How to use the hidden web browser on Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch Lite

How to use hidden web browser on Nintendo Switch
(Image credit: Rebecca Spear / iMore)

While the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, and the Switch Lite are fantastic devices, there are a few small complaints, especially when it comes to the lack of applications. At first look, it might seem like these devices don't have a web browser built-in. But 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. 

WARNING: Accessing the hidden web browser on Switch, Switch OLED, 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.

What you'll need

To access a web browser on a Nintendo Switch, you'll need one of Nintendo's consoles. Here is the current lineup to choose from:

Nintendo Switch OLED

Nintendo Switch OLED $337 at Amazon

Visuals from your favorite games can be enjoyed even more on this bigger 7-inch screen. The colors come through more vibrantly, and the details are crisper than previous Switch iterations. 

Nintendo Switch

Nintendo Switch $298 at Amazon

It might not offer the fancy OLED display of the latest model, but the Switch V2 is still an impressive gaming system that will allow you to play all of the best Switch games. 

Nintendo Switch Lite

Nintendo Switch Lite $189 at Amazon

A lighter console that is perfect for smaller hands. If you're only looking for a handheld experience and want a Switch you can throw in your bag without much hassle, then look no further than the Lite.

Change your primary DNS

To access a web browser, you'll first need to change your primary DNS. Here's how to do that.

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

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2. Select Internet.

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3. Select Internet Settings.

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4. Choose the Wi-Fi connection that you are currently connected to

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5. On the settings page for your network, select Change Settings.

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6. Scroll down and select DNS Settings.

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7. Change the DNS setting from Automatic to Manual.

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8. Select your Primary DNS and set it as 045.055.142.122 and save.

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

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11. You will see a prompt that says "Registration is required to use this network." Select Next.

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12. You will now see the SwitchBru DNS page. All you have to do is click the button that reads Continue to Google.

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13. The Google search bar will appear. Now you can browse the internet!

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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.

Done browsing? Set DNS back to Automatic

Make sure to return your network DNS back to Automatic when you're done using the browser. Here's how to do that.

1. From the Home Menu, click on System Settings.

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2. Click on Internet.

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3. Click on Internet Settings.

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4. Once the page loads, choose the Wi-Fi connection that you are currently connected to.

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5. Select Change Settings.

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6. Scroll down and select DNS Settings.

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7. Change the DNS Setting from Manual to Automatic.

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8. To exit back to the main menu, simply press the Home button on your Switch.

(Image credit: 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 helpful Switch 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.

Rebecca Spear
Gaming Editor

Gaming aficionado Rebecca Spear is iMore's dedicated gaming editor with a focus on Nintendo Switch and iOS gaming. You’ll never catch her without her Switch or her iPad Air handy. If you’ve got a question about Pokémon, The Legend of Zelda, or just about any other Nintendo series check out her guides to help you out. Rebecca has written thousands of articles in the last six years including hundreds of extensive gaming guides, previews, and reviews for both Switch and Apple Arcade. She also loves checking out new gaming accessories like iPhone controllers and has her ear to the ground when it comes to covering the next big trend. 

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