Trusted Reviews is supported by its audience. If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a commission. Learn more.

How to update the software on a Nintendo Switch

Here is how you can update the software on your Switch game console in just a few easy steps.

The Nintendo Switch is one of the most popular consoles available on the market right now, featuring a wide variety of games to enjoy.

But, as with all gaming systems, you will need to make sure that your device is up to date to play them. This can be a little more difficult on a handheld console, as you may decide that you want to put off updating your system if you’re already halfway through a game.

Thankfully, even after you have been prompted about a software update, you can still manually update your Switch console. Keep reading to find out how to update your Nintendo Switch software in just a few simple steps.

What you’ll need: 

A Nintendo Switch and a reliable internet connection

The Short Version 

  • Go to Settings
  • Click on System
  • Choose System Update
  • Follow the instructions on screen
  1. Step
    1

    Go to Settings

    Turn on your Switch and then choose the Settings button from the menu at the bottom of the screen.Setting button in Nintendo Switch

  2. Step
    2

    Click on System

    Once in Settings, scroll to the very bottom of the page and click on the option called System.Nintendo Switch System Update button

  3. Step
    3

    Choose System Update

    There is a sub-menu accessible from System. Click on the first option, which says System Update.System update button on Nintendo Switch

  4. Step
    4

    Follow the instructions on screen

    Follow the instructions on screen. If your device is due for a software update, you may need to reset your device, but you will be prompted to do so. Follow the update on screen

Troubleshooting

How often does the Nintendo Switch need to be upgraded?

There is not a set amount of software updates that go live within any period of time, however, as of writing this article the last software update for the Switch was on 11th October 2022.

Do I need an internet connection to update my Switch?

You will need a connection to the internet to update your Nintendo Switch.

Why trust our journalism?

Founded in 2003, Trusted Reviews exists to give our readers thorough, unbiased and independent advice on what to buy.

Today, we have millions of users a month from around the world, and assess more than 1,000 products a year.

author icon

Editorial independence

Editorial independence means being able to give an unbiased verdict about a product or company, with the avoidance of conflicts of interest. To ensure this is possible, every member of the editorial staff follows a clear code of conduct.

author icon

Professional conduct

We also expect our journalists to follow clear ethical standards in their work. Our staff members must strive for honesty and accuracy in everything they do. We follow the IPSO Editors’ code of practice to underpin these standards.

Trusted Reviews Logo

Sign up to our newsletter

Get the best of Trusted Reviews delivered right to your inbox.

This is a test error message with some extra words