New 360 owner with a few questions

I've been playing Nintendo and Sony's systems for a while but I got a 360 today. I love it. Played it for the past 4 hours. I just have a few questions.

How well does the wireless networking adapter work? I can't run a cable from my room all the way downstairs to my modem so this is my only option. Is it a good connection?

I haven't heard good things about 360's life span. Is ALL your data and profile on your hard drive so you can transfer all your information to another system if necessary?

Also what is the average amount of achievement points you get from games? I'm at like 30 from Gears of War. Does it just vary depending on the game?

Thanks for the help!

THe wireless adapter is ok.

When you send in the 360 for repair you keep the HDD, so if they send you a different one you just plug it in.

1000points max.

Now, Every game will have 1000 points.

I bought my 360 11/22/05 and I have had 0 problems, yet I play almost everyday. Keep it in a well ventalated area.

Dont get hooked on achievements or soon you'll find yourself giving waay too much time to the rubbish games that dont deserve it...

All games have 1000 "Gamer Points" but some have more due to downloadable content packs. For offline-only games, you'll probably rack up about 500-600 points in the first play through. I got about 500 for Gears in two play throughs (Hardcore). Online games usually have half or more of their achievements online-only.

Also be sure to grab an extended warranty for the Xbox if you can afford it. I've had mine for a year without any issues, but you never know. I don't have any experience with the wireless adapter either, but i assume it works well if it doesn't have to transmit through many walls.