Nintendo of America

Slow Download Times, Hangs During Updates, or Errors Received While Connecting

If you are experiencing slow download times, or are receiving errors while connecting, check the following:

Most Common:                                        

1. Change the channel that your router broadcasts on.
   By default, most routers broadcast on channel 6. Change your router's channel setting to 1 or 11, as those do not overlap with other channels. Router "Channel" settings are typically found in the "Wireless Settings" area of your wireless router's setup utility. For information on accessing your router's settings, click here to select the brand name and model number of your router (if available), or consult the owner's manual for your router.
2. Are you receiving an Error Code?
   If you are getting a five or six-digit error code displayed when you try to connect your Wii console online, click here to use our error code lookup tool. We have specific troubleshooting for individual codes that may help solve the issue you are experiencing.
> Go to Error Code Lookup

Additional Suggestions:                        

3. Check the location of your router.
   Move your router away from walls and off the floor and try to place it in a central location in your home. Also, keep it away from metal objects such as metal filing cabinets which can cause interference.
4. Check for interference.
   There are two types of interference that can cause problems with your Wireless connection:
   
   1. Wireless interference from other Wireless routers in your area. Did you see several network names (SSIDs) come up when you used Search for an Access Point? This could indicate a lot of WiFi activity in your vicinity that can cause interference.
      
   2. Noise from Cordless devices (cordless phones), or wireless electronics (wireless keyboards, headphones, cell phones), especially those using the 2.4GHz frequency, can interfere with your wireless signal. In addition, older microwave models can cause wireless interference.

   To minimize interference try the following:

   • Do not use other wireless/cordless devices when trying to get online with your Wii console. Also, avoid electronics that use the 2.4GHz frequency, instead look for devices that use the 5.8GHz or 900MHz frequencies.
   • Change the channel on your router. By default most routers broadcast on channel 6. Change the channel setting to 1 or 11, as those do not overlap with other channels. Router "Channel" settings are typically found in the "Wireless Settings" area of your wireless router's setup utility. For information on accessing your router's settings, click here to select the brand name and model number of your router (if available).

5. Upgrade to a hi-gain antenna, and/or add a Wireless repeater.
   If your wireless network signal is weak, you can add a Hi-gain antenna that focuses the signal into one direction. This allows you to aim the signal directly in the direction of the Wii. A wireless repeater extends the wireless range. Both devices can boost your signal strength and allow the signal to cut through interference and noise more effectively. Most retailers that sell Wireless routers will also have these accessories available.
6. Is your router and/or ISP compatible with the Wii?
   In working with dozens of different routers, we have determined that some routers or Internet Service Providers may not be compatible with the Wii console's online features. Please click here to find out more.