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How to Install a LAN Adapter to Nintendo Switch

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

In this article, you'll learn how to use a USB LAN adapter with a Nintendo Switch system.

Note: If using a Nintendo Switch dock with a built-in LAN port, a USB LAN adapter is not required to establish a wired internet connection.

Complete these steps

Which system are you using?
  • Nintendo Switch

    Important: The Nintendo Switch console must be placed in the Nintendo Switch dock when using a LAN adapter to connect online.

    1. Insert the LAN adapter into the USB port on the Nintendo Switch dock.
    2. Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the LAN adapter, and connect the other end to a network port on your modem or wired router. A LAN Adapter plugged into the USB port on the Nintendo Switch dock by an Ethernet cable from the modem or router

    Important: Ensure that you have connected the LAN adapter into a LAN port, and not the Internet/WAN port. In most situations, routers will have multiple LAN ports which may be numbered (e.g. four ports labeled 1 through 4).

    When connecting directly to a modem
    1. Remove any other devices that are currently connected to your modem, including any devices connected with a USB cable.
    2. Power cycle your modem by unplugging the power from your modem for 30 seconds, and then plugging the power back in.
  • 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. Place Nintendo Switch Lite on the Dual USB PlayStand (or other licensed accessory), then connect the LAN adapter into an available USB port on the stand.
    2. Connect one end of an Ethernet cable to the LAN adapter, and connect the other end to a network port on your modem or wired router.

    Important: Ensure that you have connected the LAN adapter into a LAN port, and not the Internet/WAN port. In most situations, routers will have multiple LAN ports which may be numbered (e.g. four ports labeled 1 through 4).

    When connecting directly to a modem
    1. Remove any other devices that are currently connected to your modem, including any devices connected with a USB cable.
    2. Power cycle your modem by unplugging the power from your modem for 30 seconds, and then plugging the power back in.

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