It's possible to inquire about utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console.

It's possible to inquire about utilizing a Virtual Private Network (VPN) with the upcoming Nintendo Switch 2 console.

Revamped Guide:

Get ready for the Nintendo Switch 2 dropping on June 5th! While you're eagerly awaiting its arrival, let's dive into a less thrilling but essential topic - protecting your data and privacy.

You might not think about it immediately when buying your new console, but with the internet and numerous accounts, downloads, and sign-ups, you'll be sharing plenty of personal data. A strong online presence leaves room for potential security breaches.

Don't worry—the best VPNs can help! Not only can they protect your online data across various devices, but they might even unblock geo-restricted games, keep you safe from malware and hackers, and boost performance. However, the big question is: Can you use a VPN with the Nintendo Switch 2?

While the Switch 2, like most consoles, doesn't natively support VPNs, there are ways to reap the benefits of a VPN. Here's how to go about it:

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Setting Up a VPN for Your Nintendo Switch 2

Unlike most devices, the Switch 2 doesn't allow you to install a VPN app directly. However, you can still benefit from a VPN's protection.

Utilize a Router-Based VPN

If you stick to home gaming, setting up a router VPN is a good option. Many providers enable you to install a VPN on your Wi-Fi router. It can get tricky for beginners, but if you opt for ExpressVPN, things become a breeze. Their Aircove router comes pre-loaded with VPN software, making it easy to safeguard all devices in your home in minutes. You'll pay extra for the hardware, but lightning-fast speeds and post-quantum encryption join forces to protect up to 8 devices for $4.99 per month for two years (139.72 dollars upfront). To top it off, it throws in a free 5GB holiday.com esim and a 30-day money-back guarantee!

Aircove Go is a compact, travel-friendly version of the Aircove. It's perfect for staying protected on the go.

Setting Up a Virtual Router (For Windows Only)

Creating a hotspot on your phone or laptop won't allow you to share your VPN connection. But you can establish a virtual router on Windows 11 instead.

Windows:

Ensure your VPN app is open but not yet connected to a server.

1. Search for your system Control Panel.2. Select Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center → Change adapter settings - you should see your Wi-Fi network with a green "connected" bar.3. Open your settings, head to Network & internet, then Mobile hotspot, and turn it on. Customize your hotspot's name and password.4. A new adapter connection should be created within your change adapter settings tab - note its name.5. Find your VPN connection. If you're using ExpressVPN it'll be called ExpressVPN TAP Adapter. Other VPNs may have similar names.6. Right click and select Properties.7. Click the Sharing tab and check the box titled Allow other network users to connect through this computer's internet connection.8. Select the name of the mobile hotspot connection that was created earlier from the drop-down list and press OK.9. Connect to your VPN server through your app.10. Your virtual router is now active and ready for use.11. Grab your Nintendo Switch 2, navigate to the Wi-Fi selection screen, and connect to your virtual router.12. Your connected device will now enjoy VPN protection.

In our tests, we experienced some challenges, but with persistence, we were ultimately successful.

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Establishing a virtual router on Mac is highly difficult, since Macs can only connect to, or broadcast Wi-Fi, making it impossible to simultaneously connect and broadcast on the same device[3]. If you are keen on creating a Mac virtual router at home, then this Comparitech guide is your best bet.

However, if you have an Aircove Go, you can leverage its Ethernet connection to set up a Mac virtual router. But it's simpler to connect directly to the VPN-enabled Aircove Wi-Fi when you're out and about.

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A VPN is super handy for safeguarding your data when using public Wi-Fi, as hackers might exploit these connections. A VPN encrypts your data and keeps it hidden from hackers and third parties, even if you accidentally connect to a fake hotspot[6].

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Connecting to a VPN is likely to keep your latency low when gaming online and reduce ISP throttling, preventing your ping from spiking erratically[6]. The fastest VPNs, like Surfshark, NordVPN, and Proton VPN, all posted speeds of over 900 Mbps, with ExpressVPN just below at 898 Mbps. As long as your internet connection is solid, a VPN won't slow you down.

Let's Play Secure!

Despite the Switch 2 lacking native VPN support, setting up a VPN for your console is possible with a bit of effort. If you want router protection for both home and travel, ExpressVPN's Aircove router is unbeatable!

1. Although the Nintendo Switch 2 doesn't natively support VPNs like many other devices, it's still possible to gain the benefits of a VPN, especially when protecting your data and privacy on various gadgets, thanks to the use of routers with built-in VPN software or by setting up virtual routers on compatible operating systems.
2. While most consumers think of VPNs in conjunction with smartphones and computers, it's crucial to understand that the increased overlapping of technology in our daily lives means protecting multiple devices, such as gaming consoles like the Switch 2, is just as important to maintain a strong online presence and prevent potential security breaches.

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