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What are the Broadband Requirements for Xbox?

Broadband Gaming With Xbox Live

First and foremost, the most important part of playing broadband games on Xbox Live is actually having a broadband connection! Most providers will support broadband gaming for your Xbox, through either a cable or Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) broadband connection, but it is never a bad idea to double check. There are a few simple issues to address when thinking of entering the world of broadband gaming and since we’ve already touched upon providers, let’s move on to the various ways to hook up your Xbox.

Making Xbox Broadband Games Live

For playing broadband games there are three primary methods of connecting an Xbox to your cable or DSL modem:

Direct connection

This first method is the simplest. All that’s required to get your broadband games up and running is your modem and Xbox. If the only purpose for your broadband connection is gaming on your Xbox, this is the connection for you. Initially it may be necessary plug your computer into your modem to configure your broadband connection. Once the connection is properly configured, you’re then ready to plug the modem into your Xbox – and for some broadband games!

Router connection

Getting your Xbox ready for broadband gaming on a router is a more flexible way to enjoy your broadband connection. With the use of a router not only will you have access to broadband games but that same connection will also be available for use with your computer, making the most of your broadband connection. To use a router simply plug your modem into it. From there all it takes is two more cords: one running to your Xbox and the other to your computer.

Internet Connection Sharing

The last way to get your Xbox running broadband games is through Windows Internet Connection Sharing (ICS). With Windows ICS you use software to make your computer behave as a router, enabling you to connect your Xbox to your computer and receive broadband gaming speeds. In order for your broadband connection to be shared with your Xbox, you must use the ICS software to properly configure your system. Unlike a router which never has to be turned off, the drawback to using ICS is that your computer has to be running; otherwise the connection can’t get to your Xbox. ICS is more limited than the other two ways of hooking up your Xbox for broadband gaming, due to its operating system requirements (the later versions of windows) and modem requirements (either a USB or PCI based modem).

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