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Message: "The backup save data was created separately from the save data on this console."

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

Steps for when the message "The backup save data was created separately from the save data on this console" is displayed while trying to download a save data backup from the cloud to a Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console.

Information

This issue may occur if, after backing up your save data from one console to the cloud, you then played on another console without first downloading the save data backup stored to the cloud.

What to do

Perform one of the following:

Keep in mind that, once save data is overwritten, it cannot be recovered. In the future, if after playing a game on one console, you intend to play on a different console, ensure you download the latest save data backup prior to starting your game on the second console.

Additional information

  • If you have both a Nintendo Switch 2 console and a Nintendo Switch console, your save data for your Nintendo Switch games, including Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games, can be backed up and downloaded between both consoles.
    • Note that you will be able to access your backed up save data for Nintendo Switch 2 Edition games on your Nintendo Switch, but the enhanced features and content of a Nintendo Switch 2 Edition game can only be played on Nintendo Switch 2.
  • If you intend to play your games on multiple consoles, it is a good idea to verify that the automatic save data backup setting is enabled for each user on your Nintendo Switch 2 and/or Nintendo Switch consoles, and that the consoles are connected to the Internet.
    • 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.

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