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How to Share Windows Media Player With an Xbox

In addition to accessing media stored on the system's hard drive, the Xbox 360 offers the ability to stream audio, video and photo content from Window Media Player over a home network connection. Xbox 360 owners can stream media directly from their Windows-equipped home PC to the Xbox 360 for home theater access through a wired or wireless networking connection. The PC and Xbox must both be on the same home network to stream content. Microsoft provides tutorials outlining the process of connecting an Xbox 360 to a home network, if necessary (see Resources).

Things You'll Need

Xbox 360
PC running Windows XP Service Pack 2 or later
Windows Media Player 11 or later
Router for home networking
Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter or Ethernet cable

Instructions

Enabling Sharing with Windows Media Player 11
- 1
  Click on the "Windows Media Player" icon on your PC to begin the program.
- 2
  Click on the small arrow below the "Library" tab on the Windows Media Player screen. Click "Media Sharing" from the drop-down window of options.
- 3
  Click the check box titled "Share My Media To." Windows Media Player will search for compatible devices. Once it has discovered the Xbox 360, click the Xbox icon and click "Allow" to enable the sharing connection over your home network.
Enabling Sharing Using Windows Media Player 12
- 4
  Click the Windows Media Player 12 icon to open the program.
- 5
  Click the "Stream" button at the top menu bar of the Media Player screen. Click "Turn on Home Streaming." The option will not be available if home streaming has already been enabled.
- 6
  Click "Turn On Media Streaming" from the Media Streaming Options page. Enter an administrator password, if required, and click "OK" to confirm your choice. Windows Media Player 12 streaming will now be enabled over your home network.
Accessing Shared Media Player Content on an Xbox 360
- 7
  Turn on your Xbox 360 and PC, as well as any routers or devices necessary for the proper functioning of your home network.
- 8
  Highlight the type of media your wish to access from the "My Xbox" section of the Xbox 360 menu and press the "A" button. Videos, music and pictures can all be accessed.
- 9
  Highlight the name of your computer from the media source options on the Xbox 360 screen and press the "A" button. You will now be able to browse and access the media stored on your PC over your home network.

Xbox 360