Change your Chromecast's WiFi network through the Google Home app on your phone

To switch your Chromecast to a different WiFi network, open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet, tap the device, then tap the settings gear icon. Select "WiFi" and choose "Change WiFi Network." Your Chromecast will disconnect from the old network and walk you through connecting to the new one. The whole process takes about two minutes.

You will need to be on the same WiFi network as your Chromecast when you start, or within Bluetooth range if your phone supports it. If your Chromecast is already offline, you can still change the network by holding the reset button on the device itself for 15 seconds, then setting it up fresh in the Google Home app as if it were new.

Key Takeaways

  • The Google Home app is the fastest way to change networks — tap your device, select settings, then choose "Change WiFi Network."
  • Your phone must be on the same WiFi as your Chromecast, or close enough for Bluetooth to reach it.
  • If your Chromecast is offline or won't connect, reset it by holding the button for 15 seconds and set it up as new.
  • After switching networks, your Chromecast may take 30 seconds to a minute to reconnect and show up in the app.
  • If the new network uses a 5 GHz band only, your Chromecast may not connect — most models need 2.4 GHz.

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

Open the Google Home app and look for your Chromecast in the list of devices. Tap it once to open the device card. In the top right corner, tap the settings gear icon — this opens the full device settings page.

Scroll down and tap "WiFi." You will see the network your Chromecast is currently connected to. Tap "Change WiFi Network." The app will show you a list of available networks. Select the new network you want to use and enter the password if it is password-protected. Tap "Connect" and wait for the confirmation message.

Your Chromecast will disconnect from the old network and join the new one. This usually takes 30 seconds to a minute. Once it reconnects, you will see a green checkmark and the new network name displayed on the WiFi settings page.

What to do if your Chromecast is already offline

If your Chromecast is not showing up in the Google Home app or is offline, you cannot use the WiFi change method. Instead, reset the device by locating the small reset button on the back or bottom of the unit. Press and hold it for 15 seconds until the light blinks orange, then release.

Once the light turns orange, the device has been reset to factory settings. Open the Google Home app, tap the plus icon to add a new device, and select "Set up device." Choose "New device" and follow the setup steps. When prompted, select your new WiFi network and enter the password. The Chromecast will connect and appear in your device list as if it were brand new.

Common reasons your Chromecast won't connect to the new network

The most common issue is that your new WiFi network uses only the 5 GHz band. Older Chromecast models and some newer ones only support 2.4 GHz WiFi. Check your router settings to see which bands are active. If 5 GHz only is enabled, either enable the 2.4 GHz band as well or temporarily switch to 2.4 GHz to set up your Chromecast, then switch back if you prefer.

Another frequent problem is entering the WiFi password incorrectly. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive, so make sure caps lock is not on and that you have not added extra spaces. If you are unsure of the password, check your router's label or log into your router's admin page to confirm it.

If the network name does not appear in the list, move your Chromecast closer to the router or restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds. Some routers take a moment to broadcast their network name after a restart.

Switching between networks you already use

If you have multiple WiFi networks in your home — for example, a main network and a guest network — you can switch between them using the same "Change WiFi Network" method in the Google Home app. This is useful if you want to move your Chromecast to a different room with better signal, or if you are testing which network gives you the most stable streaming.

You can also set up your Chromecast on a guest network if you prefer to keep it separate from your main devices. Just follow the same steps and select the guest network name when prompted. Keep in mind that if your guest network has a time limit or requires a login page, your Chromecast may disconnect when that limit expires.

When to call for help

If you have tried resetting the device and setting it up on the new network, but it still will not connect, the issue may be with your router or internet connection rather than the Chromecast itself. Restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then try the setup again.

If the Chromecast connects to the new network but then when ready disconnects, or if it connects but will not cast content, contact Google Support or your router manufacturer. These issues are usually caused by router settings that block certain devices or ports, and your router's support team can help adjust those settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be on the same WiFi as my Chromecast to change the network?

Yes, your phone must be on the same WiFi network as your Chromecast, or within Bluetooth range. If your Chromecast is offline, you will need to reset it and set it up as new instead.

Will changing the WiFi network erase my apps or settings?

No. Changing the network keeps all your apps, preferences, and linked accounts intact. Only the WiFi connection changes.

Can I use a 5 GHz WiFi network with my Chromecast?

Most Chromecast models only support 2.4 GHz. Check your device's specifications on Google's support page. If your router broadcasts both bands, enable 2.4 GHz alongside 5 GHz so your Chromecast can connect.

What if I forgot my new WiFi password?

Log into your router's admin page using a computer or phone on that network. You can usually find the router's IP address on a sticker on the device itself. Once logged in, you can view or reset your WiFi password.

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

Usually 30 seconds to one minute. If it takes longer than two minutes, the password may be incorrect or the network may not be broadcasting. Try the change again and double-check the password.