How to Connect Nintendo Wii U to WiFi

Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team

1. Introduction

In This Guide

You'll Learn:

• How to connect your Nintendo Wii U gaming console to Wi-Fi.

2. Credentials

In order to connect to a wireless network, you must have the required credentials. These are:

• Wireless Network Name (SSID)
• Wireless Network Key (Password)

Finding Network Credentials

Most wireless routers/gateways have a label with the default credentials. If the credentials aren't there, look in the devices documentation.

If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) installed the wireless router or gateway, they might have left you a setup sheet which may have the credentials.

3. Connect Wi-Fi

1. Select System Settings.
   

1. Select Internet.
   

1. Select Connect to the Internet.
   

1. Select your Wi-Fi network name.
   

1. Enter your password, then select OK.
   

1. Your Wii U will test the connection.
   

1. When the test is successful, you'll see the green check marks at the top. Select OK.
   

1. Finally, you'll be asked if you want this to be your default connection; the one you use most of the time. Select Set.
   

4. Check Other Devices

To help troubleshoot the problem we should check if other devices can connect to the wireless network.

5. Check Environment

If other wireless devices are connected to the network and functioning properly, chances are the router is OK. It's possible there is an environmental issue. Do you have a portable wireless device (Smart Phone, Tablet, Laptop, etc.) that you can put in the same area to test and see if that device's wireless connection still functions as intended in that location?

6. Power cycle

If you haven't already, please try power cycling the device you're working with. To do so, simply turn it off, wait 30 seconds and turn it back on again.

7. Incompatible Routers

Routers in 5GHz only mode are not compatible with the Nintendo Wii U.

• The vast majority of routers operate on 2.4GHz. The Nintendo Wii U operates on 802.11 b/g/n 2.4GHz networks and won't be able to find your network if your router is set to operate in 5GHz only mode.
• If you are having issues connecting, check with your router's documentation to verify you are not using it in 5GHz only mode.

8. What's next?

9. Range Check

The device needs to be within a reasonable range of the router in order to connect and have the best connection speeds.

• In general, in most homes, you can be up to 30 feet from your router for a decent connection.
• From 30' to 50' away, the speeds will be slower, and may drop occasionally, but it should be usable.
• Greater than 50' away, and the signal will most likely be too weak to overcome interference. The speeds will be slow, and the connection may be sporadic.

The above numbers are approximates only. Optimal range may vary based on router make and model.

10. What's next?

11. Relocate Router Check

Your router may need to be relocated to a more centralized location in order to provide better coverage for all your devices.

Good Placement

Bad Placement

12. Router Relocation

Since this appears to be a range issue that can be resolved by putting the router in closer proximity to the device's intended use area, we recommend moving the router to a more centralized location.

13. Range Extender

If wireless signal is not reaching your device, and relocating your router or the device itself to be in closer proximity is not possible or doesn't resolve the issue, a great way to boost wireless signal without replacing existing equipment is to acquire and install a range extender. Range extenders work with your existing wireless router as a type of wireless repeater used to expand the reach of wireless signal in your home.

14. What's next?