How to Mod Your Nintendo Switch 18.1 (BEGINNER FRIENDLY)

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of modding your Nintendo Switch on firmware version 18.1. This beginner-friendly approach will ensure you can easily follow along, even if you have no prior experience with modding. By the end of this tutorial, you will have your Nintendo Switch set up for homebrew applications and custom firmware.

Step 1: Gather Requirements

Before you start, make sure you have the following equipment and software:

Equipment Needed

• RCM Jig (optional but recommended)
• USB-C cable
• Micro SD card (at least 64GB recommended)
• Micro SD card adapter/reader

Software Links

• Check if your Switch is patched: ismyswitchpatched.com
• EaseUS Partition Manager: easeus.com
• TegraRCM: TegraRcmGUI Releases
• Atmosphere: Atmosphere Releases
• Hekate: Hekate Releases
• Sig Patches: sigmapatches.su

Step 2: Verify Your Switch Model

• Visit ismyswitchpatched.com to check if your Switch is compatible for modding. This is crucial as patched consoles may not support the modding process.

Step 3: Download Required Mods

• Download the following files:
  • Atmosphere
  • Hekate
  • TegraRCM
  • Sig Patches
• Ensure you save these files in an easily accessible location.

Step 4: Prepare Your Micro SD Card

1. Insert your Micro SD card into your computer.
2. Open EaseUS Partition Manager and format the Micro SD card to FAT32.
3. Create a new partition and ensure it is labeled correctly.

Step 5: Install TegraRCM

1. Download TegraRCM from the provided link.
2. Install the software on your computer by following the on-screen instructions.
3. Open TegraRCM once the installation is complete.

Step 6: Inject Payload

1. Connect your Nintendo Switch to the computer using the USB-C cable.
2. Power off your Switch completely.
3. Insert the RCM Jig into the right Joy-Con rail (if applicable).
4. Open TegraRCM and select the payload file for Hekate.
5. Click on the “Inject Payload” button.

Step 7: Navigate Hekate Home Menu

• After injecting the payload, you will enter the Hekate menu. Here, you can manage your modding options and settings.

Step 8: Create EmuMMC

1. In the Hekate menu, find the option to create an EmuMMC.
2. Follow the prompts to set up your EmuMMC, which allows you to run custom firmware without affecting your stock firmware.

Step 9: Launch Custom Firmware

1. Once EmuMMC is created, select the option to launch Atmosphere from the Hekate menu.
2. Wait for the custom firmware to load.

Step 10: Verify Mods Installation

• After booting into Atmosphere, navigate to the home screen and check for the presence of homebrew applications to confirm that your mods are successfully installed.

Conclusion

You have successfully modded your Nintendo Switch on firmware 18.1! Remember to keep your mods updated and follow best practices to avoid any issues. As a next step, explore different homebrew applications and enjoy the expanded capabilities of your device. If you encounter any issues, revisit the steps or consult the resources provided in this tutorial.