To speed up download on Nintendo Switch, change your DNS settings to Google's public DNS (8.8.8.8 and 8.8.4.4) and connect to a 5 GHz Wi‑Fi band. These two fixes deliver the most immediate improvement, and the methods below will help you optimize further.
Change your DNS settings to Google or Cloudflare
Changing your DNS server can resolve domain names faster than your ISP’s default, which helps make Nintendo switch games download faster by reducing the time spent looking up download servers. From the HOME Menu, go to System Settings, then Internet, and Internet Settings. Select your current network, choose Change Settings, scroll to DNS Settings, and set it to Manual. Enter Primary DNS as 8.8.8.8 and Secondary DNS as 8.8.4.4 for Google, or use Cloudflare’s public DNS servers for faster internet speed with Primary 1.1.1.1 and Secondary 1.0.0.1. Save the changes and test the connection.
Connect your Switch to a 5 GHz Wi‑Fi band
The 5 GHz band offers higher speeds and less interference than 2.4 GHz. To encourage your Switch to connect to the 5 GHz band, you may need to configure your router to use distinct Wi‑Fi SSIDs for the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Once your router is set, go to System Settings, Internet, and Internet Settings, select the 5 GHz network, and enter its password. Your Switch will now use the faster band, reducing congestion and helping you have faster download speed.
Use a wired Ethernet connection
A wired connection eliminates Wi‑Fi interference and provides a stable link. Check for an Ethernet port on your Switch dock; if your model lacks one, use a licensed adapter. Connect the Ethernet cable from your router to the dock or adapter, then go to System Settings, Internet, and Internet Settings. Select Wired Connection as your preferred network, then restart your console to force the wired link. This method is especially effective if you want to make PlayStation download faster or make games download faster on PC, the same principle applies to your Switch.
Restart your modem, router, and Nintendo Switch
Power‑cycling clears temporary glitches that slow downloads. On your Switch, hold the power button for a few seconds, select Power Options, then Restart. This refreshes network connections and system processes.
Move your Switch closer to the router and remove obstacles
Distance and physical barriers weaken Wi‑Fi signals. Place your Switch in the same room as your router, away from walls, furniture, and appliances like microwaves or cordless phones. If your router has adjustable antennas, experiment with their angles. When moving the console isn’t possible, use a Wi‑Fi extender or mesh system to improve coverage.
Pause other downloads and close background apps
Multiple concurrent downloads split bandwidth. From the HOME Menu, open System Settings, Data Management, and Download Management. Highlight any active downloads and press the, button to pause them. Then press the X button on the home screen to close any running games or apps. This dedicates full bandwidth to your priority download.
Keep your Nintendo Switch system and games updated
System updates include performance fixes that can improve download speeds. Go to System Settings, System, and System Update to install the latest firmware. For games, open the Nintendo eShop, select your profile, then Redownload. Any available updates will appear, select Download next to each title. Updated software ensures your console runs optimally.
