Cannot connect to Xbox Media Center

I got windows 7 and a new laptop last week and I've been trying, with no luck, to get the media center on the xbox to work. I am able to use the PlayOn service and watch hulu, youtube, etc, but media center will not work, here is what happens.
1. The media center just won't ever connect, it will load up and say connecting then say unable to connect. This happens about 9/10 times
2. The media center will connect, but be unusably slow.

I did the test on the computer and it stated that my connection was high enough, when it would actually make the connection.

Like I said PlayOn, works perfectly so the connection is fast enough to stream video.

I have not gotten the regular file sharing to work either on the xbox, it will list the files, but none of them will be "compatable".

My xbox is wired to my router, my computer is wireless, and I'd rather not have to plug it in (its a laptop)

My computer is a 2.2 ghz, 4gb ram, ati video card.

Any help? I've tried to search online, but haven't found many suggestions to fix the problem.

I am fairly sure that wireless will not work for setup from a PC to Xbox using MCE, but...

Just for testing purposes - plug the laptop into the router, disable your wireless, reboot, try again and report back.

Also, while you may have enabled file sharing on your PC review the advanced section and check your firewall(s)

firewalls are all off, I will plug in and check when I get home....
why wouldn't it work with wireless... it gives you the option to test your wireless signal strenght in the windows media center program.

Have you tried creating a new user account, for example 'MCE' and trying to setup the extender from there?

I had this problem a little while ago and tried all manner of 'fixes' from messing with Group Policy settings (Remote Desktop and stuff), to adding around 12 ports to the Windows Firewall.

Eventually I tried a new account (admin) and it worked with both my Xbox's straight away.

Just a thought. :)

I actually prefer the 'Play To' feature though, it's massively quicker and more responsive than the full WMC extender experience.

Play To, as in the dashboard? That's not working either, it lists my files, but they all have the crossed out circle sign next to them.

I would make sure your HomeGroup is set up correctly, and make sure under Advanced sharing settings that 40- or 56-bit encryption is enabled and NOT 128-bit.

Also make sure your device is Allowed under Media streaming options, again via the HomeGroup control panel.

You could also try resetting your Xbox 360 to default network settings under System > Network Settings.

It might also be worth power cycling your router, then turning on your Xbox 360, then your PC. Allowing each device to reach its ready stage.

You might want to read here:

Windows 7 RC1 Media Center Xbox 360 Extender - Lag when fast forwarding

Also another excellent resource:

Windows 7 Media Center Extenders - The Green Button

I hope this helps, I know this whole process can be a pain.

Sorry, I forgot to say, you may have to start the extender setup from scratch on your Xbox 360 after trying one or more of these steps.

Make sure you choose new connection from your Xbox 360, under Media Center, then get the code and try again from your laptop.

I know there is also an optional media update for the Xbox, for MP4 files etc. I think I managed to download it by trying to play several files.

I apologise if my instructions are a little vague, I am pulling this all from memory as there are people in the living room and bedroom.

I've tried all of the suggestions above.
Wired it works fine.
I added the regedit key, that seems to help a bit.
The initial connection still does not always go through.
My libraries are slow and unusable when I do connect.
Usually after connecting for a few minutes it randomly disconnects.
While connected I usually have HD level signal.
The problem now may be my libraries loading, Is there anyway around this? I've allowed it to load for like 10 minutes and it still didn't finish... I have alot of music.
Any ideas?

jstnhickey said:

I've tried all of the suggestions above.
Wired it works fine.
I added the regedit key, that seems to help a bit.
The initial connection still does not always go through.
My libraries are slow and unusable when I do connect.
Usually after connecting for a few minutes it randomly disconnects.
While connected I usually have HD level signal.
The problem now may be my libraries loading, Is there anyway around this? I've allowed it to load for like 10 minutes and it still didn't finish... I have alot of music.
Any ideas?

I am a bit unclear on whether your wired set up is working now...if not:

I suspect an out of date router or network card.

Check with the router manufacturer for an update for the router. Specific updates were released for some routers to adddress a connectivity issue with the XBox.

Check both Microsoft Update (note Microsoft Update includes hardware updates and is not the same as Windows Update) and with the manufacturer of your device for updated drivers for your network card.

There is also a list of logo'd connectivity products for the XBox here:

Home Networking Equipment

It also would not hurt to test or replace your Ethernet cables to ensure it is not a cabling issue.

Sorry that lost post was a bit confusing. Everything works fine wired. I will check my router and wireless card for updates.