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How to Connect an Xbox 360 Wirelessly Without a Network Adapter

Microsoft's Xbox 360 console system offers gamers more than just cutting edge graphics and an expansive game library. One perk of owing a 360 is the availability of downloadable content (DLC) in the form of exclusive videos, online game play, game maps or in-game items. If you want to connect to the Internet wirelessly, an adapter is sold separately that allows access to the Live Marketplace DLC. Luckily there's an alternative access method for those not wishing to shell out the additional $70 to $100 for the official adapter.

Things You'll Need

Wireless network card

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a wireless network card if you don't already have one installed on your laptop. Start your laptop and follow the instructions included with the card, then restart your computer. Place your computer in the vicinity of your Xbox 360 console.
- 2
  Insert a short cat5 network Ethernet cable into the appropriate network slot on your computer and insert the opposing end to the network slot on the rear of the 360. Check your computer to ensure you are logged in as the administrator.
- 3
  Click on "Start" to open the Control Panel, then double click "Network Connections." Once it opens, click on the "Advanced" option, then click the option "Allow Other Network Users to Connect Through This Computer's Internet Connection." Click "OK" at the prompt. Power up the 360 and log on to Xbox Live with your Live ID.
- 4
  Click "System Preferences" if you're linking the 360 with a MAC. Click on "Sharing," then the "Internet" tab. Click to start the Internet sharing feature, then power up your Xbox and log on to Xbox Live with your Live ID. If you're having trouble accessing Xbox Live following the laptop linking, simply follow the steps again because the restart may have now disabled the Sharing capability.

Xbox Live