Nintendo Switch is offline: what to do
The Switch was online before but now shows 'No internet connection' or online features do not work.
We could not fully consult the manufacturer's support page for this model; the steps are general and may differ in details.
Most likely causes
Temporary router or internet outage
- Check whether other devices at home still have internet.
- Restart your router by unplugging it for 10 seconds and plugging it back in.
- Wait a few minutes and try reconnecting on the Switch via System Settings > Internet.
IP or network conflict
- Toggle airplane mode briefly on the Switch: System Settings > Airplane Mode and switch it on then off.
- Forget the wifi network on the Switch (System Settings > Internet > Internet Settings > select network > Forget) and reconnect.
- Restart the Switch by holding the power button for 3 seconds, choose Power Options > Turn Off, then turn it on again.
System update or Nintendo service outage
- Check for a system update on the HOME screen and install it.
- Check Nintendo's network status on another device to see if services are down.
- Wait and try again later if it is a temporary service issue.
Factory reset
Warning: a factory reset deletes all console data, saved games and user accounts unless you have cloud backups.
- Sign in to your Nintendo Account and back up saves to the cloud where available.
- Go to System Settings > System > Initialize > Initialize Console.
- Confirm that you want to initialize and follow the on-screen steps until the console restarts.
- After reset, sign in again with your Nintendo Account and restore any backups.
Frequently asked
Why won't my Switch connect to my phone hotspot?
Some mobile carriers or hotspot settings block certain devices; try using the 2.4 GHz band if available and check for any hotspot restrictions.
Will I lose my saved games with a factory reset?
Yes, local saves are removed unless you have cloud backups via your Nintendo Account or other backups.
How can I tell if the wifi signal is too weak?
If other devices nearby work well but the Switch shows low signal in System Settings > Internet, the signal is likely too weak.
Can I reset only the network settings on my Switch?
Yes, you can forget the wifi network and reconnect without performing a full factory reset.
Other problems with this device
Switch won't connect to wifiSwitch resetFirst-time setup
Updated 2026-09-09 · plugfix.vercel.app