By physically altering the gaming unit’s DRM technology, the user can play illegally pirated copies of popular games that would normally be blocked by the system. The immensely popular game “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2″ launched last week and it’s likely that some Xbox 360 players would be interested in playing a pirated copy on a modded console.

When Microsoft detects a modded console, they have the ability to ban that console from using the Xbox LIVE service due to the unique identification numbers that’s associated with every Xbox 360. While the system can still play games locally, the owner will not be able to sign into their LIVE account, access online content or play in multiplayer games with other Xbox 360 owners.

The bannings will also impact holiday shoppers looking to save money this holiday season by buying used Xbox 360s on eBay, Craigslist or through a local retailer who sells used consoles. Owners of blocked Xbox 360s may be looking to sell their systems without informing potential buyers of the situation.

If you are looking to buy a used Xbox 360, be aware that it may not be immediately obvious that the unit was physically modded. If possible, you’ll want to physically inspect the case to confirm that the seals on the back of the unit are not broken. Also make sure that there are no pry marks on the case that may indicate it has been opened. Another sign of a modded unit is when the A/V plugs aren’t aligned properly through the case holes.

If you have other questions about gaming technology, stop into your local Best Buy and speak with a Geek Squad Agent.

The update includes:

• Additional Netflix functionality like Party Watch and improved performance
• Download games on demand  
• User rating of content
• Interface improvements

And more… You can read about the details at xbox.com.

With innovations like this, it begs the question: are personal computers going to become obsolete?

The answer is “no.” But, as technology advances, we may not be as tethered to our personal computers, because we will have other devices to help us stay connected.

Microsoft’s goal is to make the XBOX360 an extension of your personal computer. They want consumers to be able to access music, movies and pictures on their television sets – all using the gaming console as the entertainment hub. And if you have access to all your entertainment content, you probably want access to your social networks. Instead of huddling around a small computer monitor trying to see what your friends posted, you will be able sit back on the couch with your controller and update your status or write a Tweet while playing your favorite games.

Of course, this means your game console is a bit more complicated. No more putting in a single cartridge and turning it on. (Or, when that fails, taking it out, blowing on it, and putting it back in. Tech support is a bit more complicated than that these days.)

So as your game console gets smarter, getting it to work 100% of the time can be difficult. If you’re having trouble accessing the Internet on it, or setting up parental controls, luckily Geek Squad offers up a service to help you. You can learn more about it here.