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NAT Related Troubleshooting on Nintendo Switch 2 and Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, Nintendo Switch - OLED Model

The information in this article can help when you are experiencing Nintendo Switch online connectivity issues related to a network's NAT type.

Note
  • Networks with a more strict NAT type may prevent you from performing some online activities, such as connecting with other players online.
  • Both your NAT type and the NAT type any player you are attempting to connect with can affect the connection process. If you are having trouble connecting to a specific player, it is possible the issue may be caused by that player's NAT type.

What to do

First, determine how your home network is configured, and what type(s) of network device(s) are being used.

Most home networks use the following devices:

  • Combined Modem/Router: A device that both connects you directly to your Internet service provider, usually through a cable TV or phone service, and allows multiple devices to connect (either wired or wireless). If you only have one network device, it is likely a combined modem/router (also called a "gateway").
  • Modem: A device that connects you directly to your Internet service provider, usually through a cable TV or phone service, but only allows one other device to connect (usually a PC or a router).
  • Router: A device that allows multiple devices to connect (either wired or wireless), but does not connect directly to the Internet. A router will connect to either a modem or a combined modem/router before it can connect to the Internet.

If you're not sure what type of devices you have, you may wish to contact your ISP or whomever provided you with the network devices.

Which of the following best describes your network configuration?
  • Router connected to a modem
    1. Try turning off IPv6 Connection.
      • How to turn off IPv6 Connection
        1. Select System Settings from the HOME Menu.
        2. Select Internet.
        3. Select Internet Settings.
        4. Select your network name and select Change Settings.
        5. Select IPv6 Connection to toggle it off.
    2. Power cycle both your router and modem. Restarting your network devices may resolve this issue. Ensure both devices power back on again prior to performing a connection test on the console.

    If you would like to continue troubleshooting your network, please contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or network administrator for further assistance in optimizing your network for video game systems.

    If you would like to continue troubleshooting potential issues related to the wireless router, contact the router's manufacturer for assistance with performing the following steps:

    • Updating the wireless router's firmware
    • Resetting the router back to its factory default settings

    If you would like further assistance with your console, please contact us for support.

  • Combination modem/router
    1. Try turning off IPv6 Connection.
      • How to turn off IPv6 Connection
        1. Select System Settings from the HOME Menu.
        2. Select Internet.
        3. Select Internet Settings.
        4. Select your network name and select Change Settings.
        5. Select IPv6 Connection to toggle it off.
    2. Power cycle your gateway. Restarting your network device may resolve this issue. Ensure that it powers back on again prior to performing a connection test on the console.

    If you would like to continue troubleshooting your network, please contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or network administrator for further assistance in optimizing your network for video game systems.

    If you would like to continue troubleshooting potential issues related to the wireless router, contact the router's manufacturer for assistance with performing the following steps:

    • Updating the wireless router's firmware
    • Resetting the router back to its factory default settings

    If you would like further assistance with your console, please contact us for support.

  • Router connected to a combination modem/router
    1. Try turning off IPv6 Connection.
      • How to turn off IPv6 Connection
        1. Select System Settings from the HOME Menu.
        2. Select Internet.
        3. Select Internet Settings.
        4. Select your network name and select Change Settings.
        5. Select IPv6 Connection to toggle it off.
    2. Power cycle both your router and gateway. Restarting your network devices may resolve this issue. Ensure both devices power back on again prior to performing a connection test on the console.

    If you would like to continue troubleshooting your network, please contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or network administrator for further assistance in optimizing your network for video game systems.

    If you would like to continue troubleshooting potential issues related to the wireless router, contact the router's manufacturer for assistance with performing the following steps:

    • Updating the wireless router's firmware
    • Resetting the router back to its factory default settings

    If you would like further assistance with your console, please contact us for support.

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