Xbox 360: You cannot connect to Xbox Live by using a wireless connection (908886)



The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Xbox 360
  • Microsoft Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter
  • Xbox Video Game System

SYMPTOMS

You cannot connect to Xbox Live by using a wireless connection. The test in Network Settings verifies that the wireless adapter that is connected to your console is connected to a wireless network.

CAUSE

Many conditions can cause this behavior. See the "What To Try" section for the troubleshooting steps.

THINGS TO TRY

  1. If you are using an Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter, verify that an Ethernet cable is not plugged in to your console's Ethernet port.
  2. Verify that your wireless access point, gateway, or router is turned on.
  3. Remove any obstructions between your Xbox 360 console and your wireless access point.
  4. Turn off any devices that may interfere with your wireless network. For example, microwave ovens or 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) telephones.
  5. If you are using an infrastructure network, make sure that the security settings on your wireless adapter match the settings on your wireless access point, gateway, or router. For example, your WEP key or WPA passphrase must match.
  6. If you are establishing an ad hoc network, make sure that the network name, channel, band and security settings match the settings on the device that you are establishing a connection with. The adapter may appear connected even if you cannot establish a connection. This behavior occurs if the adapter can find the network, but the network has not provided the correct access to the adapter for valid data transfer. To access the network, the adapter must have the correct security settings.

    If you do not know these settings, you must access the software for the wireless access point. Typically, you can connect to the wireless access point through a Web browser. Because the default settings can vary for different routers, you should see your wireless access point, gateway manual, or contact the manufacturer for more help.

    To establish a successful connection, you must obtain the following three pieces of information from the wireless access point:
    • The Network Name (SSID)
    • The Security Type (either WEP 64 or 128-bit or WPA)
    • The Security Key
    Add this information in Network Settings section of the Xbox Dashboard.
  7. If you have MAC filtering enabled on a networking device such as a wireless access point, a router, or a gateway, make sure that you add the MAC address of the Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adapter to the list of allowed MAC addresses on the networking device.

    If you are using a wireless Ethernet bridge, make sure that you add both the MAC address of the Xbox 360 console and the MAC address of the wireless bridge to the list of allowed MAC addresses on the networking device.

    For more information about MAC filtering, see the manual for your networking device or contact the manufacturer of the device.
  8. If the wireless strength indicator reports a poor connection, follow these steps to find a resolution:
    1. Adjust the antenna on your adapter or router. Start with the antenna pointing upward and away from any adjacent cables. Certain areas, such as directly under the antenna, receive relatively poor reception. Pointing the antenna toward another wireless component does not improve reception.
    2. Verify that your wireless network is not out of range. Put your Xbox console in the same room as your wireless router or second Xbox console, and then try again.

MORE INFORMATION

For more information about how to connect to Xbox Live, visit the following Web sites: For more information about how to troubleshoot wireless settings, click the following article numbers to view the articles in the Microsoft Knowledge Base:

908877 Xbox 360: How to configure wireless settings for infrastructure mode

907602 Xbox 360: How to troubleshoot the Xbox 360 Wireless Network Adapter


Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:10/9/2006
Keywords:kbxboxext kbXboxPeripherals kbXboxLiveConnectivity kbXbox360AmericasPortal kbXbox360EuropePortal kbXbox360PacRimPortal kbPubTypeKC kbtshoot KB908886