How to Use NX-Shell to Manage Files on Your Nintendo Switch

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Managing files on your Nintendo Switch doesn’t have to be a hassle. With NX-Shell, a powerful homebrew file manager, you can browse, copy, move, and organize your files directly on your console. In this guide, we’ll show you how to install and use NX-Shell to take control of your file system without needing a PC.

What is NX-Shell?

NX-Shell is a homebrew file manager for the Nintendo Switch, inspired by the 3DS’s file explorer. It allows you to access your SD card and manage files directly on your console. With NX-Shell, you can:

• Browse and open files on your SD card.
• Copy, move, rename, or delete files and folders.
• Extract ZIP and RAR archives.
• Play media files like MP3s and view images.

What You’ll Need

To use NX-Shell on your Nintendo Switch, you’ll need:

• A Nintendo Switch running Atmosphere CFW. Need help setting it up? Check out our guide on howtodoit.site.
• An SD card with NX-Shell installed.
• The NX-Shell app, available from the official GitHub page.

Step 1: Install NX-Shell

Follow these steps to install NX-Shell on your Nintendo Switch:

1. Download the latest version of NX-Shell from the GitHub page.
2. Extract the downloaded ZIP file on your PC.
3. Copy the NX-Shell.nro file to the switch folder on your SD card.
4. Safely eject the SD card and insert it into your Nintendo Switch.
5. Boot into Atmosphere CFW and launch the Homebrew Menu by holding R while opening an app like Album.
6. Locate and launch NX-Shell from the Homebrew Menu.

Step 2: Browse Your Files

Once NX-Shell is running, you can browse your SD card’s file system:

1. Use the D-pad or left joystick to navigate through folders and files.
2. Press A to open a file or folder.
3. Use B to go back to the previous folder.

Tip: NX-Shell supports multiple file types, so you can preview text files, play music, or view images directly in the app.

Step 3: Manage Your Files

NX-Shell makes it easy to organize your files. Here’s how to perform basic file operations:

• Copy: Highlight a file, press X, and select the destination folder to copy it.
• Move: Highlight a file, press Y, and select the destination folder to move it.
• Rename: Highlight a file, press –, and enter the new name.
• Delete: Highlight a file or folder, press + , and confirm to delete it.

Tip: Be cautious when deleting system files to avoid issues with your Switch.

Step 4: Extract Archives

NX-Shell can extract ZIP and RAR files, making it easy to manage compressed archives:

1. Select the archive file using the D-pad or joystick.
2. Press A to open the options menu and choose “Extract.”
3. Select the destination folder for the extracted files and press A to confirm.

Tip: Extract game mods or other large files directly on your Switch without using a PC.

Step 5: Play Media Files

NX-Shell includes built-in support for media playback. Here’s how to use it:

• Music: Select an MP3 file and press A to play it. Use the on-screen controls to pause, skip, or adjust the volume.
• Images: Select a JPG or PNG file to view it in fullscreen mode.

Tip: Use NX-Shell as a quick and easy media player on your Switch.

Tips for Using NX-Shell

• Organize Your Files: Create folders to keep ROMs, homebrew apps, and saves organized.
• Backup Important Files: Before making changes, back up your files to avoid accidental data loss.
• Avoid System Files: Stick to managing user files to prevent corrupting your Switch’s OS.

Final Thoughts

NX-Shell is a powerful file manager that makes it easy to organize and manage files directly on your Nintendo Switch. Whether you’re extracting game mods, playing media, or renaming files, NX-Shell streamlines file management for homebrew users. For more homebrew tips and guides, visit howtodoit.site and make the most of your Switch!