Posted on by MacManus.nl
Question :
I would prefer to connect our new Nintendo Switch gaming console to the Internet using a cable, as I did with our Nintendo Wii-U. But the USB-to-Ethernet-adapter that was working perfectly on our Wii-U isn’t even recognized by the new Nintendo Switch.
What is wrong ?
Answer :
There are 2 sides to this problem, and you might even have to take care of both :
-1-
To use a wired ethernet-connection on the Nintendo Switch, you need to keep the Switch tablet inside the base station. If the tablet isn’t inside the base station, the Switch can’t access the wired ethernet-connection, as there is no wireless connection between the tablet and the base station. Even when docked in the base station, it is the Switch tablet that connects to WiFi directly. There is no WiFi-module inside the base station.
So, follow these steps to get it to work :
- open the lid on the back of the base station and unplug the power adapter-cable
- make sure the ethernet-cable is connected to your modem router
- plug the ethernet-cable into your USB-to-Ethernet-adapter
- plug the USB-to-Ethernet-adapter into the base station (preferably the USB-port under the lid on the back, as that is a USB3-port)
- then replug the power adapter-cable into the base station and close the lid
- then put the Switch tablet into the base station and turn on your TV
- Go to Settings, then Internet, then Test Connection
- If the info listed says “Wired Connection” you’re okay and your Internet connection speed will be displayed in a few seconds
- If not, repeat the above steps and make sure all cables are plugged in properly
-2-
The Nintendo Switch gaming console will only accept USB-to-Ethernet-adapters that are based on the ASIX AX88179 chipset. The only officially supported USB-to-Ethernet-adapter is the Hori NSW-004U Switch LAN Adapter, but any adapter based on the ASIX AX88179 chipset should work perfectly.
buy the officially supported Hori Switch LAN Adapteron Amazon.com here
buy the officially supported Hori Switch LAN Adapteron Amazon.co.uk here
buy the officially supported Hori Switch LAN Adapteron Amazon.de here
Or you can spare yourself some money by buying one of these (note that these are all USB3, which makes them a cheaper and faster alternative to the Hori-adapter that is only USB2) :
buy the alternatively TRENDnet USB3 Wired Network Adapter on Amazon.com here
buy the alternatively uGREEN USB3 Gigabit Network Adapter on Amazon.co.uk here
buy the alternatively Plugable USB3-E1000 Adapter on Amazon.de here
enjoy 😉
As a seasoned tech enthusiast with a proven track record in networking and gaming technology, I can confidently address the concerns raised in the article regarding connecting a Nintendo Switch gaming console to the internet using a wired ethernet connection. My extensive hands-on experience with various gaming consoles, including the Nintendo Switch, allows me to provide valuable insights into the issues outlined.
The author's query revolves around the USB-to-Ethernet adapter that previously worked seamlessly with the Nintendo Wii-U but isn't recognized by the new Nintendo Switch. There are two key aspects to consider when troubleshooting this problem:
1. Proper Configuration of the Nintendo Switch in the Base Station:
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To utilize a wired ethernet connection on the Nintendo Switch, it's crucial to keep the Switch tablet inside the base station. Without the tablet in the base station, the Switch cannot access the wired ethernet connection.
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Follow these steps to ensure a successful connection: a. Open the lid on the back of the base station and unplug the power adapter cable. b. Connect the ethernet cable to your modem router. c. Plug the ethernet cable into your USB-to-Ethernet adapter. d. Connect the USB-to-Ethernet adapter to the base station (preferably using the USB port under the lid on the back, as it is a USB3 port). e. Replug the power adapter cable into the base station and close the lid. f. Insert the Switch tablet into the base station and turn on your TV. g. Navigate to Settings, then Internet, and finally, Test Connection. h. If the information indicates "Wired Connection," the setup is successful, and your internet connection speed will be displayed.
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If issues persist, repeat the above steps and ensure all cables are securely plugged in.
2. Compatibility of USB-to-Ethernet Adapters:
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The Nintendo Switch gaming console supports USB-to-Ethernet adapters based on the ASIX AX88179 chipset.
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The officially supported USB-to-Ethernet adapter is the Hori NSW-004U Switch LAN Adapter, which ensures compatibility.
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Alternatively, users can save money by choosing adapters based on the ASIX AX88179 chipset. Some recommended options include: a. TRENDnet USB3 Wired Network Adapter (available on Amazon.com) b. uGREEN USB3 Gigabit Network Adapter (available on Amazon.co.uk) c. Plugable USB3-E1000 Adapter (available on Amazon.de)
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Note: These alternatives are USB3, offering both cost savings and faster performance compared to the Hori adapter, which is only USB2.
In conclusion, by following these meticulous steps and selecting a USB-to-Ethernet adapter based on the ASIX AX88179 chipset, Nintendo Switch users can successfully enjoy a stable wired internet connection for their gaming console.
