A Switch 2 firmware update may have finally fixed Ethernet ports on the console's dock

One major perk of the Nintendo Switch 2 dock is its Ethernet port. Gamers with spotty WiFi coverage can avoid dropped connections at critical gameplay moments. Unfortunately, until recently, many fans found wired internet just as unreliable. It seems that a Switch 2 firmware update has addressed the annoyance, at least for most owners.

How the Switch 2 update was a breakthrough

The 21.1.0 update went live in November, but it didn’t mention the ongoing issue. Also, because the Ethernet port problems were intermittent, gamers have had more time to test the Switch 2 dock.

Optimistic fans first began reporting success not long after the new firmware arrived. On a subreddit for the console, users explained that the corded connection suddenly started working. Other gamers had to power cycle the system before the update proved beneficial.

More recently, other posters have confirmed that the fix was more than just temporary. That said, there are still a small number of unlucky souls who must rely on the less reliable wireless option. Those individuals may need to keep pestering Nintendo support.

Nintendo never explained its wonky Switch 2 dock

To the company’s credit, it frequently offered to replace the accessory under warranty. Yet, losing the convenience of playing games on TVs for weeks wasn’t the most ideal outcome. Even worse, the replacement hardware often exhibited the same failures. Another, more unexpected suggestion was to plug a smartphone into the dock with a USB-C cable. However, that solution proved to be hit-or-miss.

What caused the misbehaving Ethernet port remains a matter for debate. Some gamers blamed a faulty integrated Realtek chip for the aggravation. The 21.1.0 Switch 2 firmware may have discovered a workaround for any hardware deficiencies.

Owners of the handheld should be aware that some official updates have drawbacks. The same patch also blocked some third-party Switch 2 docks. The company denied intentionally targeting the accessory makers, with some countering with their own revised firmware.