
  Place the unit near the Xbox 360 and plug in a network cable from the device to the Xbox.
- 8
  Plug the adapter into a wall outlet and allow it to power up. This will work just like the computer did, sharing your configured Internet access.
- 9
  Turn on the Xbox and play your games or log into Xbox Live.

Xbox 360