Want to connect Xbox to PC - need router?

caz1965

I have Virgin Broadband, with a cable modem, and want to connect my son's Xbox to it, so they can play online and download games.
Can someone please help me choose what to buy, and the cheapest option, as i don't want to spend alot, in case this online thing is only a fad, and it doesn't get used after a few weeks.
Thank for any help!

gazza007

Firstly it all depends on the location of you Ethernet Modem or Digital TV Box that you use to connect to your PC & where you will be playing on the Xbox.
If it is nearby in the same room a wired DSL Router will be sufficient. Makes such as DLINK, BELKIN & LINKSYS all available for around £30 or less from PC World etc
You just plug the ethernet cable from your Virgin Modem or TV Box to the router then use an ethernet cable for the PC & Xbox connections.
If in a different room and can't get a cable to Xbox you will have to go wireless, for this you will need a wireless DSL router which will cost a little more. You can still use a wired connection for your PC from the router but will need a wireless adaptor for the Xbox which are around £50.
Also bare in mind that you will need to subscribe to XBOX Live which is around £40 a year and a headset for the controller to communicate with others which is around £15.
Saying that both my Boys have been on since they have had their 360's & absolutely love it.

Little_John

What a pants reply from gazza007 I will clear a few things up for you.

Maybe you missed the bit where he said " cable modem"

You dont need to buy a DSL router or DSL wireless router There has been alot of confusion in the past over nameing of DSL and broardband so you need to be sure what you are buying, you need to buy a router for a cable connection. DSL routers are for phone line connections and have a modem built in to them. They can work with cable but you will be paying extra for the modem part of it that you wont need. The wireless function now usually doesnt cost that much more so it may be adviseable just to buy a wireless router anyway for future flexablity.

the 360 can be wired or wireless with the wireless adaptor but that is pretty expensive for a wireless adaptor but unfortunatly it is the easiest solution if a cable isnt an option. it is possible to cut costs by using another wireless router and useing it as a bridge but it requires a litttle more configuration.

Also there are 2 levels of xbox live, silver and gold
Silver allows online recording of your profile and downloading online content from the market place. This is free.
Gold allows online play against other people and the above stuff this requires a subscription. £40 a year in shops but can be got for less in other places. you can also get vouchers for free months in games you buy.

gazza007

not all pants, Sorry genuine mistake on the router!!!