How to Change NAT Type on Nintendo Switch
Complete guide to getting NAT Type A on Nintendo Switch for the best online gaming experience.
If you are experiencing connection issues while playing Nintendo Switch online, such as being unable to join matches or play with friends, it might be due to your NAT type settings. In this guide, we will show you how to change your console NAT type through Port Forwarding.
Understanding Nintendo Switch NAT Types
Nintendo Switch uses NAT types labeled A, B, C, D, and F. Type A is the most open and provides the best connectivity, while Type F indicates connection failures.
| NAT Type | Description | Connection Quality |
|---|---|---|
Type A | Best connectivity, can connect with all players | Excellent |
Type B | Good connectivity, works with most players | Good |
Type C | Moderate connectivity, may have issues with some players | Moderate |
Type D | Limited connectivity, can only connect with Type A players | Poor |
Type F | Connection test failed, cannot connect online | Failed |
Step 1: Get Required Network Information
Before starting, you need to get three key network parameters: IP Address, Subnet Mask, and Default Gateway.
- 1On a Windows PC, click the search bar at the bottom left and type "cmd" to open Command Prompt.
- 2Type ipconfig/all and press Enter.
- 3In the displayed list, find and note down the values for "IPv4 Address", "Subnet Mask", and "Default Gateway".
Step 2: Set Static IP Address on Nintendo Switch
Now configure a static IP on your Switch to ensure consistent port forwarding.
- 1Go to System Settings on Nintendo Switch.
- 2Select Internet, then click Internet Settings.
- 3Select your current Wi-Fi network and click Change Settings.
- 4Find IP Address Settings and change it from Automatic to Manual.
- 5Click IP Address and enter the IP you got from your PC. To avoid IP conflicts, add 30 to the last three digits (e.g., if your IP is 192.168.2.10, enter 192.168.2.40).
- 6Enter the Subnet Mask and Default Gateway you noted earlier, then click Save.
Step 3: Configure Router Settings
After completing the Switch settings, you need to log into your router interface for port forwarding. Since router interfaces vary, refer to your manual or contact the manufacturer.
Create a new forwarding rule:
- • Name: Nintendo Switch (for easy identification)
- • Protocol: UDP
- • Port Range: Start port 1, End port 65535
- • IP Address: Enter the static IP you set on Switch (e.g., 192.168.2.40)
- • Check "Enable" or click "Apply/Save Settings"
Protocol
UDPPort Range
1-65535Step 4: Verify Your NAT Type
- 1Return to Nintendo Switch System Settings.
- 2Select Internet, click Test Connection.
- 3Wait for the test to complete and check if NAT Type has changed to A.
Check NAT Type Online
You can also use our free online NAT detection tool on any device connected to the same network as your Switch. This gives you a more detailed analysis including your exact NAT type classification.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- For docked mode, consider using a USB ethernet adapter for more stable connectivity.
- Try changing your DNS to 8.8.8.8 (Primary) and 8.8.4.4 (Secondary) for potentially better performance.
- If you still have NAT Type D or F, check if your ISP provides a public IP address. Some ISPs use carrier-grade NAT which limits your options.
Conclusion
By following this guide - setting up a static IP on your Switch and configuring port forwarding on your router - you should be able to achieve NAT Type A for the best Nintendo Switch Online experience. If you continue to experience issues after trying these solutions, contact your ISP as they may have additional restrictions.