What Is the Xbox Network?

Xbox Network is free for all players and lets you build a Friends list and chat online

The free version of Xbox Network, previously known as Xbox Live Silver, includes features that were once only available to gamers with paid Xbox Game Pass subscriptions (formerly Xbox Live Gold). Microsoft dropped the Xbox Silver designation and now offers free Xbox Network and paid Xbox Game Pass memberships.

Information in this article applies to the Xbox Network service for Xbox 360 and later. Microsoft has discontinued the Xbox Network onr the original Xbox.

Free Xbox Network Features

After you log in to your Xbox console and connect with Xbox Network, you must create a profile and a Gamertag. After that, you can take advantage of the many features that come with your free Xbox Network membership:

  • Enjoy music, sports, and premiere entertainment apps.
  • Use Microsoft Edge and Skype on your TV.
  • Earn achievements and improve your Gamerscore.
  • Preview upcoming games.
  • Access beta versions of games.
  • Make a friends list.
  • Download games and other add-ons from the Xbox Marketplace.
  • Exchange text and voice messages with other Xbox Network users.
  • Join a gaming community.
  • Party chat with other Xbox Network members.
  • Play multiplayer in free-to-play games.
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Your Xbox Network account is the same as your Microsoft account, so you only need to remember one login.

Xbox Network vs. Xbox Game Pass

While Xbox Network provides everyone with the aforementioned benefits, playing online requires an Xbox Game Pass Core or Ultimate membership for most games. Other benefits of Game Pass include exclusive demos and members-only sales, along with up to 75 percent off for select games, add-ons, and other items.

Game Pass also includes access to catalogs of titles that are free to download and play at no additional cost. The Core tier has a smaller lineup of a few dozen first- and third-party games, while Ultimate offers hundreds of options, including Electronic Arts games through EA Play.

Xbox Network Streaming Apps

In the past, free Xbox Network members couldn't use video streaming apps such as YouTube, Netflix, Hulu, WWE Network, Twitch, or VUDU. Now, those apps are available to everyone, though you still must pay any fees that individual services charge.

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