The quickest way to change Chromecast WiFi

To change your Chromecast to a different WiFi network, open the Google Home app on your phone, tap the device, go to Settings, select WiFi, and choose a new network from the list. The whole process takes about two minutes and doesn't require you to reset the device or lose any of your settings.

Your Chromecast will stay connected to the old network until you complete these steps, so you can do this whenever it's convenient — there's no rush to disconnect it first.

Key Takeaways

  • The Google Home app is the standard way to change WiFi; you don't need a computer or the Chromecast remote.
  • Your phone must be on the same WiFi network as the Chromecast before you can change its settings.
  • If your Chromecast won't connect to the new network, restart it by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then try again.
  • Changing the WiFi network does not erase your apps, saved shows, or any other data on the device.

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

Open the Google Home app and look for your Chromecast in the list of devices. If you have more than one, they'll be labeled by room or by name — tap the one you want to change.

Tap the Settings icon (the gear symbol in the top right). Scroll down and tap WiFi. You'll see the network it's currently connected to. Tap "Change" or "Forget network" — the exact wording depends on your app version, but both lead to the same place.

A list of available networks will appear. Select the new network you want to use and enter the password if it's password-protected. The Chromecast will connect within 10 to 30 seconds. Once it shows "Connected," you're done.

What to do if your phone isn't on the same network

The Google Home app can only reach your Chromecast if your phone is connected to the same WiFi network the device is currently using. If you're on a different network — or on mobile data — you won't see the device in the app.

Switch your phone to the same WiFi network as the Chromecast, wait a few seconds for it to connect, then open Google Home again. The device should now appear in your list. After you've changed the Chromecast to the new network, you can switch your phone back to whatever network you prefer.

Restarting the Chromecast if it won't connect

If the Chromecast doesn't connect to the new network after you enter the password, unplug it from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait another 30 seconds for it to fully restart.

Go back into Google Home, return to the WiFi settings, and try entering the network name and password again. Most connection problems clear up after a restart. If it still won't connect, double-check that you've entered the password correctly — passwords are case-sensitive.

Changing networks on a 5GHz-only network

Some newer routers broadcast separate 5GHz and 2.4GHz networks with different names. Older Chromecast models (first and second generation) only work on 2.4GHz, so if your router only broadcasts 5GHz, the Chromecast won't see it in the network list.

Check your router's settings to see if you can enable the 2.4GHz band alongside 5GHz. Most modern routers allow both at the same time. If your router doesn't have this option, you may need to use a different router or contact your internet provider about switching to a dual-band setup.

When to factory reset instead of just changing WiFi

Changing the WiFi network is different from a factory reset. You only need to reset the Chromecast if it won't respond to the Google Home app at all, or if you're giving it to someone else and want to erase all your data.

To factory reset, unplug the device, then plug it back in while holding down the reset button (a small indented button on the back or bottom) for about 15 seconds until the light starts flashing. The device will reset to its original state, and you'll need to set it up again from scratch using the Google Home app. This erases all your settings and paired accounts.

Troubleshooting a Chromecast that keeps disconnecting

If your Chromecast connects to the new network but then drops the connection repeatedly, the problem is usually WiFi signal strength or interference. Move the Chromecast closer to the router, or move the router away from microwaves, cordless phones, and other devices that use the 2.4GHz band.

You can also try changing the WiFi channel in your router's settings. Most routers default to channels 1, 6, or 11 for 2.4GHz — if your neighbors' networks are on the same channel, interference can cause dropouts. Switching to a less crowded channel often solves the problem. Your router's manual or support page will explain how to change the channel.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Changing the WiFi network does not erase anything on the Chromecast. Your apps, saved shows, and any paired accounts stay exactly as they were. Only the network connection changes.

Can I change the Chromecast WiFi from a computer instead of a phone?

The Google Home app works on phones and tablets, not computers. However, you can use the Google Home web interface at home.google.com if you're signed into the same Google account. The steps are similar: find the device, open Settings, and change the WiFi network.

What if I don't know the password to the new network?

You'll need the password to connect. If it's your own router, check the label on the back or bottom of the device, or log into your router's settings page. If it's someone else's network, ask them for the password. The Chromecast can't connect without it.

How do I change the Chromecast back to the old network?

Use the same steps: open Google Home, tap the device, go to Settings, select WiFi, and choose the old network from the list. You can switch between networks as often as you need.