Change Your Chromecast's WiFi in Three Steps

To change the WiFi network your Chromecast connects to, you need to reset its network settings and reconnect it to a different network. The fastest way is to use the Google Home app on your phone or tablet—it walks you through reconnection in about two minutes. You can also reset the Chromecast using the physical reset button on the device itself, though this takes longer because you'll need to set up the entire device again from the start.

The method you choose depends on whether you want to keep your Chromecast's settings (like the backdrop and linked Google account) or start fresh. Most people use the Google Home app method because it preserves everything except the WiFi connection.

Key Takeaways

  • The Google Home app method takes about two minutes and keeps all your Chromecast settings intact while only changing the WiFi network.
  • You need the Google Home app installed on a phone or tablet that is already connected to WiFi to change your Chromecast's network.
  • If you use the physical reset button on the Chromecast, you will need to set up the entire device again, including linking your Google account.
  • After reconnecting, test the connection by casting something from your phone to make sure the new network is working properly.

Using the Google Home App to Switch Networks

Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. Make sure your phone is connected to the WiFi network you want your Chromecast to use. Tap the device card for your Chromecast—it will show the device name and a small image. If you have multiple Chromecasts, select the one you want to change.

Tap the settings icon (a gear symbol) in the top right corner of the device card. Scroll down and tap "Forget network." The app will disconnect your Chromecast from its current WiFi and return to setup mode. Now tap "Set up device" and follow the on-screen steps to reconnect to your new network. When prompted to select a WiFi network, choose the one you want to use and enter the password if required.

The app will confirm when your Chromecast has connected successfully. This usually takes 30 to 60 seconds. Once connected, you can close the setup screen and your Chromecast will be ready to use on the new network.

Using the Physical Reset Button on Your Chromecast

If you cannot access the Google Home app or prefer to reset the device completely, use the reset button on the Chromecast itself. Locate the small reset button on the back or side of your Chromecast (the exact location varies by model). You will need a straightened paperclip or a similar thin object to press it.

Unplug the Chromecast from power, wait 10 seconds, then plug it back in. While it is starting up, press and hold the reset button for about 15 seconds until the LED light on the device begins flashing orange. Release the button and wait for the light to turn white, which signals the device is in setup mode.

Now open the Google Home app and follow the full setup process as if you were setting up a new Chromecast. You will need to select your WiFi network, enter the password, and link your Google account. This method takes longer—usually 5 to 10 minutes—but it clears all previous settings and can fix connection problems that the network-only reset cannot.

Troubleshooting When Your Chromecast Won't Connect

If your Chromecast fails to connect after you enter the WiFi password, the most common cause is an incorrect password. Double-check that you are typing it correctly—passwords are case-sensitive. If you are unsure of the password, check your router's label or log into your router's settings page from a computer to view or reset the WiFi password.

If the password is correct but the Chromecast still will not connect, move it closer to your router temporarily. Chromecasts need a strong WiFi signal, and distance or obstacles like walls can cause connection failures. Once it connects successfully, you can move it back to its original location.

If the device keeps disconnecting after connecting, your WiFi network may be unstable. Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait two minutes for it to fully restart, then try reconnecting your Chromecast. If problems continue, check whether your router is broadcasting on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands—some older Chromecasts only work on 2.4 GHz.

What to Do If You Forgot Your WiFi Password

If you do not know the password for the network you want to connect to, you can find it on the router itself. Most routers have a sticker on the back or bottom that lists the WiFi network name and password. If the sticker is missing or unreadable, you can reset the router to its factory settings, though this will disconnect all devices and require you to set up the network again.

Alternatively, if you have a computer or phone already connected to that WiFi network, you can view the saved password through your device's settings. On an Android phone, go to Settings > WiFi, long-press the network name, and tap "Share." On a Mac, open System Preferences > Network, select WiFi, and click "Advanced" to see saved networks and their passwords (you may need to enter your computer password).

Testing Your Connection After Switching Networks

Once your Chromecast has connected to the new WiFi network, test it by casting something from your phone. Open any app that supports casting—YouTube, Netflix, Google Photos, or Spotify all work. Look for the cast icon (usually a rectangle with a WiFi symbol in the corner) and tap it. Select your Chromecast from the list of available devices.

If your Chromecast appears in the list and the cast works, your connection is successful. If it does not appear, wait 30 seconds and try again—sometimes it takes a moment for devices to discover each other on a new network. If it still does not appear, go back to the Google Home app and verify that your Chromecast shows as connected under the device settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to unplug my Chromecast to change the WiFi network?

No, you do not need to unplug it when using the Google Home app method. The app handles the network change while the device stays powered on. You only need to unplug it if you are using the physical reset button on the back of the device.

Will changing the WiFi network erase my Google account from the Chromecast?

No. When you use the Google Home app to change networks, your Google account and all settings stay linked to the device. Only the WiFi connection changes. If you use the physical reset button, the device will reset completely and you will need to link your account again.

Can I change the WiFi network if my phone is not connected to WiFi?

No, your phone must be connected to the new WiFi network you want to use. The Google Home app uses your phone's connection to guide the Chromecast to the same network. If your phone is on cellular data, the setup will not work.

How long does it take for the Chromecast to connect to a new network?

Usually 30 to 60 seconds after you enter the WiFi password. If it takes longer than two minutes, the password may be incorrect or the signal may be too weak. Try moving the Chromecast closer to the router and try again.

What if my Chromecast connects but then keeps disconnecting from the new network?

Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds. Also check that your router is broadcasting on the correct frequency—older Chromecasts only work on 2.4 GHz, not 5 GHz. If your router only broadcasts 5 GHz, you may need to enable the 2.4 GHz band in your router settings.