Disconnect from the old network and start setup again
To change the WiFi network your Chromecast is connected to, you need to reset the device back to its initial setup state, then reconnect it to your new network. Chromecast does not have a built-in menu to switch networks without resetting — you cannot straightforward pick a new WiFi name from a settings screen like you would on a phone.
The process takes about five minutes and requires your Chromecast to be plugged in and powered on. You will need the name and password of the new WiFi network before you start. Have your phone or computer nearby, because you will use the Google Home app to walk through setup again.
Key Takeaways
- Chromecast requires a factory reset to change WiFi networks — there is no direct "switch network" option in settings.
- Press and hold the reset button on the back of the device for 10 to 15 seconds until the light blinks orange, then release.
- Open the Google Home app on your phone, tap the plus icon, and select "Set up device" to reconnect to your new network.
- The device will ask for your new WiFi name and password during setup, and you can rename the Chromecast if you want.
- After setup completes, test the connection by casting a video or photo from your phone to confirm it is working.
Locate and press the reset button
Find the small reset button on the back or bottom of your Chromecast device. On most models, it is a recessed button about the size of a ballpoint pen tip. You will need a straightened paperclip, a thumbtack, or a similar thin object to press it — your fingernail usually will not reach far enough into the recess.
With the Chromecast plugged in and powered on, press and hold the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds. The LED light on the device will change from blue (or white) to orange and begin blinking. This blinking orange light tells you the reset is in progress. Release the button once you see the orange blink.
The device will restart and the light will go back to white or blue. This takes about 30 seconds. Do not unplug the Chromecast during this time. Once the light stabilizes, the device is ready for setup.
Open the Google Home app and begin setup
On your phone or tablet, open the Google Home app. If you do not have it installed, read it from the Google Play Store (Android) or the App Store (iPhone). Tap the plus icon in the top left corner of the app, then select "Set up device."
The app will ask whether you are setting up a new device or adding to an existing home. Choose "Set up a new device." The app will then search for nearby Chromecast devices. When it finds yours, it will show the device name (usually something like "Living Room" or "Chromecast") and ask you to confirm.
Tap the device name to continue. The app will display a four-digit code on your phone and ask you to confirm that the same code appears on your TV or monitor. Look at the screen where your Chromecast is connected and verify the code matches. This step confirms you are setting up the correct device.
Select your new WiFi network and enter the password
After you confirm the code, the app will show a list of available WiFi networks in your area. Find and tap the name of your new network. If your network is hidden, you can manually enter the network name instead.
The app will then prompt you to enter the WiFi password. Type it carefully — passwords are case-sensitive, so uppercase and lowercase letters matter. If you enter the password incorrectly, the setup will fail and you will need to start over. Double-check before tapping "Next."
The Chromecast will connect to the new network. This usually takes 30 to 60 seconds. You will see a progress screen while the connection is being established. Once connected, the app will confirm the setup is complete.
Name your device and finish setup
The app will ask you to name your Chromecast. You can keep the default name (like "Living Room") or type a new one. The name is what appears in the Google Home app and on your phone when you cast content, so choose something that describes where the device is located.
You can also assign the device to a room in your home (like "Bedroom" or "Kitchen") if you have multiple Chromecast devices. This helps organize them in the app. Tap "Next" to continue.
The app will ask whether you want to turn on features like voice search or personal results. You can enable or skip these based on your preference. Once you finish these optional settings, the setup is complete and your Chromecast is connected to the new WiFi network.
Test the connection by casting content
To confirm the Chromecast is working on the new network, cast something from your phone. Open YouTube, Google Photos, or any app that supports casting. Look for the cast icon (it looks like a rectangle with a WiFi symbol in the corner) and tap it.
Select your Chromecast from the list of available devices. If the device appears and you can start playing a video or photo, the connection is working correctly. If the device does not appear in the cast menu, the Chromecast may not be properly connected to the new network — go back and check that you entered the WiFi password correctly.
Troubleshooting if the reset does not work
If the LED light does not blink orange after holding the reset button, the device may not have registered the button press. Try again with a fresh straightened paperclip and press firmly for the full 10 to 15 seconds. Some reset buttons require more pressure than others.
If the Chromecast still does not reset, unplug it from power for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for the light to turn on, then try the reset button again. If you continue to have trouble, the device may have a hardware issue and may need to be replaced.
If the device resets but will not connect to your new WiFi network during setup, make sure you are entering the password correctly. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive and spaces count. If you are unsure of the password, check your router or ask whoever manages your network. You can also try moving the Chromecast closer to the WiFi router to rule out signal strength as the problem.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I lose my saved shows and preferences when I reset the Chromecast?
Yes. A factory reset erases all settings and preferences stored on the device. However, your Google account and any shows you saved are stored in your Google account, not on the Chromecast itself. Once you sign back in during setup, your saved content and preferences will reappear.
Can I change WiFi networks without resetting the device?
No. Chromecast does not have a menu option to switch networks without a full reset. The only way to connect to a different network is to reset the device and go through setup again.
How long does it take to change the WiFi network?
The entire process usually takes 5 to 10 minutes, depending on how quickly your new network connects. The reset itself takes about 30 seconds, and setup takes another 2 to 5 minutes.
What if my new WiFi network uses a 5GHz band instead of 2.4GHz?
Most Chromecast models support both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. During setup, the app will show all available networks in your area. Select whichever band your new network uses. If your router broadcasts both bands under the same name, the Chromecast will automatically choose the best one.
Do I need to be connected to the old WiFi network to reset the Chromecast?
No. The reset button works regardless of which network the device is currently connected to. You only need the Chromecast to be plugged in and powered on. You do not need to be on the old network to perform the reset.