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Issues with Latency While Playing Online (e.g. Characters Jump Around, Slow Response, Lag)

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

The information in this article can help you when:

  • You are experiencing issues while playing online with others, such as characters jumping around or slow response from controls.
  • You are able to start online matches, but experience a high amount of disconnects after periods of slow response/latency.
Note
  • Latency issues can occur if the time to send and receive data over a network is too long.
  • Latency is usually the result of slow Internet speeds, a weak wireless signal, a large amount of wireless interference, or slow response times from network devices.

Before you start

You will need:

  • Your Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console
  • An Internet connection

What to do

  1. Perform a connection test on the Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch.
    • How to test your Internet connection
      1. Select the System Settings icon from the HOME Menu.
      2. Scroll down through the System Settings menu and select Internet.
      3. Select Test Connection. The test will begin immediately. A message will appear stating if the test was successful with the results listed below.
        • Connection Name

          The name you have given the Internet connection, within the connection settings. If you have not named the connection, it will be displayed.

        • SSID

          The SSID of the wireless network you are connecting to.

        • Internet Connection

          The result of an Internet connectivity test. If Success is displayed, it indicates the console was able to connect with Nintendo's services.

        • Global IP Address

          The global IP address of the network you are using.

        • NAT Type

          The results of a NAT test for the network you are connecting to. This will range from A (best for peer-to-peer communication) to F (unable to complete peer-to-peer communication).

        • Download Speed

          The speed at which data was sent to you over the network you are connecting to.

        • Upload Speed

          The speed at which data was sent from you over the network you are connecting to.

      For more information, see How to Use the Internet Connection Test.

  2. Take note of the following results:
    • Download speed
    • Upload speed
  3. Compare your speeds against the following speed requirements:
    • 3 Mbps download
    • 1 Mbps upload
  1. Do you meet the required download and upload speeds?
  2. Are you using a wired or wireless connection?

    Using a PC that is connected to the same network, check your network's download speeds by performing the following process:

    1. Visit one of the following sites (or find your own by searching "internet speed test" using a search engine):
    2. Follow the onscreen instructions to run the speedtest, and take note of the results.
    Does your network meet the speeds requirements?
    1. Power cycle your home network.

      Restarting your network devices may resolve this issue if it is related to the devices being unresponsive.

      • How to power cycle your home network
        1. Unplug the power cable from both the modem and wireless router (if separate from the modem).
        2. If the modem's lights remain on, this may indicate you have a back-up battery installed. You will need to remove this battery to power cycle the modem.
        3. After 30 seconds, plug the power cable back into your modem and wait for the lights to remain steady.
        4. Plug the power cable back into the router and wait for the router lights to remain steady.

        For more information, see How to Power Cycle a Home Network.

    2. Attempt to connect directly to your modem.

      Connecting directly to a modem, instead of the router, will bypass other networking devices and determine if these are resulting in the issue. After connecting directly to a modem, make sure you restart the device by removing the power cable for a minute.

      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch 2

        Important: The Nintendo Switch 2 console must be docked to be able to connect online using the wired connection type.

        1. Connect an Ethernet cable to the Nintendo Switch 2 dock and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway.
        2. Place the Nintendo Switch 2 console into the dock.
        3. On the console, select System Settings on the HOME Menu. The System Settings icon highlighted on the HOME Menu on Nintendo Switch 2
        4. Select Internet, and then Internet SettingsConfiguración de internetParamètres InternetConfigurações de internet. Your console will automatically search for nearby wireless network signals first. Internet page highlighted in the System Settings on Nintendo Switch 2
        5. Once the option is available, select Wired ConnectionConexión con cableConnexion par câbleConexão por cabo.
        6. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        7. The connection will be tested. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • We also recommend setting up a wireless internet connection. This enables you to connect online even when your Nintendo Switch 2 is not placed in the dock.
      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch – OLED Model

        Important: The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model console must be used in TV mode to connect online using the wired connection type.

        1. Connect an Ethernet cable to the Nintendo Switch dock with LAN port and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway. Ethernet/LAN cable connecting a router to the built-in LAN port of the Nintendo Switch dock model HEG-007.
        2. Place the Nintendo Switch console into the Nintendo Switch dock. A Nintendo Switch – OLED Model placed in dock with LAN port while connected to a wall outlet and television.
        3. On the Nintendo Switch console, select System Settings on the HOME Menu. System Settings option highlighted on the HOME Menu Screen.
        4. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch.. Nintendo Switch will automatically search for nearby Wi-Fi signals.
        5. Once the option is available, select Wired Connection.
        6. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        7. Nintendo Switch will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • If possible, 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.

        For more information, please see How to Connect to the Internet Using a Wired Connection.

      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch

        Important: The Nintendo Switch console must be used in TV mode to connect online using the wired connection type.

        1. Connect a wired LAN Adapter to the Nintendo Switch dock.
        2. Connect an Ethernet cable to the LAN adapter and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway. A LAN Adapter plugged into the USB port on the Nintendo Switch dock by an Ethernet cable from the modem or router.
        3. Place the Nintendo Switch console into the Nintendo Switch dock. A Nintendo Switch console inserted a Nintendo Switch dock that is plugged into a wall outlet and television.
        4. On the Nintendo Switch console, select System Settings on the HOME Menu. System Settings option highlighted on the HOME Menu Screen.
        5. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch.. Nintendo Switch will automatically search for nearby Wi-Fi signals.
        6. Once the option is available, select Wired Connection.
        7. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        8. Nintendo Switch will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • If possible, 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.
      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch Lite

        Important: A USB LAN Adapter can be connected to Nintendo Switch Lite using a licensed accessory, such as the Dual USB PlayStand for Nintendo Switch Lite from HORI.

        1. Set up the Dual USB PlayStand for Nintendo Switch Lite (or other compatible, licensed accessory), then connect to it a wired LAN Adapter.
          • For any questions about licensed accessories, contact the manufacturer for assistance.
        2. Connect an Ethernet cable to the LAN adapter and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway.
        3. Place the Nintendo Switch Lite on the Dual USB PlayStand.
        4. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings. Nintendo Switch Lite will automatically search for nearby Wi-Fi signals. Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch.
        5. Once the option is available, select Wired Connection.
        6. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        7. Nintendo Switch Lite will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • If possible, we also recommend setting up a wireless Internet connection.
    3. Try a different Ethernet cable.

      If a second Ethernet cable works, this may indicate the Ethernet cable originally used is damaged or no longer working.

    Did this resolve your issue?
    1. Create a new Internet connection

      Set up a new Internet connection, ensuring that you are attempting to connect to the correct network, and that you are receiving a strong wireless signal from the network.

      • How to connect Nintendo Switch 2 to a wireless home network
        1. Place the Nintendo Switch 2 console within 10 feet of the wireless router so there will be a strong wireless signal.
        2. Select System Settings from the HOME Menu. The System Settings icon highlighted on the HOME Menu on Nintendo Switch 2
        3. Select Internet, and then Internet SettingsConfiguración de internetParamètres InternetConfigurações de internet. Your console will automatically search for nearby wireless network signals. Internet page highlighted in the System Settings on Nintendo Switch 2
        4. Select the appropriate network name (SSID) from the list.
        5. Use the onscreen keyboard to enter the network's wireless password, if one is required. Entering wireless network password using on-screen keyboard in the System Settings on Nintendo Switch 2
        6. The connection will be tested. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear. Search for our support article on the error code for steps to troubleshoot the connection.

        For more details, please see How to Connect to the Internet on Nintendo Switch 2

      • How to connect Nintendo Switch to a wireless home network
        1. Place the Nintendo Switch console within 10 feet of the wireless router to ensure a strong wireless signal.
        2. Select Settings from the HOME Menu System Settings icon highlighted on the HOME Menu Screen on the Nintendo Switch console.
        3. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Switch will automatically search for near-by Wi-Fi signals.
        4. Select the appropriate network name (SSID) from the list.
        5. If prompted, use the onscreen keyboard to enter the network's wireless password Onscreen keyboard displayed when a network's wireless password is required.
        6. The Nintendo Switch will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK to complete the process.

        For more information, see How to Connect to the Internet Using a Wireless Network.

    2. Move the console closer to the wireless router.

      If possible, place the console within 10 to 15 feet of the wireless router to improve the signal strength during troubleshooting.

      • It may be helpful to remove the console from the dock while troubleshooting, and then return the console when troubleshooting is complete.
    3. Move any metal objects or electronic devices away from your console and wireless router.

      Metal objects and electronic devices, such as filing cabinets, speakers, power strips, glass, or cordless phones, may interfere with wireless signals. If you have any of these next to your system or wireless router, move them away.

    4. Power cycle your home network.

      Restarting your network devices may resolve this issue if it is related to the devices being unresponsive.

      • How to power cycle your home network
        1. Unplug the power cable from both the modem and wireless router (if separate from the modem).
        2. If the modem's lights remain on, this may indicate you have a back-up battery installed. You will need to remove this battery to power cycle the modem.
        3. After 30 seconds, plug the power cable back into your modem and wait for the lights to remain steady.
        4. Plug the power cable back into the router and wait for the router lights to remain steady.

        For more information, see How to Power Cycle a Home Network.

    Did this resolve your issue?
    Are you using a wired or wireless connection?

    Ensure no other users or applications are utilizing bandwidth on your network.

    Devices streaming video content, downloading files, or performing other bandwidth intensive tasks may affect the speeds at which other devices can send and receive data over the Internet. Turn off any devices or programs you may find running, and then try the speed test again.

    If your test results now meet the recommended speeds, select Network speed requirements met above. Otherwise, see below.

    Did this resolve your issue?

  4. If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out nintendo.com for all the latest news.

    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 the console, please contact us for support.

    If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out nintendo.com for all the latest news.

    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 the console, please contact us for support.

    1. Power cycle your home network.

      Restarting your network devices may resolve this issue if it is related to the devices being unresponsive.

      • How to power cycle your home network
        1. Unplug the power cable from both the modem and wireless router (if separate from the modem).
        2. If the modem's lights remain on, this may indicate you have a back-up battery installed. You will need to remove this battery to power cycle the modem.
        3. After 30 seconds, plug the power cable back into your modem and wait for the lights to remain steady.
        4. Plug the power cable back into the router and wait for the router lights to remain steady.

        For more information, see How to Power Cycle a Home Network.

    2. Attempt to connect directly to your modem.

      Connecting directly to a modem, instead of the router, will bypass other networking devices and determine if these are resulting in the issue. After connecting directly to a modem, make sure you restart the device by removing the power cable for a minute.

      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch 2

        Important: The Nintendo Switch 2 console must be docked to be able to connect online using the wired connection type.

        1. Connect an Ethernet cable to the Nintendo Switch 2 dock and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway.
        2. Place the Nintendo Switch 2 console into the dock.
        3. On the console, select System Settings on the HOME Menu. The System Settings icon highlighted on the HOME Menu on Nintendo Switch 2
        4. Select Internet, and then Internet SettingsConfiguración de internetParamètres InternetConfigurações de internet. Your console will automatically search for nearby wireless network signals first. Internet page highlighted in the System Settings on Nintendo Switch 2
        5. Once the option is available, select Wired ConnectionConexión con cableConnexion par câbleConexão por cabo.
        6. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        7. The connection will be tested. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • We also recommend setting up a wireless internet connection. This enables you to connect online even when your Nintendo Switch 2 is not placed in the dock.
      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch – OLED Model

        Important: The Nintendo Switch – OLED Model console must be used in TV mode to connect online using the wired connection type.

        1. Connect an Ethernet cable to the Nintendo Switch dock with LAN port and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway. Ethernet/LAN cable connecting a router to the built-in LAN port of the Nintendo Switch dock model HEG-007.
        2. Place the Nintendo Switch console into the Nintendo Switch dock. A Nintendo Switch – OLED Model placed in dock with LAN port while connected to a wall outlet and television.
        3. On the Nintendo Switch console, select System Settings on the HOME Menu. System Settings option highlighted on the HOME Menu Screen.
        4. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch.. Nintendo Switch will automatically search for nearby Wi-Fi signals.
        5. Once the option is available, select Wired Connection.
        6. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        7. Nintendo Switch will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • If possible, 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.

        For more information, please see How to Connect to the Internet Using a Wired Connection.

      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch

        Important: The Nintendo Switch console must be used in TV mode to connect online using the wired connection type.

        1. Connect a wired LAN Adapter to the Nintendo Switch dock.
        2. Connect an Ethernet cable to the LAN adapter and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway. A LAN Adapter plugged into the USB port on the Nintendo Switch dock by an Ethernet cable from the modem or router.
        3. Place the Nintendo Switch console into the Nintendo Switch dock. A Nintendo Switch console inserted a Nintendo Switch dock that is plugged into a wall outlet and television.
        4. On the Nintendo Switch console, select System Settings on the HOME Menu. System Settings option highlighted on the HOME Menu Screen.
        5. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch.. Nintendo Switch will automatically search for nearby Wi-Fi signals.
        6. Once the option is available, select Wired Connection.
        7. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        8. Nintendo Switch will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • If possible, 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.
      • How to create a wired Internet connection on Nintendo Switch Lite

        Important: A USB LAN Adapter can be connected to Nintendo Switch Lite using a licensed accessory, such as the Dual USB PlayStand for Nintendo Switch Lite from HORI.

        1. Set up the Dual USB PlayStand for Nintendo Switch Lite (or other compatible, licensed accessory), then connect to it a wired LAN Adapter.
          • For any questions about licensed accessories, contact the manufacturer for assistance.
        2. Connect an Ethernet cable to the LAN adapter and then connect the other end of the Ethernet cable to your router or gateway.
        3. Place the Nintendo Switch Lite on the Dual USB PlayStand.
        4. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings. Nintendo Switch Lite will automatically search for nearby Wi-Fi signals. Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch.
        5. Once the option is available, select Wired Connection.
        6. Select Connect to the Internet via Wired Connection.
        7. Nintendo Switch Lite will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear, which can help you troubleshoot connection errors.
          • If possible, we also recommend setting up a wireless Internet connection.
    3. Try a different Ethernet cable.

      If a second Ethernet cable works, this may indicate the Ethernet cable originally used is damaged or no longer working.

    Did this resolve your issue?
    1. Create a new Internet connection

      Set up a new Internet connection, ensuring that you are attempting to connect to the correct network, and that you are receiving a strong wireless signal from the network.

      • How to connect Nintendo Switch 2 to a wireless home network
        1. Place the Nintendo Switch 2 console within 10 feet of the wireless router so there will be a strong wireless signal.
        2. Select System Settings from the HOME Menu. The System Settings icon highlighted on the HOME Menu on Nintendo Switch 2
        3. Select Internet, and then Internet SettingsConfiguración de internetParamètres InternetConfigurações de internet. Your console will automatically search for nearby wireless network signals. Internet page highlighted in the System Settings on Nintendo Switch 2
        4. Select the appropriate network name (SSID) from the list.
        5. Use the onscreen keyboard to enter the network's wireless password, if one is required. Entering wireless network password using on-screen keyboard in the System Settings on Nintendo Switch 2
        6. The connection will be tested. Once the test is complete, select OK.
          • If the connection test fails, an error code and message will appear. Search for our support article on the error code for steps to troubleshoot the connection.

        For more details, please see How to Connect to the Internet on Nintendo Switch 2

      • How to connect Nintendo Switch to a wireless home network
        1. Place the Nintendo Switch console within 10 feet of the wireless router to ensure a strong wireless signal.
        2. Select Settings from the HOME Menu System Settings icon highlighted on the HOME Menu Screen on the Nintendo Switch console.
        3. Select Internet, and then Internet Settings Internet is selected on the System Settings menu on the Nintendo Switch. The Nintendo Switch will automatically search for near-by Wi-Fi signals.
        4. Select the appropriate network name (SSID) from the list.
        5. If prompted, use the onscreen keyboard to enter the network's wireless password Onscreen keyboard displayed when a network's wireless password is required.
        6. The Nintendo Switch will test the Internet connection. Once the test is complete, select OK to complete the process.

        For more information, see How to Connect to the Internet Using a Wireless Network.

    2. Move the console closer to the wireless router.

      If possible, place the console within 10 to 15 feet of the wireless router to improve the signal strength during troubleshooting.

      • It may be helpful to remove the console from the dock while troubleshooting, and then return the console when troubleshooting is complete.
    3. Move any metal objects or electronic devices away from your console and wireless router.

      Metal objects and electronic devices may interfere with wireless signals. If you have any of these, such as filing cabinets, speakers, power strips, glass, or cordless phones, next to your system or wireless router, move them away.

    4. Power cycle your home network.

      Restarting your network devices may resolve this issue if it is related to the devices being unresponsive.

      • How to power cycle your home network
        1. Unplug the power cable from both the modem and wireless router (if separate from the modem).
        2. If the modem's lights remain on, this may indicate you have a back-up battery installed. You will need to remove this battery to power cycle the modem.
        3. After 30 seconds, plug the power cable back into your modem and wait for the lights to remain steady.
        4. Plug the power cable back into the router and wait for the router lights to remain steady.

        For more information, see How to Power Cycle a Home Network.

    Did this resolve your issue?

    If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out nintendo.com for all the latest news.

    If you continue to receive download speeds less than recommended, please contact your network administrator or Internet Service Provider for further assistance.

    If the results received are expected with your service, you may need to upgrade your service for a better experience, or, if the results are not typical, the service provider can likely assist in troubleshooting your Internet service.

  5. If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out nintendo.com for all the latest news.

    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 the console, please contact us for support.

    If this information resolved your issue, then you’re all set! For information about Nintendo’s products, be sure to check out nintendo.com for all the latest news.

    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 the console, please contact us for support.

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