Get your gaming console online
Got a new Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3 or Xbox 360 and you want to know how to get it online? Follow CNET.com.au's easy step-by-step guide to learn everything you need to know.
Modern games consoles are no longer just static pieces of technology sitting in your living rooms. The newest consoles from Nintendo, Sony and Microsoft all have some sort of online connectivity which will allow you to play other gamers from around the world, download the latest games and trailers, and even play all your favourite retro titles (check out our gaming consoles online feature for a full breakdown of what each unit can do).
If you're having problem connecting your new console up online, then never fear -- CNET.com.au is here to help. Over the next few pages, you'll find easy step-by-step instructions on getting the Nintendo Wii, PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 onto the Web. Have fun!
1. You must have an existing stable broadband connection, such as Cable or DSL.
2. You will need the Wii LAN Adaptor (RRP AU$29.95) and an Ethernet cable.
3. Making sure your Wii console is switched off, plug in the Wii LAN Adaptor into the USB port on the back of the Wii console.
4. Plug the Ethernet cable into your modem or router and the other end into the Wii LAN Adaptor.
5. Assuring all connections are in, without a disc in the drive -- switch the Wii console on.
6. Once the Wii console is switched on, enter the Wii main menu and select the Wii button on the lower left side of the screen.
7. Select "Wii settings".
8. Select "Internet".
9. Select "Connection settings".
10. Select an empty slot indicated by "None".
11. Select "Wired connection".
12. Select "OK", allowing your Wii to test the connection.
1. You must have a stable wireless connection connected to your PC.
2. You will need the Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector (RRP AU$59.95).
3. Connect the Wi-Fi USB connector to a spare USB port on your PC.
4. Insert the accompanying CD and install the software needed for the Wi-Fi USB Connector.
5. Once the software installation is complete, switch on your Wii console.
6. Select the Wii button located at the lower left side on your screen.
7. Select "Wii settings".
8. Select "Internet".
9. Select "Connection settings".
10. Select an empty slot indicated by "None".
11. Select "Wireless Connection".
12. Return to your PC and open the connection program.
13. Right-click on the Wii's nickname and select "Grant permission to connect".
14. Once a connection to your Wii is established select "Next".
15. Return to your Wii console and select "OK" to test the connection.
How to get your PlayStation Online
1. You must have an existing stable broadband connection, such as Cable or DSL.
2. You will need an Ethernet cable.
3. Turn off the PlayStation 3, modem, and router.
4. With the Ethernet cable plug it into your modem or router then plug it in the Ethernet port at the rear of the PlayStation 3 console.
5. Assuring all connections are in, without a disc in the drive -- switch the PlayStation 3 console on.
6. In the menu, go to "Settings".
7. Select "Network Settings".
8. Select "Internet Connection Settings".
9. Select "Yes" when prompted that you will be disconnected from the Internet.
10. Select "Wired Connection".
11. In "Address Settings" select the "Easy" option.
12. Save the settings.
13. Test the connection when prompted to do so.
1. You must have a stable wireless Internet connection.
2. Assuring all connections are in, without a disc in the drive -- switch the PlayStation 3 console on.
3. In the menu select "Settings".
4. Scroll down and select "Network Settings".
5. Select "Internet Connection Settings".
6. For "WLAN Settings", select "Scan". A list containing wireless networks should be displayed; select your relevant network.
7. Once prompted for an SSID, scroll to "WLAN Security Setting".
8. It should display your relevant security setting. So if your network is WPA protected you will need to enter your WPA key for your wireless network.
9. Once your key is entered and you're in "Address Settings" select "Easy".
10. Save the settings and then run a Connection Test.
11. If successful in connecting, you will be prompted to download the latest PlayStation 3 update from the PlayStation Network.
How to get your Xbox 360 Online
1. You must have an existing stable broadband connection, such as Cable or DSL.
2. You will need an Ethernet cable.
3. Turn off the Xbox 360, modem, and router.
4. Plug the Ethernet cable into your modem or router then plug it into the Ethernet port at the rear of the Xbox 360 console.
5. Assuring all connections are in, without a disc in the drive, switch the Xbox 360 console on.
6. In the Xbox 360 Dashboard open the "System" blade.
7. Select "Network Settings".
8. Select "Test Network Connection".
9. Once all is confirmed press the "Back" button.
1. You must have a stable wireless Internet connection.
2. You will need the Xbox 360 Wireless Networking Adaptor (RRP AU$169.95).
3. Attach the Wireless Networking Adaptor to the rear of your Xbox 360 console.
4. Assuring all connections are in, without a disc in the drive, switch the Xbox 360 console on.
5. In the Xbox 360 Dashboard open the "System" blade.
6. Select "Network Settings", then enter your wireless network settings.
7. Go back to "Network Settings" and select "Test connection".
8. Select "Test Network Connection".
9. Once all is confirmed press the "Back" button.