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Error Message: You Cannot Play Online Battles Right Now

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

The information in this article can help you when you're attempting to join an online battle in Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and an error message is displayed: "You Cannot Play Online Battles Right Now."

Note
  • This error indicates your network connection was unable to continuously send or receive data.
  • This error may occur if your Internet connection is slow, or if your network connection is unstable to due wireless interference or unresponsive networking equipment.
  • Some games require you to send and receive more data than others, so even if you do not experience errors with other titles, this error is still likely the result of your network connection.

Possible solutions

  • Restart the console.
  • Power cycle your home network.
    • 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.

  • Move the console within 10 to 15 feet of the wireless router to improve the signal strength during troubleshooting.
    • If you haven't already, it may be helpful to remove the console from the dock while troubleshooting, and then return the console when troubleshooting is complete.
  • Move any metal objects or electronic devices away from your Nintendo Switch 2 or Nintendo Switch console and wireless router. This includes filing cabinets, speakers, power strips, glass, or cordless phones that may interfere with wireless signals.
  • Connect to a different wireless band if your router supports both the 2.4Ghz and 5Ghz frequency bands.

Situation not resolved

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

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