Xbox 360 Media Server Setup

Netflix

We all know you can browse movies through Xbox Live and buy films through the Movie Marketplace, but if you already have an unlimited Netflix subscription (those that cost $8.99 a month and up), you can stream some movies directly to the Xbox at no additional cost. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fire up your Xbox, sign into Live and head to the Video Marketplace. You’ll need to download the Netflix application, which should be one of the very first options. It’s under 4MB, so it will download and install in moments.

Xbox Video Marketplace

2. The first time you run the Netflix application, it will spit out an activation code and ask you to enter it online at Netflix.com/activate. Write down all six letters, then head to the site and plug it in.

Netflix Activation Screen

3. Enter your username and password to associate your existing Netflix account with your Xbox.

Netflix Member Sign In Screen

4. Before you head back to the Xbox, you’ll need to pick which movies you want available on the machine. Yes, you need a computer to pick movies – it can’t be done from the Xbox. We realize how absurd this really is, and so does Microsoft, because the next major Live update will remedy the situation when it comes out in the fall. But until then, log in to Netflix on your PC and open the “Watch Instantly” tab on your to view only those movies that can play instantly. Select the titles you want, and add them to your queue by clicking “Add to Instant.”

Netflix Instant Queue

5. Head back to your Xbox and open Netflix, if it isn’t already open. The titles you selected on the PC should all be available. Pop some popcorn, click play, and you’re off to the movies!

Netflix streaming on an Xbox 360