The server communication error appears on your Nintendo Switch because the console is unable to connect to the internet or because of issues with DNS server. Slow internet or week Wi-Fi signal may also be the cause of this issue.
The full error message reads “A server communication error has occured. Please try again later.” Sometimes, it is also accompanied by error code 2137-8056. Most users get this error when trying to play Splatoon 3 or Mario Kart 8 online.
You can fix this error by restarting your console, installing software updates, moving closer to your Wi-Fi router, rebooting the router, or testing the Switch network settings.
Before you begin troubleshooting…
It is also possible that the issue is not at your end, but due to Nintendo servers’ downtime. To confirm this possibility, visit Nintendo server status page.
If everything is normal at Nintendo’s end, you will see “All servers are operating normally” message under Online Server Status.
If the server is experiencing downtime or undergoing maintenance, it will be explained there. In that case, your only option is to wait until the issue is resolved.
If Nintendo servers are online, but you are still having trouble connecting your Switch to internet due to server communication error, try these troubleshooting steps:
Restart your Console
The first troubleshooting step is to restart your Switch. Not sure how to restart your Switch? Follow these steps:
- Press and hold the Power button on your Nintendo Switch for 5 seconds until a menu appears.
- Select Power Options and then choose Restart.
If you can’t see the Power Options menu, press and hold the Power button for 15 seconds to force shutdown your console and then turn it On again.
Once your Switch reboots, see if the server communication is gone. If it persists, move on to next method.
Install Software Updates
Outdated software can cause random bugs and glitches, such as the server communication error.
So, if you haven’t updated your Nintendo Switch for a quite long time, there is a possibility that internet connectivity issue is due to software.
To update your Nintendo Switch, open System Settings. Select System Update in the right sidebar.
If any new update is available, it will be installed.
Move Close to your Wi-Fi Router
Another cause of this server communication error on Nintendo Switch is is weak Wi-Fi signal strength.
Even if the Wi-Fi signals seem fine on your Switch, try moving it close to the router.
Try running a speed test on your mobile phone at same location and see if the download and upload speeds are normal.
Restart your Wi-Fi Router
To restart your Wi-Fi router, simply disconnect it from the power source. Plug it back in after 1 to 2 minutes.
Wait for few moments until your router connects to the internet.
Now connect your Switch to the Wi-Fi and check it goes online now without any error.
Check your Switch Network Settings
Nintendo Switch also has a built-in feature that lets you test your internet connection and advise troubleshooting steps. Here’s how to access it:
- Open Settings from Home.
- Select Internet.
- There, you will see Test Connection button. Select it so your console can run a connection test.
If everything is alright, you will see “Connection test was successful message” along with your internet speed details.
For optimal performance and experience, download speed below 7 Mbps can cause troubles.
I hope one of these troubleshooting tips will work for you to get your Switch back online.
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to me.
