How to Change NAT Type on Nintendo Switch
Are you facing connectivity issues while playing online games on your Nintendo Switch? This problem is common considering the real reason might be related to NAT-type.
If this is a new thing for you and you don’t know how to solve it. We suggest you keep reading this guide! But first, you have to learn about the basics of NAT types that vary depending on the gaming console you have.
NAT Types on Nintendo Switch
If you have a Nintendo Switch, you will have 5 NAT Types, which also depend on your ISP and network setup.
NAT TYPE A
NAT Type A is like a status or a message that shows your Nintendo Switch unit can communicate only freely.
NAT Type B
NAT Type B indicates that the Nintendo Switch unit can communicate online but with minor limitations.
NAT Type C
This status highlights that your Nintendo Switch unit is subjected to moderate restrictions/limitations for online communications.
NAT Type D
NAT Type D is a signal that your Nintendo Switch unit is experiencing moderate restrictions, which can only communicate with other Switch units with NAT Type A.
NAT Type F
This type of NAT status indicates that your Nintendo Switch unit is unable to communicate with other devices and cannot play with other users online. This can be resolved by changing the router’s configuration with port forwarding or a VPN!
Why aim for NAT Type A on Nintendo Switch?
Nintendo Switch is used by 100 million active users around the globe, and most of them use it for offline gameplay. For such cases, the NAT types don’t matter, however, in case you want to play online games, it is best to opt for NAT Type A. This is because NAT type A will readily reduce the chances of connectivity errors while playing online games.
How to Change NAT Type on Nintendo Switch to Type A?
NAT Type A is a recommended choice if you want to make your Nintendo Switch more accessible than other consoles. The primary process involves a port forwarding option, that enables your console behind the router to connect with other consoles on the internet. Port forwarding your Nintendo Switch seems to improve loading times, and internet speed, and fasten the matchmaking process.
Here is how to do Port Forwarding on Nintendo Switch:
Collect Important Network Details
To do this right, you must gather information like your IP address, default gateway, and subnet mask. These things are achievable through the computer or smartphone.
Users who are on Windows 10 PC, follow these steps:
- Go to the search bar, type cmd and press enter.
- Once you are in a command prompt, type ipconfig/all and press enter.
- Search for the IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway mentioned somewhere on the screen.
Assign a Static IP Address to Your Nintendo Switch
Once you have gathered the essential information, open the Nintendo Switch and follow these simple steps:
- Go to System Settings > Internet
- Open Internet Settings > Advanced Settings of your network.
- Choose your Wi-Fi Network
- Press the Change Settings option.
- Locate IP Address Settings, select and Open Manual
- Select IP Address and keep pressing the B button to delete the current IP address
- Now, enter the IP address you collected from your computer.
- Change the last two digits of your IP address, adding 20 to the number (192.168.2.20 should be 192.168.2.40)
- Now, select Subnet mask and keep pressing the B button to delete it
- Enter the subnet mask you took from the computer
- Same step goes for Gateway, then press OK.
Change Router Settings
Once you are done changing your Nintendo Switch’s IP address to static, you must change the settings on your router as well. Each router has different settings, which makes this process a bit tricky. If your router is provided by the ISP of yours, its better to contact them for further assistance. If not, let’s do it following our steps.
- Log into your router settings.
- Find the tab that says Port Forwarding (usually in the Firewall Security, Virtual Server, Gaming, or Application section).
- Type Nintendo Switch if you are asked for the application name.
- Enter the correct UDP protocol range, this needs to have starting and ending ports entered which is from 1 to 65535 for Nintendo Switch.
- After this, enter the IP address you previously inserted in your console.
- Apply the settings, and save the changes before closing the window.
Testing the NAT Type
This step involves checking if you have gotten the NAT Type A. This can be done through running an internet connection test by going to System Settings > Internet > Test connection.
Learn More:
What are Nintendo Switch NAT Settings?
Nintendo Switch NAT settings are making changes in your router so it achieves the desired NAT type. Few settings that need to be considered for adjusting your Nintendo Switch’s NAT type.
Port Forwarding
To achieve an open or moderate NAT type, configure port forwarding on your router. This process directs specific network traffic (ports) to your Nintendo Switch.
Required Ports for Nintendo Switch:
- 45000-65535 (UDP)
- 49152-65535 (TCP and UDP)
Note that the exact ports may vary depending on the games you’re playing.
UPnP (Universal Plug and Play)
UPnP automatically manages ports for multiple devices that support it. By enabling UPnP on your router, you can achieve a more open NAT type without the need for manual port forwarding configuration.
DMZ (Demilitarized Zone)
If you continue to experience NAT issues, consider placing your Nintendo Switch in your router’s DMZ. This allows internet traffic to reach your Switch directly, bypassing internal network firewalls.
Static IP Address
Assigning a static IP address to your Nintendo Switch in your router’s settings ensures that your port forwarding rules remain linked to your device. This helps prevent conflicts and keeps your settings consistent.
Firewall Settings
Review your router’s firewall settings to ensure they aren’t overly restrictive, as this can impact your NAT type. Sometimes, simply adjusting these settings can lead to a more open NAT.
Router Firmware Update
Regularly checking for and installing router firmware updates helps maintain network compatibility and can resolve NAT-related issues.
Is it Beneficial to Disable NAT?
If you are running on a home network, disabling NAT is not recommended. This is because disabling NAT is associated with increased security risk to your device. NAT serves as a security wall between the private home network and the public internet. Disabling NAT will result in every device connected to your network will be given a unique IP address, while exposing them to certain security threats.
Furthermore, disabling NAT can also lead to IP conflicts, where multiple devices try to use the same public IP address and create a major connectivity issue. Not only does it prevent other devices from communicating with each other but also with the other external servers.
You can’t disable NAT for Nintendo as it might cause connectivity problems. Issues like the inability to join multiplayer games and performing voice chats are a few of the drawbacks. Changing the NAT type to the desired one tends to be the most effective way than disabling it.
Conclusion
Frequently Asked Questions
Is open NAT good for gaming?
If you are a gamer and want to game without lags and internet issues, opting for Open NAT is best for you. Open NAT is devoid of a firewall, which makes it less secure than other NAT types.
Is NAT type B good for Nintendo Switch?
NAT types of Nintendo Switch units range from Type A to Type F, with Type A being best for communication while Type F completely blocks communication. If your NAT Type is A or B on Nintendo Switch, it shouldn’t be causing any problems.
How to check NAT type?
You can check the NAT type by running an internet connection test. Open System Settings, go to the Internet, and Test connections.