A Nintendo Switch can connect to a phone’s hotspot like any Wi-Fi network, but a few settings on the phone often stop it from working: the hotspot shutting off, 5 GHz-only mode, or data restrictions. This guide covers how to connect a Switch, Switch Lite, Switch OLED or Switch 2 to an iPhone or Android hotspot, and step-by-step fixes when it won’t connect, drops out, or shows errors in online games.
Quick Answer
On your phone, turn on the hotspot and keep its settings screen open. On an iPhone, turn on Maximize Compatibility; on Android, set the band to 2.4 GHz or 2.4 and 5 GHz. On the Switch, go to System Settings > Internet > Internet Settings, pick the hotspot, and enter the password.
How to Connect a Switch to a Hotspot
- iPhone: go to Settings > Personal Hotspot and turn on Allow Others to Join. Android: go to Settings > Network & internet > Hotspot & tethering > Wi-Fi hotspot (names vary by brand) and turn it on.
- Note the hotspot name and password.
- On the Switch, open System Settings > Internet > Internet Settings.
- Select your hotspot from the list and enter the password.
- Wait for Connection successful, then select OK.
Fixes When the Switch Can’t Find or Join the Hotspot
- Keep the hotspot screen open: iPhones only advertise the hotspot while the Personal Hotspot screen is open or recently used. Open it again while the Switch searches.
- Use 2.4 GHz: turn on Maximize Compatibility on iPhone, or choose a 2.4 GHz band on Android. Some phones default to 5 GHz or 6 GHz only.
- Simplify the name and password: use letters and numbers only, and a password of at least 8 characters.
- Check security type: on Android, choose WPA2-Personal or WPA2/WPA3 transition mode rather than WPA3 only.
- Forget and reconnect: on the Switch, select the saved hotspot, choose Delete Settings, and join again.
- Restart both devices: fully restart the Switch (hold Power > Power Options > Restart) and the phone.
- Turn off Low Power or Data Saver: these modes can pause the hotspot.
Fixes When It Connects but Games Won’t Go Online
- Check your plan: some carriers limit hotspot data or block tethering after a cap.
- Run a connection test: System Settings > Internet > Test Connection. A NAT type of D or F can cause matchmaking errors on mobile networks. Moving to a spot with better signal sometimes helps, but carrier NAT is often out of your control.
- Change DNS: in the hotspot’s settings on the Switch, choose Change Settings > DNS Settings > Manual, and try a public DNS service.
- Reduce distance: keep the phone within a few feet of the Switch.
- Stop other devices from using the hotspot while you play.
- Update the system: System Settings > System > System Update.
How Much Data Does Online Play Use?
Online matches in most games use relatively little data, often well under 100 MB per hour, but downloading a game or update can use several gigabytes. Download updates on home Wi-Fi when possible, and turn off automatic software updates in System Settings > System if you rely on the hotspot.
Common Error Codes
| Error | Likely cause | Try |
|---|---|---|
| 2110-2003 | Hotspot not found or signal lost | Keep the phone close, reopen the hotspot screen |
| 2110-3127 | DNS or internet problem on the hotspot | Restart the hotspot, change DNS |
| 2618-0513 or 2618-0516 | NAT restrictions on mobile networks | Test connection, try a different location or network |
Error meanings can vary; check Nintendo’s support site for the latest details on a specific code.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Switch Lite support hotspots?
Yes. Every Switch model can join a phone hotspot.
Can I use a laptop as a hotspot instead?
Yes. Windows can share its connection through Settings > Network & internet > Mobile hotspot.
Why does the connection drop when the Switch sleeps?
The phone may turn off its hotspot when no device is connected. Reopen the hotspot settings when you wake the Switch.
Summary
- Turn on the hotspot and keep its screen open.
- Use 2.4 GHz (Maximize Compatibility on iPhone).
- Join from System Settings > Internet on the Switch.
- Test the connection, change DNS and check your data plan if games won’t go online.
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.