The fastest way to switch Chromecast to a different network

To change your Chromecast's WiFi network, open the Google Home app on your phone, tap the device, select the gear icon for settings, choose "WiFi" or "Network", then select "Forget" or "Change network". Your Chromecast will restart and show a setup code on your TV. Enter that code in the Google Home app, then select your new WiFi network and enter the password. The whole process takes about two minutes.

You do not need to factory reset the device or unplug it. The Chromecast remembers all your apps and settings — only the WiFi connection changes.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Google Home, find your Chromecast, tap settings, and choose the option to change or forget the network.
  • Your TV will display a setup code that you enter back into the Google Home app to confirm the change.
  • You need the password for your new WiFi network before you start.
  • The process takes about two minutes and does not erase your apps or cast history.

Step-by-step: changing the network in Google Home

Start with the Google Home app open on your phone or tablet. Make sure your phone is currently connected to the WiFi network you want to use — this matters because the app needs to see that network to help Chromecast join it.

Tap and hold the Chromecast device tile. A menu appears. Tap the gear icon in the top right corner to open settings. Scroll down and tap "WiFi" or "Network" (the exact label depends on your Chromecast model). You will see the network your Chromecast is currently using. Tap "Forget this network" or "Change network".

Your Chromecast will restart. On your TV screen, a four-digit setup code will appear. Go back to the Google Home app — it should prompt you to enter this code. Type the code, then tap "Next". The app will show you a list of available WiFi networks. Select the network you want to use and enter its password. Tap "Connect". Your Chromecast will join the new network and you will see a confirmation message in the app.

What to do if the setup code does not appear

If your TV stays blank or shows an error instead of a setup code, unplug the Chromecast for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for it to fully restart — you will see the Google logo on your TV. Then try the network change process again from the Google Home app.

If the app does not prompt you to enter a code after you tap "Change network", close the Google Home app completely and reopen it. Make sure your phone is still on the WiFi network you want to switch to. Then repeat the steps above.

Changing networks on Chromecast with Google TV

If you have a Chromecast with Google TV (the device with a remote), the process is slightly different. On your TV remote, press the Home button. Go to Settings, then Network & Internet, then WiFi. Select "Forget" next to your current network. The device will show a setup code on screen. Open Google Home on your phone, tap the Chromecast device, tap settings, and choose "Set up device". Enter the code and select your new network.

Chromecast with Google TV also lets you change the network directly from the TV itself without using your phone. Go to Settings, Network & Internet, WiFi, and select a new network from the list. Enter the password using the on-screen keyboard. This method is slower but works if your phone is not nearby.

Why your Chromecast might not connect to the new network

The most common reason is an incorrect password. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive, so check that Caps Lock is off and that you typed it exactly as it appears. If you are not sure of the password, check your router or your internet provider's app.

If the password is correct but the Chromecast still will not connect, your new network might use a frequency band your Chromecast does not support. Older Chromecast models only work on 2.4 GHz WiFi, not 5 GHz. Check your router settings to see which band your network is using. If it is 5 GHz only, you may need to enable the 2.4 GHz band or create a separate 2.4 GHz network. Newer Chromecast models support both bands, so this is usually only an issue with devices more than three years old.

Moving your Chromecast between networks without losing settings

When you change the WiFi network, your Chromecast keeps all your apps, your Google account sign-in, and your cast history. You do not lose anything. The device is linked to your Google account, not to a specific network, so switching networks is seamless.

If you are moving to a completely different home or WiFi setup and want a fresh start, you can factory reset the Chromecast instead. In Google Home, tap the device settings, scroll to the bottom, and tap "Factory reset". This erases everything and returns the device to its original state, but it is not necessary just to change networks.

Troubleshooting: Chromecast shows up in Google Home but will not change networks

If the device appears in your Google Home app but the network change option is greyed out or does not work, your Chromecast may be having trouble communicating with the app. Close the Google Home app completely. On your phone, go to Settings, Apps, find Google Home, and tap "Force Stop". Then reopen the app and try again.

If that does not work, restart your phone and your Chromecast. Unplug the Chromecast for 30 seconds, plug it back in, and wait for the Google logo to appear on your TV. Then open Google Home and attempt the network change once more. If the problem persists, your Chromecast may need a factory reset.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose my apps and settings when I change the WiFi network?

No. Changing the network does not erase anything. Your apps, your Google account, and your cast history all stay on the device. Only the WiFi connection changes.

Can I change the network without using the Google Home app?

On Chromecast with Google TV, yes — you can change it directly from the TV settings using the remote. On regular Chromecast, you must use the Google Home app.

What if I do not know my new WiFi password?

Check your router's label or your internet provider's app. If you still cannot find it, you can reset your router to its default password, but that will disconnect all your other devices. Contact your internet provider if you need help.

Why does my Chromecast keep disconnecting from the new network?

This usually means the device is too far from the router or the signal is weak. Move the Chromecast closer to the router or move the router to a more central location. If the problem continues, your router may need a restart — unplug it for 30 seconds and plug it back in.

Can I use my Chromecast on two different networks at the same time?

No. A Chromecast can only connect to one network at a time. If you need it on a different network, you must change it using the steps above.