The first thing to take a look at when choosing the wireless networking adapter that you purchase will be the certified XBox Live compatible router list from Microsoft. Although you will not always need to have a router for game play, as you will be able to connect to the DSL or cable modem directly, it can also be much more practical to have an XBox Live Router set in place so that other computers in the house can also make use of the internet at the same time that the XBox is being played. There are many different routers that are certified to function with the XBox, such as those manufactured by Microsoft, D-Link, Linksys, Netgear, and Zyxel, but be sure to check for compatible model numbers just to be sure that your router will function.
Once you obtain the certified router, you might also need to make a few adjustments in the basic configuration in order to get things ready for use. If you have a router that is not one of the XBox Live approved models, you may need to adjust the NAT setting in order to use it effectively with the gaming system. If port forwarding is supported by your router, you might then like to adapt the port forwarding rules with the IP address of the XBox.
Though it may take a little bit of time to get all of the accessories set up for optimal XBox Live game play, it will be well worth it to have a wireless gaming adapter set and ready to go at any time. Instead of spending the additional time necessary to set everything up at anytime you want to play, you can simply use a wireless router for the ultimate in game play and online convenience.