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Requirements to Connect Nintendo Switch to the Internet

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

Nintendo Switch can connect online with a wireless connection or, when through use of a LAN adapter, a wired connection. Connecting online will allow you to play with other players around the world, buy digital versions of games from the Nintendo eShop, receive the latest news and announcements from Nintendo, or connect with the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app.

Three people playing a game against each other online
Wireless Internet connection

The following are required when connecting online through a wireless connection:

  1. High-speed Internet service
    • A mobile hot spot can be used, but connection may vary depending on signal strength.
  2. Wireless router (wireless access point)
  3. Nintendo Switch console

If this is your preferred connection method, and your network environment is already set up, we can help you connect your Nintendo Switch to a Wi-Fi network.

A Nintendo Switch console connecting wirelessly to a wireless router plugged into a modem Ethernet port connected to the Internet
Wired Internet connection

Important:

  • If you decide to connect online using a wired connection, we also recommend setting up a wireless Internet connection. This enables you to connect online even when your Nintendo Switch is not placed in the Nintendo Switch dock.
  • The Nintendo Switch dock is not compatible with Nintendo Switch Lite.
  • If using a Nintendo Switch dock without a built-in LAN port, a USB LAN adapter is required to establish a wired internet connection.

The following are required when connecting online through a wired connection:

  1. High-speed Internet service
  2. Router
  3. Ethernet cable
  4. USB to Ethernet LAN Adapter
  5. Nintendo Switch console placed in the Nintendo Switch dock

If this is your preferred connection method and your network environment is already set up, we can help you connect your Nintendo Switch to a wired network.

A Nintendo Switch console connected to a router via a USB to Ethernet LAN Adapter plugged into a modem connected to the Internet

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