Nintendo Support

How to Update Nintendo Switch in Recovery Mode

In this article, you'll learn how to update the Nintendo Switch console while in Recovery Mode.

Important: Recovery Mode cannot be accessed if the console is powered on or in sleep mode.

Note: This method should only be used if you are unable to perform a system update from within System Settings.

Complete these steps

  1. Ensure the console is powered off.

    • If the console does not respond, hold down the POWER Button for twelve seconds to force it to shut down.

    • Be sure to keep the volume buttons pressed down until the Recovery Mode menu is displayed.

      The POWER and Volume Buttons highlighted on the Nintendo Switch

  2. With the console powered off, hold down the volume up (+) and volume down (-) buttons, then press the POWER Button to turn the system on.

  3. Once in Recovery Mode, select Update System and follow the prompts to complete this process.

    • If a Parental Control PIN has been set for the system, you will be prompted to enter it. If you have forgotten the PIN number, it will need to be reset.