How to Set up the Nintendo Switch

What to Know

Turn the new games console on and follow on-screen instructions to set up preferences like language, region, and Wi-Fi network.
You can set up Wi-Fi and link a Nintendo account at a later time.
Press the home button, then insert a game cartridge to begin playing once you've set up the console.

This article teaches you how to set up a new Nintendo Switch and how to begin using it. Instructions cover the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch Lite, and Nintendo Switch (OLED model).

How to Set up the Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch setup is pretty straightforward and quite intuitive, but it's helpful to know what to expect. Here's a look at how best to set up the Nintendo Switch so you can be gaming in no time.

Set up is the same for all Switch devices.

Turn the Nintendo Switch on.
Tap the language you wish to use the Nintendo Switch in.
Tap your geographical region.
Tap Next.
Tap your choice of Wi-Fi network.

You can skip this step by clicking X to return to it later.
Enter your network password.
Tap OK.
Tap on your time zone.
Tap Next.
Tap Create New User.

If you're moving from an existing Nintendo Switch console, tap Import a User.
Choose your profile icon.
Enter your nickname and tap OK.
Choose to link your Nintendo account or opt to do it later.
Add additional users or tap Skip.
Tap Next.
Tap Skip or select Set Parental Controls now.
Press the home button to begin using your Nintendo Switch.

How to Use Nintendo Switch the First Time

Using your Nintendo Switch can be a little confusing at first, so here's how to get started.

Insert a game cartridge into the top of the Nintendo Switch console, then tap on the game to begin playing it.
Alternatively, scroll down to Nintendo eShop to buy digital download games to play on the console.

You need a Nintendo account to purchase games this way.
Adjust System Settings by scrolling to System Settings and tweaking anything you feel needs adjusting.

How to Link a Nintendo Account to Your Nintendo Switch

If you've set up your Nintendo Switch and realized you wish to add a Nintendo account, the process is quite simple. Here's how to do it.

Tap Nintendo eShop.
Tap Sign In and Link.
Choose to sign in to an existing account via an email address or smartphone, or tap Create a new account.

Creating a new account must be completed on your PC, Mac, or smartphone.
Complete the process so you can now purchase items from the Nintendo eShop as well as add friends.

What Else Can I Do With My Nintendo Switch?

Besides playing games, you can also do other things on the Nintendo Switch. Here's a quick overview of what you can do.

Watch YouTube. You can watch YouTube videos on your Nintendo Switch just like doing so on your smartphone or computer.
Purchase Nintendo Switch Online. Nintendo Switch Online is a paid subscription that allows you to play online multiplayer games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and download games such as Tetris 99. It also gives you access to NES and SNES games in a growing library of free games.

How to Hook up a Nintendo Switch to a TV

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