How to use VPN on Nintendo Switch in 2024

The Nintendo Switch is well-known as a popular handheld gaming device with some exclusive titles, such as Animal Crossing. You can also install many other games and applications for streaming movies and TV shows.

Unfortunately, the list of software you can’t install on a Switch is extensive and even includes VPNs (Virtual Private Networks). This limitation means there’s no easy way of curbing geo-blocks or staying private while gaming on the device.

But all hope is not lost because there are other ways of reaping the benefits of a VPN on Nintendo Switch. Read on to learn how.

Shortlist of the best VPNs to use on Nintendo Switch

1. NordVPN

   The best VPN for Nintendo Switch
   9.8
2. Surfshark VPN

   Nintendo Switch VPN with unlimited connections
   9.5
3. PrivateVPN

   Well-rounded VPN for Nintendo Switch
   8.7

Why do you need a VPN for Nintendo Switch?

There are many reasons to use a reliable gaming VPN while enjoying your Nintendo Switch. They’ll become clear once we overview the basic principle of VPN technology.

In short, VPN services work by rerouting your internet connection through one of their many servers worldwide. This relatively simple process accomplishes multiple things. Firstly, it hides your home IP address and makes it look like you’re elsewhere. That way, you can circumvent geographical restrictions and access games or virtual rewards exclusive to other regions.

Another often overlooked benefit of a VPN connection is that you're no longer vulnerable to DDoS (Distributed Denial-of-Service) attacks. Plus, if you’re using a secure VPN with loads of extra features, you won’t be bothered by online ads or trackers. Additionally, your entire connection is encrypted with a 256-bit cipher, making it virtually uncrackable.

As you can see, there are plenty of benefits to having a VPN for Nintendo Switch. But, as mentioned earlier, you must choose your provider carefully because the handheld device doesn’t natively support VPN software.

Best VPNs to use on Nintendo Switch

There’s no need to install a VPN directly onto a device to receive its essential security and privacy benefits. Instead, you can utilize an alternative approach, but only if your VPN allows it. Specifically, you’ll need a router-compatible VPN to change the location of your entire home network.

Of course, this isn’t the only thing you should consider when searching for the best VPN for Nintendo Switch. After all, it would be pretty frustrating if using a virtual private network stalled your upload and download speeds to a halt.

Luckily, there’s no need to worry about performance issues because we tested countless VPNs with Nintendo Switch to find the 5 top contenders. Glance over their perks below and pick one that best suits your needs.

1. NordVPN – the best VPN for Nintendo Switch

NordVPN is the ultimate way to unlock your Nintendo Switch's full potential. It supports router configuration and provides industry-leading connectivity with its proprietary NordLynx protocol. You can see how well it performs by snagging the 7-day NordVPN trial on the Google Play Store.

The NordVPN network spans 7000+ servers in 118+ countries, granting customers plenty of options for creating the most efficient gaming experience. You can also unlock a dedicated IP address to avoid the various pitfalls of using shared servers.

The #1 Nintendo Switch VPN requires an investment of a measly $2.99/month. Use one of our NordVPN coupon codes if you can’t find these prices. And don’t worry about buyer’s remorse because your purchase is insured with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of NordVPN, read our NordVPN review.

2. Surfshark VPN – Nintendo Switch VPN with unlimited connections

Lost count of all the gaming devices that require digital security in your household? Or maybe you need a service to accommodate your ever-expanding Nintendo Switch gaming squad? A VPN with limitless connections is the perfect solution. Surfshark VPN fits the description and offers a 7-day trial if you’re feeling skeptical.

Surfshark VPN commands a massive fleet of 3200+ servers across 100+ countries, unlocking an unprecedented number of foreign content. Meanwhile, ping will remain low because WireGuard and SDN (Software Defined Networking) ensure lightning-fast connection speeds.

Protect all of your gadgets by purchasing this VPN for only $2.19/month. Don’t forget to use a Surfshark coupon code to access the best possible discounts. And no need to stay if you’re unsatisfied with the products, thanks to the 30-day money-back guarantee.

For a deeper investigation of Surfshark VPN, read our Surfshark VPN review.

3. PrivateVPN – well-rounded VPN for Nintendo Switch

PrivateVPN provides a good price-to-performance ratio for Nintendo Switch gamers, Netflix fans, and torrenting enthusiasts. You can take it for a spin by asking customer service for the 7-day free trial.

The humble network boasts 200+ servers in 63+ countries. Efficient data transfer while gaming is conducted using OpenVPN and HQN (High Quality Network). Moreover, one PrivateVPN account supports up to 10 simultaneous connections on various devices.

Using a PrivateVPN coupon code grants access to $2.00/month subscription prices. If you’re having second thoughts, consider the 30-day money-back warranty exit strategy.

For a deeper investigation of PrivateVPN, read our PrivateVPN review.

4. Proton VPN – Nintendo Switch VPN with a excellent privacy

Don’t want anyone to know that Animal Crossing is your favorite pastime activity? Then use Proton VPN for unrivaled confidentiality while gaming on the Nintendo Switch.

The service operates 9200+ servers across 110+ countries. Lag-free multiplayer is ensured with the help of WireGuard and VPN Accelerator. Meanwhile, confidentiality is covered by the trifecta of Swiss jurisdiction, an audited no-logs policy, and open-source software.

Proton VPN has a limitless free plan if you’re willing to give it a shot. However, its performance isn’t suitable for lag-free gaming on the Nintendo Switch. Therefore, you should use a ProtonVPN deal and commit $3.59/month for the excellent premium plan.

For a deeper investigation of Proton VPN, read our Proton VPN review.

5. PureVPN – affordable Nintendo Switch VPN

Tech-savvy users are aware that quantum-powered computers could make contemporary encryption irrelevant. Thankfully, services like PureVPN look ahead and enhance their software with quantum-resistant encryption. Besides that, it’s a solid option for unblocking geo-restricted games on Nintendo Switch.

Customers can connect to over 6500 servers across 71+ countries. You won’t encounter connectivity issues because the service boasts 10 Gbps servers and the WireGuard protocol. Plus, you can sign up for a dedicated IP address to have exclusive access to a particular server.

You can go on a 7-day trial stint with PureVPN for only $0.99. Meanwhile, a long-term commitment starts at $1.99/month. Don’t forget to use a PureVPN coupon at checkout for incredible savings.

For a deeper investigation of PureVPN, read our PureVPN review.

How we selected VPNs for Nintendo Switch

Compiling a list of the best VPNs for Nintendo Switch is no easy task because there are so many criteria to consider. Not to mention that each customer has different priorities, too. As such, we provide you with an outline of what we consider the most crucial aspects of any Nintendo Switch VPN.

1. Device compatibility. A VPN without adequate device support is useless to Switch gamers. You’ll have the best experience with router-compatible VPNs because you won’t need to use other devices to create Wi-Fi hotspots.
2. Connection speed. Lagging is one of the most annoying things an online gamer can encounter. This will become a recurring issue if you don’t opt for a fast VPN with modern tunneling protocols.
3. Server network. Optimal connectivity is ensured when there are enough servers to support the entire VPN service’s user base. That means you should consider providers operating a diverse fleet with thousands of servers.
4. Security benefits. Carefree gaming is possible if you’re completely protected from various cybersecurity dangers. Naturally, threat models vary for each, so consider your situation and pick a VPN accordingly.
5. Privacy practices. A solid no-logs VPN is good enough to keep your online gaming habits hidden from prying eyes. However, you can go the extra mile by opting for audited providers who reside in privacy-respecting countries (outside the 14 Eyes alliance).
6. Subscription price. The best VPNs for Nintendo Switch are neither free nor ridiculously expensive. Plus, they include money-back guarantees and free trials, allowing potential customers to test the services without commitment.
7. Customer support options. Perhaps “installing a VPN on a router” or “creating a Wi-Fi hotspot” sound like magical incantations to you. In that case, you’ll need assistance from wise customer support agents.

How to setup a VPN on Nintendo Switch

There are only two ways to set up a VPN on Nintendo Switch since the device doesn’t support VPN software natively. Those methods are:

1. Creating a mobile hotspot
2. Installing the VPN on a router

Follow our instructions to get everything up and running.

How to get a VPN on Nintendo Switch through a mobile hotspot

1. Subscribe to a VPN with apps for mobile and desktop devices. The most versatile option is NordVPN
2. Download the VPN app on your designated hotspot-creating device
3. Open the software, log in, and connect to a server
4. Visit your device’s network settings and create a mobile hotspot
5. Connect your Nintendo Switch to that hotspot and start gaming securely!

Get the best Nintendo Switch VPN

How to get a VPN on Nintendo Switch through router setup

1. Purchase a VPN that supports router configuration. Our top choice is NordVPN
2. Open a web browser and input the router’s IP address in the address bar
3. Install the VPN on your home router (details will depend on your hardware and chosen provider)
4. Test the network by connecting another device and checking it’s IP address
5. Connect your Nintendo Switch to the router network to play games privately!

Protect your Switch with a VPN

VPN not working on Nintendo Switch: solution

Troubleshooting VPN and Nintendo Switch issues can be especially tricky due to the lack of dedicated software for the device. That means switching servers or making other changes to remedy potential problems will be more challenging.

In any case, here’s a brief introduction to the most common issues VPNs run into when trying to unblock geo-restricted content.

• IP and DNS leaks. A faulty VPN connection isn’t 100% reliable and can expose your true location or DNS requests. Use an online tool like dnsleaktest.com to ensure your location has changed.
• Blocked server IP addresses. Online services limit the influence of VPNs by blocking virtual private network server IP addresses. VPN providers, in turn, renew their servers with fresh IP addresses. As such, there’s always a chance for users to come across a blocked IP, but getting a new one requires simply changing servers.
• Outdated software. Sometimes a minor software update is the missing link between you and your desired geo-blocked content. Ensure your VPN app and router firmware are running the latest version.
• VPN traffic detection. VPN-protected traffic stands out from regular traffic due to encryption. On rare occasions, network administrators will block all such activities. Thankfully, some of the most secure VPNs have features specifically for bypassing such VPN blocks.

If nothing helps, contact customer support. They’ll be able to hone in on your particular issue.

Is there a best free VPN for Nintendo Switch?

Perhaps you blew your entire budget on a Nintendo Switch and various games without leaving any funds for a VPN. Therefore, you decide to use a free virtual private network because such an option is available. It is at this point you’ll realize that even the best free VPNs won’t do.

Not sure where I’m going with this? Then allow me to point out the many flaws of no-cost VPNs.

• No router configuration. The most glaring downside is that you’ll be hard-pressed to find a free VPN with router configuration.
• Data caps. Costless VPNs aren’t great for gaming because they typically impose monthly data limits. This means your session could be interrupted because you emptied your data allowance.
• Throttled speed. Since free VPNs don’t make any money, they try to minimize network maintenance costs in every possible way. The most frustrating consequence of this is artificially reduced connectivity. As such, you can expect slow download speeds and high ping.
• Abysmal server selection. Another cost-cutting method is to maintain only a handful of server hardware. That means your server and country options with free VPNs will be limited.
• Subpar security features. No-cost VPNs provide the bare minimum regarding online security. So don’t expect bonus features against ads and get ready for numerous IP and DNS leaks.

That being said, I understand that not everyone can afford a premium VPN for Nintendo Switch. Thankfully, numerous VPNs with free trials are available. Simply find one that supports router configuration, and you’ll be good to go (albeit for a limited time). Otherwise, invest in a reliable VPN and game on your Nintendo Switch without worry.

Get NordVPN for Nintendo Switch

Conclusion

Picking a VPN for Nintendo Switch is not spontaneous because only a handful of providers are suitable for the platform. Crucially, the VPN must be configurable on routers because you can’t install the software directly onto the device. Plus, it’s vital to pick a fast and secure service to prevent excessive lagging and DDoS attacks.

Leave no room for error and go with NordVPN, the best VPN for Nintendo Switch!

What games do you want to unblock with a VPN on Nintendo Switch? Or maybe you’re just looking for security and privacy? Share your most popular use case in the comments section below!

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You may also like to read:
Best VPN for PS4 and PS5
Best VPN for Xbox One
Best VPN for Amazon Fire Stick
How to watch Korean Netflix
How to watch Peacock TV
How to change PSN region on Playstation

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FAQ

Does the Nintendo Switch have a VPN?

No, the Nintendo Switch doesn’t have a built-in VPN and doesn’t support third-party apps either. That means you’ll need to utilize alternative setup methods (creating a mobile hotspot or configuring a router) to gain a VPN’s benefits on the Switch.

Can you use a VPN on a Nintendo Switch?

Yes, but only if you use a mobile hotspot or configure your home router with a VPN connection. This is because the handheld gaming device doesn’t support VPN software natively.

What is the best VPN for Nintendo switch?

NordVPN is the best VPN for Nintendo Switch. It supports manual router configuration, provides industry-leading speeds, and well-rounded digital security. You can pick from over 7000 servers in 7000+ countries to create an optimal connection for your gaming sessions.

Is it legal to use a VPN with Nintendo Switch?

Yes, there are no laws prohibiting VPN use on Nintendo Switch or any other gaming device. The issue lies with specific online services that frown upon using software to hide your true location. Thankfully, there are no serious repercussions for using VPNs to get around geographical restrictions.

Can I use a free VPN for Nintendo Switch?

You won’t find a reliable free VPN for Nintendo Switch. Most importantly, costless VPNs don’t support router configuration. Meanwhile, their connection speeds are horrendous, meaning you’ll be plagued by excessive lagging while gaming.