How To Get Google On Nintendo Switch

While the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, and the Switch Lite are fantastic little pieces of hardware, there are a smattering of small complaints about these devices, including the hidden web browser on the Switch. At first look, it appears that neither device has a web browser built-in. The good news is that you actually can use a web browser on your Switch, and you don't have to do anything as warranty breaking as hacking your gaming system. If you want to surf the net on your Switch or Switch Lite, here's how to do it.

Accessing the hidden web browser on Switch or the Switch Lite in this unofficial way runs the risk of having your personal information tracked and stolen. As this is not a secure web browsing method, please don't use it without considering the risks.

How to browse the web on Nintendo Switch:

How to change your primary DNS
How to set your DNS back to Automatic

How to change your primary DNS

From the dashboard of your Nintendo Switch, scroll over to System Settings.
Select Internet.

Source: iMore
Select Internet Settings.
Choose the Wi-Fi connection that you are currently connected to.

Source: iMore
On the settings page for your network, select Change Settings.
Scroll down and select DNS Settings.

Source: iMore
Change the DNS setting from Automatic to Manual.
Select your Primary DNS and set it as 045.055.142.122 and save.

Source: iMore
A screen will pop up, saying, "Settings have been saved." Click OK.
You will now see the previous screen. Click on Connect to This Network. Your Switch will now attempt to connect to the network.

Source: iMore
You will see a prompt that says "Registration is required to use this network." Select Next.
You will now see the SwitchBru DNS page. All you have to do is click the button that reads Continue to Google.

Source: iMore
The Google search bar will appear. Now you can browse the internet.

Source: iMore

You now have access to the hidden web browser on Switch. Once you are done using the browser, all you have to do is go back and set your network DNS from Manual back to Automatic. If you want help with changing back to Automatic, follow the steps below.

How to set your network DNS back to Automatic

From the Home Menu, click on System Settings.
Click on Internet.

Source: iMore
Click on Internet Settings.
Once the page loads, choose the Wi-Fi connection that you are currently connected to.

Source: iMore
Select Change Settings.
Scroll down and select DNS Settings.

Source: iMore
Change the DNS Setting from Manual to Automatic.
To exit back to the main menu, simply press the Home button on your Switch.

Source: iMore and Rebecca Spear / iMore

I have used this method to get on the hidden web browser on Switch more than a few times. While it's not perfect, it is effective, and I am grateful to have a workaround to Nintendo's oversight. Just remember that this unofficial way of surfing the web can leave you open to several risks.

Additional Equipment

These are some of the best Switch accessories, and I've found that they greatly improve my Switch gaming sessions. See if anything catches your eye.

Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Pro Controller ($70 at Best Buy)

Whether you've got the larger Nintendo Switch or the Switch Lite, you can benefit from using a Pro Controller. It features motion controls, amiibo functionality, and a better ergonomic design to enhance your gaming experience. It's also wireless, so you won't have to worry about tripping over cables.

Hori compact playstand for Nintendo Switch

Hori Compact Playstand ($13 at Amazon)

Whether you're using a Switch Lite or the larger Switch having a stand can be incredibly helpful. I typically use mine on the go when I either need to charge my Switch or when I simply want to bring the screen closer to my face.

SanDisk 128GB microSD card

Gimme some space! ($31 at Best Buy)

Regardless of the Switch version you're using, you can always benefit from having more memory on the system. This microSD card has a cute Mario mushroom on it and gives you 128GB. That's plenty of space for screenshots, game data, and downloads.

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