How to Access the Hidden Nintendo Switch Browser

A workaround that actually works

By
Fionna Agomuoh
Fionna Agomuoh
Fionna Agomuoh
Writer
  • University at Buffalo
Fionna Agomuoh is a former freelance contributor to Lifewire. Her writing has appeared in Newsweek, International Business Times, and others.
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Updated on April 23, 2022
Reviewed by
Jessica Kormos
Jessica Kormos
Reviewed by Jessica Kormos
  • Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College
Jessica Kormos is a writer and editor with 15 years' experience writing articles, copy, and UX content for Tecca.com, Rosenfeld Media, and many others.
lifewire's editorial guidelines

What to Know

  • Select System Settings on the Switch dashboard and choose Internet > Internet Settings.
  • Choose your current Wi-Fi connection and then select Change Settings.
  • Change DNS settings to Manual and change the Primary DNS setting to 045.055.142.122.

This article explains how to access the NetFront Browser NX on Nintendo Switch and the Switch Lite. Its main purpose is to connect your console to Wi-Fi hotspots.

How to Access the Nintendo Switch Web Browser

The Switch's secret web browser is simple. It's not the best mobile browsing experience; a smartphone gets the job done much better. However if you want to check it out, follow the instructions below:

  1. Select System Settings from the Nintendo Switch dashboard.

    The System Settings icon

  2. Select Internet > Internet Settings.

    You can find your Internet settings under the Internet section of the Switch's system settings

  3. Select your current Wi-Fi connection to access its information page, then select Change Settings.

    You need to change your network settings to access the Switch's hidden browser

  4. Scroll down and select DNS Settings.

  5. Change the DNS settings from Automatic to Manual.

    The Manual setting

  6. Set the Primary DNS to 045.055.142.122.

    Change your Primary DNS to access the Switch's web browser

  7. Select Save to connect to the SwitchBru DNS page. Wait roughly eight seconds to be redirected to Google.

    If nothing happens after eight seconds, select News from the Switch dashboard, then select Find Channels.

    The Save button

Why This Nintendo Switch Browser Workaround Works

Using this method sets up a DNS proxy that tricks your Nintendo Switch into thinking it needs a public Wi-Fi access point to connect to the internet. The SwitchBru DNS serves as that proxy, allowing you to bypass login information to access public Wi-Fi.

Even though the browser works, not all web pages may load as normal. Pages with videos may not load and some may display a "page cannot be displayed" error. The most reliable thing to do with this web browser is to access Google search.

How to Disconnect From the Switch Internet Browser

When you're done using the Switch's browser, press the Back button on your Nintendo Switch until you reach the DNS Settings page. From there, change the DNS setting from Manual to Automatic.

FAQ
  • How do I watch videos in the Nintendo Switch browser?

    Most videos won't play in the Switch browser, but there are alternatives. For example, you can watch YouTube on Switch with the official YouTube app. Some streaming services like Hulu also have apps for Switch.

  • How do I connect my Nintendo Switch to Wi-Fi?

    To connect your Nintendo Switch to a Wi-Fi network, go to Settings > Internet > Internet Settings. The Switch will automatically search for networks. Choose your network and enter the password.

  • Why can't my Nintendo Switch connect to the internet?

    If your Switch can't connect to Wi-Fi, restart your console and move it closer to your router if possible. If you're having problems with your whole network, restart your modem and router and check your firewall settings. If Nintendo Switch Online is down, all you can do is wait.

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