These instructions are detailed and proper.  You do not need to connect to Xbox Live to use the instructions!  The instructions will get you in to the internet as long as you have high-speed/broadband internet. 

You can use these to connect two Xbox consoles together, but lets make this one as simple as possible:
You either need the LINK (Crossover) cable for a direct port to port connection for Xbox to Xbox
-or-
You get a Hub/Switch and two regular bought network cables and plug each console into the Hub/Switch.  It is THAT simple!

COMPLETE GUIDES
Compatible Routers & Networking Equipment:
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/connect/ … anding.htm

DIRECT CONNECTION TO CBL/DSL/SAT MODEM
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/connect/direct.htm

CONNECT USING A ROUTER
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/connect/router.htm

GATEWAY CONNECTION (Gateway hardware required)
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/support/conne … ateway.htm

WIRELESS CONNECTION (Wireless Router/Access Point Required)
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/connect/ … onnect.htm
The ones made specifically for Xbox are actually Wireless Bridges, and not wireless "adapters."   You can't use a "wireless adapter" made for a PC, because they are all USB, and require software installation (drivers).  The one for Xbox360 actually is a wireless adapter, but also specifically made for Xbox360, as the drivers are built into the console.

WIRELESS BRIDGE (Wireless Router/Access Point Required)
http://www.wi-fiplanet.com/tutorials/ar … hp/1563991
Since Xbox must have an adapter designed for it, so that no drivers need installed, you can use a Wireless Bridge.  They are different than a wireless adapter.  If you are using a wireless router, the bridge will connect to the wireless access point (portion of the router) and supply LAN port for the Xbox.

CONNECT USING SHARED PC (Windows ICS)
Xbox to PC with X-Over cable.  This seems to be the HARDEST way to get on-line, avoid it of possible.
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/live/connect/windowsics.htm

CONNECT USING AN ELECTRICAL OUTLET
Wall-Plugged Ethernet Bridge.
http://www.netgear.com/products/details/XE102.php
Turns Any Electrical Outlet into a Home Network Connection. It plugs into an electrical outlet and uses your existing electrical wiring to give your entire household access to your LAN.


INTRODUCTION TO HOME NETWORKING [LAN]
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/support/conne … -intro.htm

MAIN PAGE
http://www.xbox.com/en-US/support/conne … efault.htm