How to stream Xbox games to a Windows 10 PC
There's no need to stop gaming when someone else needs the TV. You can continue playing Xbox One games right from your Windows 10 computer. Here's what you need to know.
Windows 10 has arrived with a handful of new features. Microsoft added the Cortana voice assistant to the desktop, a new Web browser, and we can't forget about the return of the Start button. One of the coolest features, however, has to be Xbox One game streaming. This is built directly into the operating system and allows any PC running Windows 10 to stream games from their Xbox One console.
Here's how to set it up:
Step 1: Launch the Xbox app. This is preinstalled on your computer with Windows 10 and can be found by typing "Xbox" in the search field next to the Start button.
Step 2: Sign in with your Xbox account and click the "Let's Play" button.
Step 3: Turn on your Xbox One and make sure it is connected to the same network as your computer. You can check the network on the Xbox One by going to Settings, followed by Network. You will also want to make sure that game streaming is enabled. This can be found in the Preferences section of the Settings menu.
Step 4: Select the "Connect" option from the left side bar of the Xbox app. Your Xbox should appear on the screen. If it doesn't, click enter the console's IP address. You can find the IP address for your Xbox One by going to Settings, clicking on Network, followed by Advanced settings.
Step 5: Plug the Xbox One controller into the computer, select Stream, and begin gaming.
A recent update to Xbox app has also added a new "very high quality" streaming mode. You can change the quality of your stream in the Xbox app on Windows 10 by going to Settings, followed by Game Streaming. The "very high" option will require a fairly high-end router and wireless network. If you experience choppy gameplay, lower the quality of the stream to high, medium, or low.
Check out CNET's complete guide on Windows 10 for even more tips and tricks.