[vin17]

Ace,

From what I recall reading, the second ranking system (the one based on experience) was implemented with the hopes that it would discourage players who were contemplating cheating from doing so.

Although it would take much longer than the highly skilled players, everyone that plays Halo 3 could conceivably reach the highest rank.

Jazzy,

I believe your system came with 5 one month Gold trials. So when you create a Silver account, it should give you that option.

As for fees, you can choose to pay a monthly fee or a one time fee for 12 months. If you don't want to use a credit card, you can buy subscription cards in varying lengths of subscription time. Make sure you have a Windows Live account.