How to jailbreak a Nintendo Switch
Jailbreaking your Nintendo Switch can open up a world of possibilities, allowing you to do more with your console. From installing additional games, including retro titles, to running unofficial apps, it gives you new functionalities. However, it’s important to understand the risks involved and the potential consequences. Here’s a simple guide on how to jailbreak your Nintendo Switch and some precautions you should take.
Why would I want to jailbreak my Switch? Jailbreaking provides access to the Nintendo Switch’s operating system in a way that was not intended by its creators. This allows for the creation and downloading of custom apps and games that are not usually available. Jailbreaking the Switch lets you install unofficial apps and games, offering a chance to play retro games on your console. If you’re looking for new games to explore, there are plenty of options available.
What are the risks of jailbreaking my Switch? The primary risk of jailbreaking your Nintendo Switch is the possibility of “bricking” the console, rendering it unusable. Although rare, jailbreaking tweaks the operating system, which can lead to undesired consequences. Additionally, jailbreaking voids the warranty, and Nintendo may not replace a bricked console. Moreover, it’s uncertain if Nintendo can detect if the console has been jailbroken without a physical inspection. Considering these risks, it is advisable not to jailbreak your primary Switch console. Instead, it’s better to purchase a dedicated Homebrew Switch console for experimentation purposes. You can find affordable Nintendo Switch deals to set up a spare console for this purpose.
How do I jailbreak my Nintendo Switch? While there are multiple ways to jailbreak a Nintendo Switch, the most popular and user-friendly method is using the Homebrew Launcher. This method does not require a PC or Mac and can be done using only a laptop, a microSD card, and your Nintendo Switch. However, it’s essential to note that the Homebrew Launcher is only compatible with Switch software version 3.0.0. If your Switch is running software below 3.0.0, you can upgrade using a physical copy of the game Pokken Tournament DX with the cartridge identification number 000, which will update your software to version 3.0.0.
To jailbreak your Switch using the Homebrew Launcher, follow these steps:
- Download the latest version of “nx-hbmenu” from GitHub (3.3.0 at the time of writing).
- Copy the file “hbmenu.nro” to the root menu of your microSD card.
- Insert the microSD card into your Nintendo Switch.
- Go to the connection settings on your Switch and manually configure your DNS server. Enter the following DNS when prompted: “104.236.106.125”, and perform a connection test.
- Click on “Install”.
- Restart your Nintendo Switch.
- Run another connection test.
- Click on “Run”.
If you see “2000-1337” on your screen, the installation has been successful. You can then access the Home menu and click on the Album icon to browse your homebrew apps and games.
Please note that there is another method of jailbreaking for older software versions, but it won’t work with consoles purchased from July 2018 onwards. It also carries more risks, as it involves shorting out pins on the right JoyCon. Visit the provided link for more information, but keep in mind that Tech Advisor is not responsible for any damage to your console.
How do I install Homebrew games and apps? After jailbreaking your Nintendo Switch, you’ll find a limited selection of homebrew apps and games available for download. While it may not offer as vast a selection as iOS jailbreaking, there are still options to explore.
To install homebrew apps and games:
- Visit the Switchbrew website to find a collection of supported homebrew apps.
- Download the necessary files for the desired app or game.
- Transfer the downloaded files to the “switch/” directory on your microSD card.
- Insert the microSD card back into your Switch.
With these simple steps, you can enhance your Nintendo Switch experience with various homebrew apps and games.
Remember, jailbreaking your Nintendo Switch comes with risks. Proceed only if you fully understand the implications and are willing to accept the potential consequences. Happy gaming!