Nintendo Support

Requirements to Connect Nintendo Switch to the Internet

Nintendo Switch can connect online with a wireless connection or, when through use of a LAN adapter, a wired connection. Connecting online will allow you to play with other players around the world, buy digital versions of games from the Nintendo eShop, receive the latest news and announcements from Nintendo, or connect with the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app.

Wireless Internet connection

The following are required when connecting online through a wireless connection:

  1. High-speed Internet service

  2. Wireless router (wireless access point)

  3. Nintendo Switch console

If this is your preferred connection method, and your network environment is already set up, we can help you connect your Nintendo Switch to a Wi-Fi network.

Wired Internet connection

Important:

  • If you decide to connect online using a wired connection, 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.

  • The Nintendo Switch dock is not compatible with Nintendo Switch Lite.

  • A USB LAN Adapter is required to set up a Wired Internet connection when using a Nintendo Switch dock without a LAN port. *

The following are required when connecting online through a wired connection:

  1. High-speed Internet service.

  2. Router.

  3. Ethernet cable.

  4. USB to Ethernet LAN Adapter. *

  5. Nintendo Switch console placed in the Nintendo Switch dock.

If this is your preferred connection method and your network environment is already set up, we can help you connect your Nintendo Switch to a wired network.