Last updated on October 29, 2022 by John Adebimitan
Got a new Nintendo Switch? Congratulations !
I know you're already itching to start playing. However, to start playing, you need to configure the console. The good news is that the Switch is ready to go in just a few steps. Nintendo has made installation relatively simple.
So I'm going to tell you everything you need to know to set up a Nintendo Switch!
How to Set Up a Nintendo Switch – Step by Step
In this guide, I'll walk you through the initial setup of your new Nintendo Switch, show you how to enable parental controls, and connect the console to a TV or other display.
Don't be afraid to make mistakes: Almost all settings can be changed again later. You also have the option at any time during setup to go back and undo decisions by pressing the B button.
Step 1: First time installation of Nintendo Switch
Start by unpacking the console from the box provided. Next, plug in the Joy-Con controllers on either side of the main Nintendo Switch.
To do this, slide each Joy-Con controller over the side edges of the Switch, from top to bottom. Make sure they click into place.
You still don't understand? So watch the YouTube video below (1:30 to 2:00) to better understand how to place the Joy-Cons:
By the way, installing the Joy-Cons during the first setup not only makes the console ready to play. It helps the controllers draw juice from the battery and charge, just like how your Apple AirPods charge.
Step 2: Turn on the Nintendo Switch
The Nintendo Switch's power button is located on the upper left edge of the device. After a short press of the button, the white logo and red background of the Nintendo Switch greet you.
Now this is where the initial setup begins!
Step 3: Set the system language
Once you turn on the Nintendo Switch, you need to select the console language. This setting affects the console and also the game titles. As long as the respective game supports the selected system language of the console, the title adapts to the language settings of the Nintendo Switch.
You can change the system language at any time in the settings. This allows users to change the language of games via the console's system language.
Step 4: Select Region
After setting the system language, region selection follows. Unfortunately, the Nintendo Switch does not come with a region lock. It is therefore possible, for the first time, to import physical Nintendo games from other regions of the world and use them with your console.
However, selecting your region affects the digital Nintendo eShop and decides which version of the country-specific online store you can access.
Small intermediate step: Before continuing with the configuration, you will be asked to read and accept the Important Information document and the “License” and “Update and unauthorized use” sections. This document contains information on health and safety, battery use, power supply, and other troubleshooting and setup tips. So I suggest you read it if you have the time.
Step 5: Set up an Internet connection
Nintendo Switch automatically searches for local Wi-Fi connections and lists all nearby networks. After entering the password, the console connects to the router.
Step 6: Determine the time zone
If you select the coordinated world time “UTC+ 00:00 London, Lisbon,” for example, Nintendo Switch will display the current time in the United Kingdom. The console's time will sync with the Internet if the console has ever been connected to a network.
You can turn this off in Settings and turn the clock manually instead. Smart Animal Crossing: New Horizons players, for example, can also use this option to travel through time.
Step 7: Connect Nintendo Switch to a TV.
This step gives its name to the Nintendo Switch. Because this is the opportunity to switch from portable mode to TV mode and continue the configuration on the big screen.
When you're ready, Nintendo Switch uses animated instructions to show you exactly how to remove the Joy-Con controllers.
But you can plug and connect the Nintendo Switch to a TV or TV by unfolding the stand on the back of the console.
Next, connect the included cables to the dock. Otherwise, you can skip this step for now and worry about connecting to the TV later. I will give you a detailed step-by-step procedure to connect your console to TV later.
Also read: How to stream Nintendo Switch without a capture card
Step 8: How to Create a Nintendo Switch Account
Every Nintendo Switch needs a user. Towards the end of the installation, you need to register your first local user account. The system allows a maximum of eight accounts per console.
New players must create a new user account and can customize their name and profile picture. However, this user account is not a Nintendo Account. These are two different accounts.
The account you just created is just a local user account that contains the user's saved data and personal settings. On the other hand, an official Nintendo account allows you to use Nintendo services. These include the Nintendo eShop digital store and Nintendo Switch Online, which works with a paid subscription. After creating a user account, you can link it to a Nintendo Account. Unfortunately, you cannot undo this link.
You can create a Nintendo Account on the official Nintendo website. On Nintendo Switch, you can begin this process and receive instructions by email. A link will take you to the registration form.
You will then receive a five-digit confirmation code, which you can enter on the console to link your new Nintendo Account to the user account. If you already have a Nintendo Account, you'll need to use the regular login details when linking.
If you already own a Nintendo Switch, you can import the existing account from another console. Below are detailed instructions on importing user accounts:
How to move your profile to a new Switch
Tips and Warnings
- If you transfer an account, you will no longer be able to play games purchased from the eShop on your old Switch. Of course, you can download them again on the new Switch.
- The Switch allows a maximum of 7 profiles per console. So make sure you have a maximum of 6 profiles on the new Switch.
- Make sure the internal storage space is still free on the new Switch. The quantity you need depends on the profile to be transferred.
- You must plug in both consoles during transfer and need an active internet connection on both.
Also read: Can you play Wii games on the Switch?
Step 9: Set Age Restriction
In the final step, Nintendo gives you two different options to create a safe gaming environment for children.
You can use the Nintendo Switch parental control application to connect your smartphone to the console.
You can then use the mobile device to set daily gaming duration, set a good night alarm, and check gaming activities in detail, among other things. A Nintendo Account is required to use the app. An age restriction is also possible without application.
Setting a three to eight digit password marks the end of the age restriction and initial setup.
Step 10: Almost Done!
After the initial setup, take a look at the system settings. You can review all decisions made so far and change them if necessary. Further settings and options for using Nintendo Switch can be found in the menu.
It's over ! You have now successfully set up your Nintendo Switch. You can dive into the colorful tiles of game titles via the main menu and explore countless video games.
Also read: Can you play 3DS games on DS?
How to connect a Nintendo Switch to a television?
This is what your dock, Switch, connected power adapter, cables, and TV should look like. The dock transmits the signal to the connected display (TV screen).
The indicator light located on the lower left edge of the dock indicates the status of the hybrid console. The light turns green when the Nintendo Switch is properly connected to the dock and the console is transmitting the signal to the screen. The Nintendo Switch is also turned on and off in the dock using the same power button.
How to set up a Nintendo Switch controller
Wearable mode
- Step 1: In handheld mode, slide the left Joy-Con with the (-) sign at the top to the left edge of the main Switch.
- Step 2: Then slide the right Joy-Con with the (+) sign to the right edge of the main Switch. They should snap into place and pair automatically.
Wireless mode
- Step 1: To use them wirelessly, detach the Joy-Con controllers by holding the release button on the back of each Joy-Con.
- Step 2: Then slide the Joy-Con upwards. You can now use them to control the Switch wirelessly.
Tip: When the Joy-Cons' batteries are low, re-attach them to the Switch.
How to install a Nintendo Switch stand
- Connect the USB plug of the Switch's power adapter to the top terminal on the back of the dock with the “AC Adapter” label.
- Plug the other end of your power adapter into the wall outlet.
- Connect the HDMI cable from your TV to the bottom connector (HDMI-Out).
- Route the two wires through the left slot of the docking station.
- Close the back cover of the Nintendo Switch dock.
- Place the Nintendo Switch in the Nintendo Switch Dock so it can charge.
- If inserted correctly, a green light will flash in the lower left corner of your Nintendo Switch dock.
How to set up a Nintendo Switch OLED
Setting up the Nintendo Switch OLED requires the same procedure as explained previously.
How to connect Switch Lite to Switch
The next Switch that connects to the eShop is then automatically registered as the primary Switch.
This way the home console can still connect to your home Internet to check if everything is going well. You can use the main console for offline travel without any problem.
How to Charge Nintendo Switch Joy-Cons
Your Joy-Cons will charge simply by connecting them to the Switch. Slide them down on the Switch, and they'll draw juice from the main Switch's battery. When detached and used wirelessly, you still need to reconnect them to the Switch so they can recharge when the batteries run low.
You can check the energy level of your Joy-Cons from the Switch. From the Home menu, tap Controllers, and the battery level will display for both controllers.