The Nintendo Switch 2 is finally here and is taking hearts by storm. You've secured your copy, taken the first turns with the new exclusives, and now you're wondering: How can I get EVEN more out of Nintendo's new prodigy? The answer might surprise you: with a VPN.
Sounds complicated? But it's not! We'll show you how you can benefit from a VPN, even if the Nintendo Switch 2 doesn't have a VPN function.
agenda
What is a VPN?
Think of a VPN (Virtual Private Network) as a secret teleporter for your internet connection. Normally, your Switch 2 connects directly to the internet, and every server sees that you're from Germany, for example. A VPN redirects your connection through a server in another location—for example, Japan, the US, or New Zealand.
To your console, it will then appear as if it is physically located in that country. This allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and protect your data, as the connection is fully encrypted. A true secret agent move for your console.
Why your Switch 2 can use a VPN
Now that the console is on the market, the benefits of a VPN are more tangible than ever. Here's what you can do with it:
- Unlock the global eShop library: Want to play that awesome demo only available in the Japanese eShop? Or snag an indie gem from the US store? With a VPN, geoblocking is no longer an issue. You have access to games and demos from all over the world.
- Enjoy games earlier: The wait is over – earlier than for everyone else. Many games are unlocked based on your time zone. Simply connect to a VPN server in an earlier time zone (hello, New Zealand!) and start your adventure, often hours before the official German launch.
- Optimize ping and reduce lag: Nothing is more frustrating than lag at the crucial moment. Sometimes the route to the game server isn't optimal. A VPN can find a more direct, faster route, ensuring a more stable connection. For competitive online gaming, however, it's important to test whether the connection is stable and latency-free beforehand.
- Secure on public Wi-Fi: Taking your Switch 2 with you to friends' houses, on vacation, or to a café? Public networks pose a security risk. A VPN encrypts your connection and ensures that your login credentials and private information remain truly private.
How to get VPN on your Switch 2
As expected, Nintendo hasn't included a native VPN app for the Switch 2. But that's no problem, because the community has long since perfected two established methods that work perfectly:
Method 1: Install a VPN on your router (The “set up once, always protected” solution)
This is the most elegant method. You set up VPN access directly in your Wi-Fi router's settings. The huge advantage: All devices in your home network, including your Switch 2, automatically benefit from the VPN connection without you having to do anything extra.
- Check if your router supports VPN functions (many models from ASUS, Netgear, Fritz!Box, etc. do).
- Log in to your router's user interface.
- Enter your VPN provider's login details there (every good provider has detailed instructions).
- Connect your Switch 2 to your Wi-Fi. That's it—it's now online via the VPN!
Method 2: Use your PC or Mac as a Wi-Fi hotspot (The flexible solution for on the go)
Perfect if your router doesn't support VPN or you're on the go. Simply share your laptop's VPN connection with your console.
- Install the VPN software on your PC or Mac and connect to a server of your choice.
- On Windows: Enable the "Mobile Hotspot" feature in the network settings.
- On macOS: Use "Internet Sharing" in System Preferences to share the VPN connection via Wi-Fi.
- Select the new Wi-Fi hotspot on your Switch 2 and connect. You'll now be surfing and gaming via the VPN!
A short but fair note
A VPN is powerful, but not a panacea. Using a very distant server can have a minimal impact on speed. It's also always a good idea to be familiar with Nintendo's terms of service. In practice, however, purchasing games from other eShop regions has been tolerated for years, and there are no known cases of account suspensions for this reason alone.
It's also worth mentioning that a decent VPN provider will charge for its services. If you use a free VPN provider, you're likely paying with your usage data.
We cannot recommend a VPN provider at this point, but there are plenty of reviews and recommendations online.
Conclusion: Unleash the full potential of your Switch 2
A VPN for your Nintendo Switch 2 is an incredibly powerful tool. It transcends digital boundaries, improves your online experience, and provides a significant boost in security. Setup is quick, and the benefits are immediately noticeable for any passionate gamer.