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Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Nintendo Switch system software 18.0.1 was the firmware update covered by the original April 24, 2024 headline. It fixed an issue that prevented some wireless access points from appearing during new-network setup and included general stability improvements. It was released for the original Nintendo Switch family, including the Switch Lite and Switch – OLED Model.
That update is no longer current. As of August 16, 2026, Nintendo’s Americas support page lists version 22.5.0, released June 15, 2026. The UK support page lists the same version as arriving June 16. If you are updating a console today, install the version offered through System Settings → System → System Update, then check the system version shown on the console.
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What Nintendo Switch firmware update 18.0.1 changed
Version 18.0.1 was primarily a maintenance update rather than a major feature release. According to the contemporary report published on April 24, 2024, Nintendo addressed a problem in which some wireless access points could not be found while setting up a new wireless network. The update also included general system-stability improvements.
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Nintendo did not describe 18.0.1 as adding a major new interface, game feature, performance mode, battery improvement, or frame-rate enhancement. Its main practical benefit was resolving a specific wireless-network discovery problem.
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- The next evolution of Nintendo Switch
- One system, three play modes: TV, Tabletop, and Handheld
- Larger, vivid, 7.9” LCD touch screen with support for HDR and up to 120 fps
- Dock that supports 4K when connected to a compatible TV*
- GameChat** lets you voice chat, share your game screen, and connect via video chat as you play
See the original 18.0.1 coverage for the historical rollout details.
Which Switch consoles support the update?
The 18.0.1 update applied to:
- Nintendo Switch
- Revised Nintendo Switch model
- Nintendo Switch Lite
- Nintendo Switch – OLED Model
This article concerns the original Nintendo Switch platform. Nintendo Switch 2 is separate and has its own system-update history, so Switch 2 owners should use Nintendo’s dedicated Switch 2 update documentation rather than assuming that an original Switch version applies.
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- 6.2” LCD screen
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
- Nintendo Switch is the home of Mario & friends
How to update a Nintendo Switch
The console normally downloads system updates automatically when it is connected to the internet. To check manually:
- Open System Settings from the HOME Menu.
- Scroll down and select System.
- Select System Update.
- If an update is available, follow the on-screen instructions. The console may restart when installation is complete.
Nintendo’s full instructions are available on its system-update support page.
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- Play your way with the Nintendo Switch gaming system. Whether you’re at home or on the go, solo or with friends, the Nintendo Switch system is designed to fit your life. Dock your Nintendo Switch to enjoy HD gaming on your TV. Heading out? Just undock your console and keep playing in handheld mode
- This model includes battery life of approximately 4.5 - 9 hours.
- The battery life will depend on the games you play. For instance, the battery will last approximately 5.5 hours for The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild (games sold separately)
- Model number HAC 001( 01)
How to check the installed system version
Open System Settings → System. The console displays its current System Version on that screen. Use this number rather than an article date to determine whether the update installed.
What to do if the update fails
- Confirm that the Switch is connected to the internet.
- Restart the console.
- Return to System Settings → System → System Update and try again.
For the specific wireless-access-point problem associated with version 18.0.1, Nintendo’s reported workaround was to temporarily configure the router to use WPA2 (AES) only, complete the update, and then restore the router’s previous security settings.
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- This pre-owned product is not Apple certified, but has been professionally inspected, tested and cleaned by Amazon-qualified suppliers.
- 6.2” LCD screen.
- Three play modes: TV, tabletop, and handheld
- Local co-op, online, and local wireless multiplayer
- Detachable Joy-Con controllers
This is not a universal fix for failed updates and is not a recommendation to permanently weaken your network security. Do not disable wireless security entirely. If your Switch is already online and the update downloads normally, changing the router configuration is unnecessary.
The latest original Switch firmware in 2026: version 22.5.0
For current readers, version 18.0.1 is an older release. Nintendo’s Americas system-update page currently lists version 22.5.0 as the latest original Switch system software, released on June 15, 2026. Nintendo’s UK page lists the regional release date as June 16, 2026, illustrating that dates can vary by region.
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- One player can use a Joy-Con in each hand
- Two players can each take one
- Multiple Joy-Con can be employed by numerous people for a variety of gameplay options (additional Joy-Con sold separately)
- Slip a set of Joy-Con into a Joy-Con grip accessory, mirroring a more traditional controller. Or, select an optional Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Version 22.5.0 includes:
- A redesigned Nintendo eShop layout.
- An eShop color scheme matching the console’s “Basic Dark” theme color.
- User-verification PIN confirmation when accessing Nintendo eShop and when using saved payment methods.
- Ten-second rewind and advance controls for full-screen video in News and Nintendo eShop, using ZL and ZR.
- General system-stability improvements.
The PIN adds an extra confirmation step, which can be useful on consoles shared by several people or with saved payment methods. It does not replace good Nintendo Account security or eliminate every account-related risk.
Check Nintendo’s current system-update information for the version available in your region.
System updates versus game updates
A system update updates the Switch operating system and console-level features. A software update updates an individual game or application. They are separate processes.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchTo manage automatic game and application updates, open System Settings → System → Auto-Update Software. Nintendo provides separate instructions for updating Switch software.
Bottom line
The original “new firmware update” headline referred to Switch version 18.0.1, released April 24, 2024, mainly to fix wireless-network discovery and improve stability. It is not the latest firmware in 2026: Nintendo currently lists version 22.5.0. Install whatever version your console offers through System Settings, and verify the result under System. Use the temporary WPA2 (AES) router workaround only for the historical 18.0.1 wireless issue, then restore your normal network settings.
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