The key of Xbox Live Starter Kit
The key thing to remember is that, unlike the PlayStation 2 Network Adaptor, Xbox Live is a service in a box. With the former you're buying a piece of hardware and must depend on your Internet service provider and individual games for online functionality. With Xbox Live you still must depend on your ISP, but you get a host of other features that unify the Xbox online experience across the board.
First off is the all important GamerTag. When you sign up for Xbox Live you get to choose a single identity that's used worldwide across all Xbox Live games. Each account gets one identity so it will take a tremendous effort for another gamer to impersonate you. Once you choose your GamerTag you can set up a friends list. This enables you to quickly find your fellow Xbox Live buddies so you can set up matches. Each player can track their progress in games with a universal ranking system.
Xbox Live games utilize two forms of matchmaking: "QuickMatch" and "OptiMatch." The former allows you to jump right into an online game with a single press of the button. OptiMatch, an Xbox Live exclusive, lets you select games and opponents based on similar skill levels.
