Switch not connecting to internet or Wi-Fi? Here’s how to fix it

The Nintendo Switch does not require an active internet connection to play most games, especially if you use game cartridges, as the hybrid console is designed to be used on the go. However, you need a Wi-Fi connection when setting up the device, creating a Nintendo Account, downloading games, or playing multiplayer modes. So, although an active internet connection is not essential, it is always good to have it when using the handheld console. Here’s what to do if your Nintendo Switch won’t connect to Wi-Fi or the internet.

Read more: Common Nintendo Switch Problems and How to Fix Them

If your Switch isn’t connecting to the internet, it could be a problem with your Wi-Fi network itself. Check your smartphone or computer to see if they are connected to Wi-Fi and working as expected.

Try restarting your router and device to see if it is back to normal if Wi-Fi is not working. Turn off the Wi-Fi router, turn off the switch, and wait at least 30 seconds before restarting both. Make sure your ISP isn’t dealing with a larger network outage. If so, the only option is to wait for the network provider to fix the problem and get back online.

See more: What to do if your Wi-Fi is not working

Run a network speed test on another device and check if you are getting the speed you are supposed to. Remember that the internet connection may work but be very slow. If you have a dual-band Wi-Fi router, you should upgrade it from 2.4 GHz to 5 GHz if available. The Nintendo Switch supports both, and the faster band can help with any Internet or Wi-Fi connection issues.

You can also see if other people are reporting problems while using the Nintendo Switch Online service by using websites such as istheservicedown.com. Nintendo will also report major service outages on Twitter.

First, make sure you are within network range. You should ideally be in the same room as the Wi-Fi router for the best connection. If Wi-Fi works on other devices, the problem is with the Switch.

Since many use the Nintendo Switch on airplanes with Airplane Mode turned on, make sure you’ve turned off the setting when you want to get back online. Remember that if Airplane Mode is on, it will stay on even when you plug the console into the dock. Go to System Settings > Airplane Mode and disable it.

Check the switch network settings to make sure you are connected to the correct network. Go to System Settings > Internet > Internet Settingsselect the current network and choose Modify the parameters to reset the password or connect to another network. Select Clear Settings to delete the saved network information and start over.

A software glitch can cause connectivity issues, so don’t forget to update your Switch. Go to System Settings > System and select System update to get the latest software. Cached files can also be a problem. Go to System Settings > System > Formatting Options > Clear Cache. It will erase saved accounts, passwords, cookies, history, and cached website data, but you won’t lose downloaded games and game save data.

Once you have followed all the troubleshooting steps, reboot the switch. To access the connection status, go to System Settings > Internet > Test Connection. If you don’t see any Connection test successful message, note the error codes and contact customer service for assistance.

Read more: Nintendo Switch not turning on? Here’s what to do