Fix Wii Error 86420 (Cannot Connect to Friends)

Error 86420 = Wii cannot reach Nintendo servers. Usually local network or Nintendo-side issue.

Diagnose

1. Test internet on phone/PC — if down, fix ISP/router first
2. Check Nintendo Network Status — server maintenance?

Fixes (Order: Easiest → Deepest)

1. Power cycle: Unplug Wii + router + modem 60s → plug modem → router → Wii
2. Wi-Fi signal: Move Wii closer to router; remove obstacles; 2.4 GHz only (Wii doesn't support 5 GHz)
3. Channel: Router on 1, 6, or 11 (least overlap)
4. DNS: Wii Settings → Internet → Connection Settings → Change Settings → Auto-obtain DNS → No → Primary: 8.8.8.8, Secondary: 8.8.4.4 (Google)
5. MTU: Set to 1500 (Wii Settings → Internet → Connection Settings → MTU)
6. Wired test: USB-Ethernet adapter (Wii LAN) → if works, Wi-Fi is the problem
7. System update: Wii Settings → Wii System Update (may fix cert issues)
8. Format Wii (last resort): Settings → Format Wii System Memory — back up saves first!

If Persists

• Router firewall/UPnP: enable UPnP, disable "SIP ALG", add Wii to DMZ temporarily
• Contact Nintendo Support (limited legacy support)
• Homebrew: RiiConnect24 restores some WiiConnect24 features via custom DNS

Most cases: router reboot + Google DNS + 2.4 GHz channel 1/6/11 fixes it.