So, you want to surf the web on your Nintendo Switch? It’s actually not as complicated as you might think. You won’t find a dedicated Google app on the Switch, but there’s a secret back door that lets you access Google right from your console. Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be Googling to your heart’s content in no time!
How to Go on Google on Switch: Step by Step Tutorial
Before we dive into the steps, let’s talk about what we’re going to do. The Nintendo Switch doesn’t have an official browser app, but we can use the built-in browser meant for logging into Wi-Fi networks to access Google. Here’s how:
Step 1: Open System Settings
Go to the home screen of your Nintendo Switch and select "System Settings."
System Settings is where you can adjust all sorts of preferences for your Switch. We’re going to use it to tweak your internet settings, which is the first step towards accessing Google.
Step 2: Go to Internet Settings
Scroll down and select "Internet," then "Internet Settings."
This is where you manage Wi-Fi networks and internet connections. We need to connect to a network to access the browser.
Step 3: Select Your Wi-Fi Network
Choose your Wi-Fi network from the list and select "Change Settings."
If you’re not already connected to a network, you’ll need to do that first.
Step 4: Find and Select "DNS Settings"
Scroll down to "DNS Settings" and change it from "Automatic" to "Manual."
This is the trick that will let us use the hidden browser. DNS settings typically point your console to the internet, but we’re going to use a specific DNS that redirects us to Google.
Step 5: Enter the Google DNS
For the "Primary DNS," enter "008.008.008.008" and for the "Secondary DNS," enter "008.008.004.004."
These are Google’s public DNS addresses. By entering these, you’re telling your Switch to use Google’s servers to find websites.
Step 6: Save and Connect
Save your settings, and when prompted, select "Connect to This Network."
After tweaking the DNS settings, you’ll need to reconnect to the network to apply the changes.
Once you’ve completed these steps, your Switch will attempt to connect to the network and open a browser window. This is where you would usually log into Wi-Fi, but instead of doing that, you can now enter "Google.com" in the URL bar and browse the web!
Tips for Going on Google on Switch
- Always make sure your Switch is charged or plugged in before browsing; you wouldn’t want it to die mid-search!
- The browser on the Switch isn’t as robust as on a PC or phone, so be patient with loading times.
- Be sure to switch your DNS settings back to "Automatic" when you’re done browsing to ensure other online services on your Switch work properly.
- Remember, not all websites will work perfectly on the Switch’s browser – it’s not designed for heavy web use.
- Use the touchscreen for easier navigation, as the Joy-Con controllers can be a bit clunky for web browsing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I exit the browser?
Simply press the Home button on your Switch to return to the main menu.
Can I watch videos on Google through my Switch?
It’s possible, but the experience isn’t ideal. The Switch’s browser isn’t optimized for video playback, so you might encounter issues.
Will changing DNS settings affect my online gaming?
No, not as long as you switch them back to "Automatic" after browsing.
Can I bookmark pages on the Switch’s browser?
No, the browser doesn’t support bookmarks or browsing history.
Is browsing on the Switch safe?
As safe as browsing on any other device, though remember it’s a more basic browser without advanced security features.
Summary
- Open System Settings
- Go to Internet Settings
- Select Your Wi-Fi Network
- Find and Select "DNS Settings"
- Enter the Google DNS
- Save and Connect
Conclusion
Isn’t it amazing what you can do with a little bit of tech know-how? Accessing Google on your Nintendo Switch might not be an officially supported feature, but with these steps, you can unlock a whole new layer of functionality from your console. Whether you need to do a quick search, check an email, or just want to see if it’s possible, now you have the power to do so.
But remember, the Switch isn’t a replacement for your computer or smartphone when it comes to web browsing. It’s a gaming console first and foremost. So, while this neat trick can come in handy in a pinch, it’s best to keep your expectations in check regarding the browsing experience on the Switch.
So go ahead, give it a try! Who knows what else you might discover your Switch can do? And if you ever get stuck or need a refresher on how to go on Google on Switch, you know where to find the info. Happy browsing, fellow gamers!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.