Should You Downgrade Nintendo Switch Firmware Atmosphere?

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Introduction to Downgrading Nintendo Switch Firmware

Thinking of downgrading your Nintendo Switch to an older version? Worry not, you’re not the only one. Downgrading is a well-loved choice among gamers who desire more control, especially when using Atmosphere Switch homebrew or custom features. Here in this tutorial, you’ll learn how to do it safely, and how to avoid common mistakes.

We’ll take you through the essentials you must know, what you should prepare, and how the downgrade process is done step by step. Let’s personalize your Switch setup!/

Learning About Firmware Downgrading

Firmware downgrading refers to the installation of an older version of the system software of the Switch. It is commonly executed to restore compatibility with custom firmware, homebrew applications, or even some game mods. Certain versions simply work better with applications like Atmosphere Switch.

The technique is essentially replacing the current system firmware with an older version. Don’t panic it’s more complex-sounding than it is. With a little preparation and the proper tools, it’s entirely feasible to do at home.

What You Need Before Downgrading with Atmosphere

Let’s get all you’ll require before we jump into the process itself. Not every Nintendo Switch console can be fully downgraded, so you should have some knowledge about whether your model can or not. You’ll also need the appropriate files and tools to have everything running neatly and securely. This section’s your prep guide!

Skipping any of these steps can lead to errors later, so take your time. The right setup will make your downgrade journey way easier and way less stressful.

Supported Switch Models// and Compatibility

Not every Switch is created equal when it comes to firmware downgrades. You’ll need an unpatched (vulnerable) unit these are mostly older models made before mid-2018.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Unpatched V1 models: Fully compatible
Patched V1 models: Not downgrade-friendly
Switch Lite & OLED: Not supported with Atmosphere for downgrading

You can check your serial number online to confirm compatibility. Trust me, it’s better to double-check before going on!

Tools and Files Needed (Hekate, Atmosphere, Firmware files, etc.)

Okay, here is your toolkit of choice:

*Hekate: The bootloader that helps with managing backups and custom firmware.

*Atmosphere: Your go-to custom firmware (aka CFW).

*Firmware Files: The older firmware you want to downgrade to.

*Daybreak or ChoiDujourNX: Used for manually installing the firmware.

*TegraRcmGUI or similar payload injector: RCM and Hekate launch boots.

*SD Card: Minimum 32GB, with format FAT32 or exFAT.

Keep all the latest stuff updated even if you’re new to updating Atmosphere Switch, it’s worth using the latest tools so you don’t get bugs.

Backing Up Your NAND and Keys

It is not optional to backup your NAND (your system’s full memory) and keys. It is your backup of last resort in case something goes horribly wrong.

You will do this with Hekate:

*Boot into Hekate > Tools > Backup eMMC > Full NAND

*Backup your prod.keys and boot0/boot1 as well for full recovery

Store these safely cloud storage, external drives, whatever you most rely on. If ever you need to restore, these files will save your Switch!

Preparing Your Nintendo Switch for Downgrade

Ready to get your hands dirty? Let’s start getting your Switch ready. This phase is all about installing the software you’ve downloaded and getting your system ready for the downgrade procedure. A bit of planning ahead equals fewer headaches down the road.

We’ll also back up any essential game data or saves so nothing has to be put on the chopping block.

Setting Up kate and Atmosphere

Now’s the moment to get Atmosphere and Hekate loaded onto your SD card. Here’s what you do:

Copy the bootloader and Atmosphere folders to the SD root
Add payload.bin (most likely Hekate) to your payload injector
Use TegraRcmGUI or another injector to boot into Hekate

After you’re in Hekate, make sure everything loads properly. This setup will be useful when you’re going to need to update Atmosphere Switch in the future.

Backing Up Important Data Safely

Save your game saves, screenshots, and important files before you change anything. You can save them with:

Checkpoint (homebrew software) to save game saves
A computer to manually backup your files from your SD card
Losing your saved data is the worst, so backing up now avoids a lot of regret later.

Checking Current Firmware Version

Last step before downgrading check your firmware version. Go to:

After all this is done, you are all set and ready to downgrade with confidence!

You’re nearly there! But hold on a second before you go forward as you double check that you have the right firmware to downgrade. Making mistakes will lead to mistakes or even worse, soft bricks. Eeek! Don’t worry though. We have you covered!

You’ll get to obtain firmware files from good sources and go through all these twice before you proceed. It’s like doubling knot your shoelaces for a run. It is just commonsensical.

Good Sources to Get Firmware Files

Obtaining firmware online is difficult, but the trick is to stick with known and trustworthy websites. Attempt to look at:

Firmware files within trusted Switch modding forums (like GitHub or GBAtemp threads)
Utilize a known SHA256 hash to verify your download
Do not download from suspicious, ad-ridden websites it’s not worth it

Once downloaded, Atmosphere Switch, unzip the firmware and check that all folders and files are intact. It must include a contents folder, .ini files, and .nca files depending on your firmware version.

Verifying Firmware Integrity

Try this fast test to avoid heartbreak: verify the file hash with a SHA256 tool on your system. Most firmware vendors will release a hash to compare with. Why this matters: buggy or absent firmware = possible boot issues. A few seconds of checking could save you hours of debugging. Be smart, don’t skip it!

Choosing a Rocksolid Old Version

Lost on which version to select? Choose a firmware version that works with your current version of Atmosphere Switch. Some users employ versions like:

10.0.4 for stable homebrew
11.x if you require a good balance of features and compatibility

Just make sure it’s still supported, especially if you’re planning to subsequently update Atmosphere Switch without issues. Don’t take it too far back older firmware can interfere with newer homebrew apps.

Installing the Firmware using Atmosphere

Okay, here’s where it gets thrilling! With all your prep done, it’s time to install onto your Switch the older firmware. Don’t worry it sounds intimidating, but the process is actually relatively simple if you follow carefully.

Booting into Custom Firmware Safely

Make sure your SD card is loaded with all the right files Atmosphere, the firmware folder, and your bootloader files.

Here’s how to boot safely:

Power off your Switch
Enter RCM mode using a jig or volume button combo
Use TegraRcmGUI to send the Hekate payload
In Hekate, select Launch > Atmosphere

Now you’re on custom firmware yay! If it boots okay, you’re good to go to the next step.

With Daybreak or ChoiDujourNX for Installation

Now we’re going to install the firmware. Most users prefer to use Daybreak, which is part of Atmosphere and plays absolutely fine with current setups.

Here’s a quick rundown:

Daybreak: Safer, supported officially within Atmosphere
ChoiDujourNX: Older method, but still used by some with older setups

With Daybreak:

Open the Homebrew Menu
Run Daybreak
Locate your firmware folder and follow on-screen instructions
Choose Preserve Settings if you are asked to

When it installs, your Switch will reboot automatically with the new (older!) firmware.

Step-by-Step Downgrade Process

Let’s break it down neatly:

Boot into RCM mode and launch Hekate
Enter Atmosphere Switch from the boot menu
Launch Daybreak from the Homebrew Menu
Choose the firmware version you’ve downloaded
Begin the install and save settings if asked

Let the system reboot

Post-Downgrade Setup and Verification

Well done you’re finished! ???? Your Switch is on an older firmware now. But don’t just jump back into gaming or modding just yet. Let’s make sure everything is working as it should be. A quick post-check can catch any tiny issues before they become big problems.

You will also need to get your homebrew setup running once more so you can reap all the benefits of your custom firmware again. Let’s do this!

Confirming the Downgrade Was Successful

Navigate System Settings > System > Current Version

Check that the version is the one you installed

If everything checks out and your Switch boots up normally into Atmosphere Switch, you’re good to go! You can also reopen Daybreak once more to double-check installation data.

Reinstalling Homebrew Applications

After a downgrade, homebrew apps might not work until you reinstall or update them. Here is how to restore them:

Re-download your favorite homebrew apps
Place them inside the switch folder on your SD card
Run them from the Homebrew Menu

Make sure you also update Atmosphere Switch if needed so your setup is still updated and bug-free.

System Stability Checks After Downgrade

Try your system out a bit! Try homebrew launching, playing games, and checking for slowdown or crashing.

Things to test:

Launch multiple apps
Test Wi-Fi (if supported)
Place the Switch in sleep mode, then wake it up

If everything is good, you’re all set. If not, we’ll fix it next!

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Occasionally, things don’t work out as planned, and that’s okay! Most downgrade hiccup issues have a simple resolution. Let’s go through the most typical ones and how to fix them.

Black Screen or Boot Loop Solutions

Oh no black screen? Don’t panic! Here’s what to do:

Reboot into RCM mode and restart Hekate
Make sure your bootloader and Atmosphere files are current
Restore your boot0/boot1 files from your backup if needed

This usually resolves things without requiring a full restore.

Firmware Mismatch Errors

Getting errors like “Invalid Fuses” or “Failed to boot firmware”? You probably skipped a step or used a wrong version.

Do this:

Check your firmware is compatible with your Atmosphere version
If needed, update Atmosphere Switch to a version compatible with your current firmware
Always match tools to what firmware you’re on it saves loads of issues.

Restoring from NAND Backup if Necessary

Your full NAND backup is still your best friend. As a last resort, here’s what to do to restore:

Boot into Hekate > Tools > Restore eMMC
Select your full backup files

Be extremely careful and pay attention to the instructions

It will take a while, but it will get your Switch back to where it was last good. Never, ever omit creating a backup honestly, it’s a lifesaver.

Staying Safe After Downgrading

Now that your Switch is securely downgraded, it’s time to keep it safe! ????️ Nintendo doesn’t like modded consoles very much, so it’s really important to protect your system from unwanted updates or worse, bans.

The good news is that with some easy settings and smart habits, you can enjoy all the goodness of Atmosphere Switch without getting banned. Let’s make sure your setup remains safe and in top condition!

Avoiding Nintendo Bans

Nintendo will detect tampered systems when they go online. To lower your risk of a ban:

*Use Airplane Mode or disable Wi-Fi manually

*NEVER access Nintendo servers with custom firmware

*Avoid connecting to eShop or syncing account

Pro tip: Some users create a second, offline-only emuNAND for homebrew alone. It’s an extra precaution if you wish to be extra cautious.

Disabling Auto Updates

Auto updates can reverse all your efforts by updating your firmware once more no thank you!

Here’s how to prevent them:

*Use Incognito homebrew utility to delete DNS data

*Set DNS to a custom setting (such as 90DNS or Altema) to block Nintendo’s update servers

*Disable System Update in Hekate settings if possible

These easy steps secure your firmware and your downgrade.

Recommended Settings for Atmosphere Users

To make things stable and fun, the following Atmosphere settings should be enabled:

Turn on “nosigchk” for running unsigned code (like homebrew)

*Use Auto boot to CFW in Hekate so your Switch will automatically boot into Atmosphere

*Keep your bootloader files up to date, especially if you plan to update Atmosphere Switch in the future

*Bookmark where future Atmosphere builds are downloaded, so you’re ready when updating is necessary!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is downgrading Nintendo Switch firmware safe with Atmosphere?

Yes, it is safe if done right. Always have a NAND and key backup, and use proven tools like Hekate and Daybreak.

Can I downgrade any Nintendo Switch model?

Nope! Downgrades to unpatched V1s only. Switch Lite and OLED are not supported by this process.

What files will I need for a successful downgrade?

You’ll need:

*Atmosphere CFW

*Hekate bootloader

*Daybreak or ChoiDujourNX

*The correct firmware package

These are required for a smooth down-grade.

Will I lose my saved game data when downgrading?

Nope, not if you back up your NAND and save data first. You can also use tools, such as Checkpoint, to back up individual saves of game saves.

Can I downgrade without a PC?

Sorry, no. A PC is needed to push payloads, move files and in the case of using TegraRcmGUI, to run it.

Will Nintendo ban my Switch after downgrading?

There’s always a risk. In order to stay safe, use Airplane Mode, don’t use online features, and install stealth software like Incognito.

What is the best firmware version to downgrade to?

It depends on your configuration, but most would be 10.x or 11.x for stability and full support with Atmosphere Switch.

Can I upgrade back later if needed?

Yes, you may update at any time. Just ensure that you apply safe practices and update Atmosphere Switch to reflect your new firmware.

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How to Downgrade Nintendo Switch Firmware with Atmosphere