You can still connect a Nintendo 3DS to a wireless network: open System Settings → Internet Settings → Connection Settings, add a connection, choose or enter your network details, then save and test it. A Wi-Fi connection does not restore discontinued online play or other 3DS software services.
Connect the 3DS to a Wi-Fi network
- From the HOME Menu, open System Settings.
- Select Internet Settings, then Connection Settings.
- Choose an available connection slot and select the option to set up a new connection.
- Choose the detected-access-point option to select your network, or enter the network information manually. Enter the Wi-Fi password when prompted.
- Save the settings and run the connection test.
Nintendo’s Nintendo 3DS Operations Manual specifies wireless Internet access and 802.11b/g support. That does not establish that every modern router or security configuration will work. If you need a new access point, check for 2.4 GHz and 802.11b/g support before buying; there is no verified model recommendation here.
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If the connection test fails
- Confirm another device can access the Internet through the same network.
- Check the password and try entering it again.
- Move the 3DS closer to the access point.
- If the network is a public hotspot, check whether it requires a web sign-in, terms acceptance, or password entry in a browser. Nintendo says hotspots requiring that kind of browser-based setup cannot provide Internet access to the 3DS; try a network without a captive portal. See Nintendo’s Error Code: 003-4100 – 003-4199 guidance.
These checks can identify common network problems, but they are not a universal fix for every connection error.
What a Wi-Fi connection can and cannot do now
Nintendo ended online play and other functionality using online communication for 3DS software, including New Nintendo 3DS-exclusive software, at 5 p.m. PDT on April 8, 2024. That includes online cooperative play, Internet rankings, and data distribution. Offline modes remain usable. Nintendo listed Pokémon Bank and Poké Transporter as exceptions in its notice, while warning that those services may also end in the future. See Nintendo’s announcement on the discontinuation of online services.
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- Features: 3D Depth Slider, Wi-Fi Capability, Nintendo 3DS Sound, Mii Maker, 3D Camera, Front & Rear Camera, Touch Screen
- Includes: AC Power Adapter, Stylus
- Wired Connectivity: Wireless
- Model Compatibility: Nintendo 3DS
Downloads are a separate matter. Nintendo says previously purchased software and downloadable content can be redownloaded, and software updates can be received, for the foreseeable future. New eShop purchases and downloads of free content, including demos, ended on March 27, 2023, at 5 p.m. Pacific Time. Connecting the console to Wi-Fi does not reopen the eShop for those purchases or free downloads. See Nintendo’s Service Discontinuation: Nintendo eShop for Nintendo 3DS.
StreetPass and SpotPass are not the same
StreetPass uses local communication between nearby 3DS-family systems and remains available. SpotPass relies on online communication, so its features are no longer available, according to Nintendo’s service-discontinuation notice.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Tell a Wi-Fi problem from a discontinued service
The console cannot find or join a network
Focus on the network: verify that it is available and compatible, check the password, test another device on it, and try closer to the access point. A failure to join does not by itself mean Nintendo’s service shutdown is the cause.
A game shows error 002-0110
Nintendo says this error means the online service for the game or application is no longer available. Reconfiguring Wi-Fi will not bring that service back. See Nintendo’s Error Code: 002-0110 article.
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- Item Package Dimension- 8.49999999133L x 6.099999993778W x 2.399999997552H inches
- Item Package Weight - 0.9499999992033387 Pounds
- Item Package Quantity - 1
- Product Type - VIDEO GAME CONSOLE
An eShop purchase or free download is unavailable
New purchases and free-content downloads ended in March 2023. Previously purchased content redownloads and software updates remain available for the foreseeable future under Nintendo’s current support statement; those remaining options are not a return of eShop purchasing.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Motion Sensor & Gyro Sensor. Two screens. Analog Control.
- For ages 6 and up. Backwards Compatibility. StreetPass. Spotpass.
- Nintendo 3DS camera; Adjustable Stylus. Charging Cradle. 2GB SD Memory Card Included.
Rank #4
- The set includes ● - Nintendo 3DS body -Nintendo 3DS-only charging base - Nintendo 3DS AC adapter for - Nintendo 3DS stylus-only · SD Memory Card 2GB · AR Cards (6 pieces) Easy-Start Guide Instruction manual - Warranty ---! Regard to 3D video --- · There is individual difference in the Visibility of 3D video. That it may not be seen in 3D video content physical condition and constitution, of the video, such as by the surrounding circumstances, Please note. - For children 6 years old and below, because there may adversely affect the growth of the eye and continue to see 3D images for a long time, please use the 2D display. The 3D video of Nintendo 3DS, not only can see the body
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
