Microsoft's experience with personal computer software and hardware is apparent in the Xbox's design. The hardware is quite similar to computer hardware at the beginning of this century. The Xbox hardware and software is discussed in the 'Xbox Hardware and Software' section.

An Xbox can be modded to unleash it's true potential. A modded Xbox can be used as a media center, and it is probably one of the best (and cheapest) media centers available.

Modding an Xbox can be done by adding a modchip to the Xbox, or by flashing the TSOP. The third, and probably the easiest way to mod an Xbox is by applying a softmod. Modding an Xbox using a softmod is explained in the 'Xbox Softmod Installation' section.