Fix Nintendo Switch Error 2123-1502 (Download Loop)

Updated: 11/29/2025

You just bought a new game on the eShop. You watch the download bar start, put the console to sleep, and come back an hour later expecting to play. Instead, you see a red 'X' and the message: 'Error Code: 2123-1502'. You click Retry, it spins for a second, and fails again. This is the infamous 'Sleep Mode' bug that has plagued the Switch since firmware 12.0.0. It happens when the console tries to maintain a handshake with the Nintendo server while entering a low-power state.

Method 1: The 'Sleep' Spam Trick

This method sounds ridiculous, but it is the most widely confirmed fix on Reddit. You have to catch the download 'awake'.

Step 1: Start Download

Click Continue or Retry on the download.

Step 2: Immediate Sleep

The moment the download bar appears (before the error pops up), press the physical Power Button once to put the Switch to sleep.

Step 3: Wake and Repeat

Wait 5 seconds. Press the Power Button to wake it up. The download should progress a few percent. Repeat this process until the download stabilizes or finishes.

Method 2: Clear Cache (Maintenance Mode)

If the download is corrupted, you need to wipe the temporary data partition.

Step 1: Turn Off

Hold the power button for 3 seconds -> Power Options -> Turn Off.

Step 2: Enter Maintenance Mode

Hold Volume Up + Volume Down AND the Power Button simultaneously. Keep holding until you see a white menu.

Step 3: Initialize Without Deleting Save Data

Select 'Initialize Console Without Deleting Save Data'. This resets the OS files but keeps your game saves and screenshots safe. This clears the corrupted DNS cache blocking the download.

Method 3: Change DNS Settings

Nintendo's default servers sometimes struggle with specific ISP routing.

• Go to System Settings > Internet > Internet Settings.
• Select your WiFi network > Change Settings.
• Set DNS Settings to Manual.
• Primary DNS: 8.8.8.8
• Secondary DNS: 8.8.4.4