Does Nintendo 3DS Need Internet During Entire System Transfer?

No. The 3DS system transfer uses a local peer-to-peer wireless connection between the two consoles. The internet is only required for the initial setup on the target (new) 3DS—not during the actual data migration.

Step-by-Step

1. Both 3DS units: fully charged or plugged in.
2. On target (new) 3DS: System Settings → Other Settings → System Transfer → “Receive from Nintendo 3DS.”
3. It will prompt to connect to internet **once** to verify Nintendo Network ID / eShop license.
4. After that, disconnect from Wi-Fi if you want.
5. On source (old) 3DS: Same menu → “Send to Nintendo 3DS.”
6. The two consoles find each other via local wireless (keep them < 30 cm apart).
7. Transfer begins: software, saves, SD card data, NNID, Play Coins, StreetPass data.
8. Do not interrupt. Can take 10 min – 2+ hours depending on SD card size.

Key Points

• No internet needed during the actual copy.
• Both consoles must be on the same firmware version (update first if needed).
• SD card from source must be moved physically to target after transfer (or use a PC to copy Nintendo 3DS folder).