How to Start a New XBox Live Membership

Creating an Xbox Live Account

• 1

  Decide which membership suits you. Xbox Live offers a Silver and Gold membership for the Xbox. The free Silver membership includes a gamer profile, avatar, friends list and access to the marketplace--which allows you to shop for digital media, redeem Microsoft points for rewards or receive special offers during Gold Weekends. With a yearly payment of $49.99, the Gold membership offers video chat, online multiplayer gaming, early access to content, Netflix, exclusive discounts, access to Xbox Live parties and Photo Sharing.

• 2

  Turn your Xbox system on without a disc inserted.

• 3

  Connect your Xbox to the internet using a broadband connection. You may connect using a cable or through a wireless router.

• 4

  Select the "Join Xbox Live" option on your Xbox dashboard.

• 5

  Follow the instructions given to you. You will be asked for information such as your Windows Live ID (optional), email address, country, name, language and phone number. You can use either your Xbox controller and the on-screen keyboard or a keyboard connected to a controller port.

• 6

  Select the membership option you have decided on.

• 7

  Follow the online prompts and supply your contact address, Xbox Live Gamer Zone, communication preferences, time-zone and daylight savings option.