How to change your Chromecast's WiFi connection
You change your Chromecast's WiFi network through the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. Open the app, select your Chromecast device, tap the settings icon (gear symbol), scroll to "WiFi", and choose "Forget network" or "Change WiFi". Then select your new network from the list and enter the password. The process takes about two minutes and your Chromecast will reconnect within 30 seconds.
You do not need to unplug the device or reset it to change networks. If you are switching to a different router, a new network name, or moving to a different location, this is the standard method. The Chromecast stays on the same Google account and keeps all your settings — only the WiFi connection changes.
Key Takeaways
- The Google Home app is the only way to change your Chromecast's WiFi; you cannot do it from the device itself or through a web browser.
- You must have the Chromecast already connected to WiFi and on the same network as your phone to access its settings.
- After you change networks, your Chromecast will reconnect within 30 seconds and be ready to use when ready.
- If the Google Home app does not show your Chromecast, restart both the device and your phone, then try again.
Step-by-step: changing the network in Google Home
Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. At the bottom of the screen, tap "Home". Find your Chromecast device in the list and tap it once to open its card.
Tap the settings icon (a gear symbol) in the top right corner of the device card. Scroll down until you see "WiFi" and tap it. You will see the network your Chromecast is currently connected to. Tap "Forget network" to disconnect from it, or tap "Change WiFi" if that option appears instead.
Your Chromecast will now search for available networks. Select your new network from the list. If your network does not appear, make sure your router is on and broadcasting its name (SSID). Enter the WiFi password when prompted. The Chromecast will connect within 30 seconds.
What to do if your Chromecast does not appear in Google Home
If you cannot see your Chromecast in the Google Home app, the most common reason is that your phone is not on the same WiFi network as the device. The Google Home app must be able to reach your Chromecast to change its settings. Connect your phone to the same network the Chromecast is currently on, then open the app again.
If your Chromecast is already on the same network as your phone and still does not show up, restart the Chromecast by unplugging it for 10 seconds, then plugging it back in. Restart your phone as well. Open Google Home again and look for the device. If it still does not appear after two minutes, your Chromecast may have lost its connection entirely — in that case, you will need to set it up again from scratch using the initial setup process.
Changing networks on older Chromecast models
The steps are the same for all Chromecast models, including the original Chromecast, Chromecast with Google TV, and Chromecast Audio. The Google Home app works the same way across all versions. If you have a very old Chromecast (first generation from 2013), the app interface may look slightly different, but the WiFi settings option is still in the device settings menu.
If you are using an older Android phone or iPhone, the Google Home app may not be fully up to date. Update the app from the Google Play Store (Android) or the App Store (iPhone) to make sure you have the latest version with all the settings options available.
Switching between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz networks
Most modern routers broadcast both a 2.4 GHz and a 5 GHz network at the same time, sometimes under the same name or separate names. When you open the WiFi list in Google Home, you will see all available networks. If your router broadcasts both frequencies under different names (like "NetworkName-2.4" and "NetworkName-5"), you can choose which one your Chromecast connects to.
Chromecast devices work on both frequencies, but 2.4 GHz has better range and wall penetration, while 5 GHz is faster if your Chromecast is close to the router. If your Chromecast keeps disconnecting, try switching to 2.4 GHz. If you want the fastest streaming performance and your device is in the same room as your router, choose 5 GHz.
Troubleshooting connection problems after changing networks
If your Chromecast connects to the new network but then disconnects repeatedly, the password may be incorrect. Go back into the WiFi settings in Google Home, tap "Forget network", and reconnect using the correct password. Make sure you are typing the password exactly as it is set on your router — passwords are case-sensitive.
If the Chromecast connects but cannot reach the internet, check that your router itself has an internet connection. Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds. If other devices on the same network can access the internet but your Chromecast cannot, restart the Chromecast and try again. If the problem persists, you may need to reset the Chromecast to factory settings and set it up again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change my Chromecast's WiFi without the Google Home app?
No. The Google Home app is the only way to change your Chromecast's network settings. There is no web interface, no button on the device itself, and no other app that can do this. You must use Google Home on a phone or tablet.
Do I lose my apps and settings when I change networks?
No. Changing the WiFi network does not affect your apps, your Google account, or any settings you have configured. Your Chromecast stays linked to your account and keeps everything exactly as it was.
What if I forget my WiFi password?
You will need to find or reset your WiFi password through your router's settings or your internet provider's account. If you do not know how to access your router, contact your internet provider. Once you have the correct password, you can enter it in the Google Home app to reconnect your Chromecast.
How long does it take for the Chromecast to connect to a new network?
Usually 30 seconds or less. If it takes longer than two minutes, the password may be wrong or the network may be unavailable. Check that you entered the password correctly and that your router is on.
Can I change my Chromecast's network from a different WiFi network?
No. Your phone must be on the same WiFi network as your Chromecast to access its settings in Google Home. If you are away from home, you cannot change the network remotely.