Nintendo Switch: set up parental controls - how it works

Nintendo's new Switch console offers exemplary parental controls. It works either via the app or through the console menu. We show you how to activate protection:

Nintendo Switch: parental controls via app

The advantages of the app are obvious. You can monitor the console and make settings from your smartphone.

1. Create a Nintendo Account if you don't already have one and link it to your Nintendo Switch.
2. Download the free app "Nintendo Switch Age Restrictions" from the App Store or the Play Store and link your Nintendo Account with the app.
3. Go to the system settings.
4. Select "Age Restrictions"
5. Select "Set via smart device".
6. Now enter the six-digit registration code that is displayed in the app.
7. Now link your Nintendo Switch with the app and carry out the further setup on the smart device.

Nintendo Switch: Advantages of parental controls via app

The app offers some advantages that are not available with parental controls via console:

1. It offers daily and monthly overviews of game activities.
2. It notifies you via push notifications directly on your smartphone.
3. It offers a "bedtime alarm".
4. You can easily manage your Nintendo Account through the app.

Nintendo Switch: child lock via console menu

If you don't have a smartphone or don't need the extensive control via app, you can also set up parental controls in the traditional way directly on the console and protect them with a password. That's how it's done:

1. Go to the system settings.
2. Go to Age Restrictions> Set From This Console> Restriction Category.
3. Now you can choose between the predefined profiles "Adolescents", "Children" or "Infants". Alternatively, you can also create your own user-defined profile.
4. Finally, set a pin to protect the facility.

Also learn how to protect your Nintendo Switch from scratches on the display. We will show it in the next practical tip.