Networking your PS2
What do I need?
For Playstation 2 (PS2) online gaming, you'll need a PS2 console. If you have an older PS2, you'll need a Network Adapter and Network Access Disk (NAD). Your Network Access Code is packaged with your adapter and NAD and looks something like this: 1234567-8912345.
If you purchase a new slim PS2, it already contains an integrated network connector so there is no need for a Network Adapter. Your Network Access Code is the number shown on the back of your console's registration booklet. You will still require a NAD.
The latest NADs allow you to select AOL as your ISP, making it really easy to get set up. If you have a network-enabled PS2, you can get a NAD by registering online at www.ps2registration.com. Alternatively, you can complete the registration card that came with your console and a NAD will be mailed to you.
You will also require a PS2 Memory Card (8MB) with at least 94KB of free space. Ensure you make a note of your PS2's model and serial number. These numbers are located on your console. You need both numbers to complete your regitration. If you have a PS2 with an external Network Adapter, this information should be noted down before installing the Network Adapter.
In all cases you'll need an AOL Broadband account and a PC with the following:
-- A Network Interface Card (NIC), which provides a free Ethernet port on your computer
-- Windows Vista, XP or 2000 (ICS requires Windows XP)
-- AOL 8.0 or above
In very rare cases, subscription fees may apply for PS2 online play.
AOL Parental Controls are unable to restrict web access through external browsers where a computer is linked for network gaming.
Which solution should I choose?
- Internet Connection Sharing (ICS)
This solution uses Internet Connection Sharing (ICS) to connect your gaming console to your existing AOL Broadband-enabled computer. You will need to use a special ethernet cable (known as crossover cable), plugging it into a spare ethernet port on your computer and sharing the connection using ICS. Your computer acts as a gateway and must be powered on at all times while playing online.
Note: Currently, this works with AOL 8.0 and above only. Your computer must have Windows XP.
- Direct connection
This solution uses an ethernet modem such as a BT Voyager 190 for the connection. You will need to use a network ethernet cable, plugging it into the modems ethernet port. Your computer acts as a gateway and must be powered on at all times while playing online. You cannot connect your PC to the internet when using a direct connection.
- Modem router connection
This solution uses an AOL Broadband supported modem router for the connection. You will need a straight ethernet cable to connect your PS2 to the router. With this solution, your computer does not have to be switched on to allow you to play online. Plus, this is ideal if you require a home network, allowing you to share your AOL DSL broadband connection between your games console, your computer and other devices.