I had annoying issues when streaming live TV or Recorded TV on Vista Media Centre but only with HD content. I just upgraded to Windows 7 beta and the problem didn’t improve. I must admit I always just blamed the xbox360; its an easy target. The bandwidth tuning tool in the 360 extender always indicated full bandwidth and suitability to HD content so it does have some issues there.  It maybe more relevant for wireless networks I’m guessing.

I have a thoroughbred GB network and felt this problem shouldn’t exist so I decided to invest some time fixing the issue.

I eventually resolved the problem by updating the drivers and forcing the speed of the network device. Nothing too scientific thankfully. My faith is restore in the 360.

Not sure if the drivers, the config or both changes actually resolved the problem but my 360 now boots and reacts much faster; unfortunately its no quieter.

JohnH