how to connect xbox controller to pc

well just what it says i would like to connect my xbox 360 controller to my pc but i cant, ive tried xpadder but it wont give me the option for "new" its just blank in the bottom box with a magnifying glass and controller in the left hand corner. ive downloaded the software from microsoft as well to let a controller run on my pc but still wont work, my computer recognizes it as" unspecified " do you guys have any tips ?

Install the drivers for the controller ?

Are you using a wired controller, and not a wireless one with the Plug-and-play kit?

Yea plug n play doesn't work must be wired or wireless with a usb adapter.

Yea plug n play doesn't work must be wired or wireless with a usb adapter.

KABCOOL

Did you buy the windows version or did you buy the 360 one and assume it would work?

i have a wireless XBOX controller not windows, dont know if it matters, have the drivers and i was just trying this one to see if i really needed to shell out more money because microsoft is a fat pig as it is...