The Nintendo Switch is arguably one of the best handhelds released, but when you look at it in 2025, you will definitely feel this handheld has reached its life cycle. Compared to handhelds that are available now that offer a Windows PC experience in the form factor of a Switch, it becomes harder to justify its existence. Yes, the exclusive library of games is a solid reason, but this can’t overshadow the fact that the handheld boasts very old hardware. Anyway, if you are one of the OG gamers who have had a Nintendo Switch for a long time or you have gotten one recently, chances are that you have encountered the Error Code 2142-0224. Well, this isn’t a game-specific error or a system error. In fact, this error occurs when you try to link the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls app to a Nintendo Switch family system. If you are indeed trying to do the same and are encountering the issue, consider reading this guide, as we have shared some workarounds to help you fix it.
If you are a parent, you know how important it is to use parental controls on the Switch to let your kid access the device. With parental controls enabled, you can monitor what games your kid has been playing, how much is the screen time, and many such details. However, to access this data, you will need to link the application (Nintendo Switch Parental Controls) to your Switch. The error occurs right when you try to link the console to the application. So, to fix it, we have shared a few workarounds.
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Nintendo Switch Error Code 2142-0224: Is there any fix yet
Well, this error code has been acknowledged by the official Nintendo team and they even have a dedicated page for this. But, before we get to the workarounds, here are the required steps you need to take to link the console to the application:
- First, access your smartphone, go to the PlayStore (Android) or AppStore (iOS), and download the Nintendo Switch Parental Controls application.
- After this, launch the application and then select the Start button.
- Next, select the Sign In/Create Account option and sign in with a Nintendo Switch account (the user has to be 18+).
- After signing in, click on Next. Once you do this, a Registration Code will appear on the application. You will need to enter this code on your Switch.
- To do this, access the Switch, select System Settings from the HOME Menu, and then Parental Controls. Now, select the Parental Controls Settings option and then the “I have the app installed. What’s next?.” option.
- After this, you will be asked to enter the code. Enter the code and confirm the entry.
- Select Register, and then you are all set.
However, if after pressing the Register button, the Switch throws the Error Code 2142-0224, consider trying these workarounds out:
Restart the Switch
Consider a quick restart of the Switch and then repeat the process. You don’t need to get a new registration code. Just access the Parental Settings on the Switch to enter the code and check whether the issue persists.
Check Internet
Another thing you need to check is the internet connection in use. Consider switching to a different network to rule out the possibility of this issue’s occurrence due to the network connection.
Update the Switch
This is an important step that has been recommended by the official Nintendo Switch team as well. So, head over to the Settings menu of the Switch and check for any recent updates for it. If you haven’t updated the system for a long time, well, now it’s time to do so.
Try again after some time
Well, if none of the workarounds have been of any help, then all you can do is wait for some time and then try the same steps again.
With that said, these are all the potential fixes you can try to get rid of the error code 2142-0224 on your Nintendo Switch. We hope that you find this guide informative. If you did, consider visiting DigiStatement regularly for more such interesting reads on all things gaming.
