Go on the Internet on Your Nintendo Wii

The Wii game console from Nintendo can connect to the Internet over a broadband connection for a variety of experiences, including: Web browsing, downloads, on-line chat and visiting virtually any on-line site including Flash 7 and 8 sites. The easiest way to connect to the Internet is to use your existing wireless high speed connection.

Steps

Configuring Your Console

  1. Be sure that your Internet connection is running smoothly and the green lights are all up. If you have a Nintendo Wi-Fi connector, you need to have the software installed and your computer connected to the Internet.
  2. Turn on your Wii.
  3. Select Wii Options, which is located on the bottom left of the screen. This is the button with the Wii logo.
  4. Select Wii Settings.
  5. Click forward to the second menu screen using the blue arrow to the right.
  6. Select Internet.
  7. Select Connection Settings.
  8. Choose an open connection, indicated by the word: "none".
  9. Choose a wireless connection.
  10. Determine the best option for you: Manual configuration or Search for an Access Point.
  11. On Search for an Access Point, your Wii will search for a wireless network to connect to and will display a list of available networks. Networks identified with a closed padlock require authentication to join.
  12. Select your network.
    • If your connection signal appears yellow or red, the stability or strength of the connection is not strong enough for the Wii's Internet needs. If possible, remove any obstacles between the Wii console and the Access Point or change the channel on your router to avoid interference.
    • If your wireless access point does not show up when you choose, Search for An Access Point, your router may have Broadcasting set to "No" or "Disable." Some routers also refer to this security as "Stealth" mode. You can either change your broadcast setting to "Yes" or "Enable," or you can manually enter the SSID in the manual setup screen of your Wii console.
  13. Select Save and OK.
  14. Select OK on the next screen and the Wii will preform an automatic connection test.
  15. Wait for the Wii to connect and download any needed updates.

Browsing the Internet

  1. Go to the Wii Shop Channel and download the Internet Channel, which is free.
  2. Select "Internet Channel" from the block on the main screen and follow the instructions to browse the Internet. Feel free to go on any site you want, like Facebook or Twitter.

Tips

  • Read the Nintendo online instructions for more information including troubleshooting.
  • Use a compatible wireless router by checking your router against the list below.
  • Use the Wii LAN Adapter to physically connect your Wii to a local network.
  • If your Nintendo Wi-Fi USB connector isn't working well and you have a laptop in your house, and not a wireless router, consider getting one. They tend to work a lot better then the USB connectors.
  • Download other channels to access other services.
  • Some wireless routers have been shown to have compatibility issues with the Wii [see External Links below]. If you have a wireless connection using an incompatible access point try the Nintendo Wi-Fi USB Connector, available at their on-line store.
  • If you get an error code, use the Nintendo on-line tool to determine the source of your connection problem.
  • If it isn't working for a bit, wait five or ten minutes then try again.
  • The WiiConnect24 Service allowed your console to connect to the Internet all the time, downloading in the background or when the console is not in use. It was discontinued on June 28, 2013.
  • Check the Wii message boards for more help.
  • If your connection to the Internet is complex and/or you have a fixed IP address you may need to use the manual connection settings; this requires a great deal of information from your ISP. The link below connects to the Nintendo page that details manual configuration step by step.
  • Try to keep your Wii close to the connection source so it won't disconnect randomly. If you can have it closer, do it.
  • If you are not getting a connection, try moving closer to your access point. Then call Nintendo at 1-800-255-3700 if you still need help.

Things You'll Need

  • Wi-Fi connection
  • Nintendo Wii
  • Television
  • Internet connection
  • Wii Remote

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