Change Your WiFi Network in the Google Home App

To change which WiFi network your Chromecast connects to, open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. Tap the device you want to change, then tap the settings icon (gear) in the top right corner. Scroll down and tap Wi-Fi, then select Forget This Network. Your Chromecast will disconnect from the current network.

After you forget the network, the app will prompt you to connect to a new one. Select your WiFi network from the list, enter the password if it's password-protected, and wait 30 to 60 seconds for the connection to complete. You'll see a confirmation message when your Chromecast is connected.

If you don't see your network in the list, make sure your router is turned on and broadcasting the network name. Networks that are hidden won't appear in the list — you'll need to type the name manually in the "Other Network" field at the bottom of the available networks list.

Key Takeaways

  • Open the Google Home app, select your Chromecast, tap settings, and choose Wi-Fi to change networks.
  • You must forget the old network before connecting to a new one — the app won't let you switch directly.
  • Connection takes 30 to 60 seconds; you'll see a confirmation message when it's complete.
  • If your network doesn't appear in the list, type the name manually in the "Other Network" field.
  • Your Chromecast will lose internet access during the switch, so any streaming will pause until reconnection finishes.

What Happens When You Forget a Network

When you tap Forget This Network, your Chromecast erases the saved WiFi password and disconnects when ready. The device will no longer automatically reconnect to that network, even if it comes back in range. This is useful if you're moving to a new home, switching to a different router, or removing a guest network.

While your Chromecast is disconnected, it won't respond to casting commands from your phone or tablet. Any video or music currently playing will stop. The device itself stays powered on — you don't need to unplug it or restart it.

Connecting to a 5GHz or 2.4GHz Network

Some routers broadcast two separate networks: one at 5GHz (faster, shorter range) and one at 2.4GHz (slower, longer range). Both will appear as separate options in the Google Home app. If your router broadcasts both, you can choose which one your Chromecast uses.

For most homes, 5GHz is the better choice if your Chromecast is close to the router (within 30 feet). If your device is farther away or in a different room with walls between, 2.4GHz often works more reliably. You can test both and switch if you notice buffering or disconnections.

Troubleshooting Connection Problems

If your Chromecast won't connect after you enter the password, the most common cause is an incorrect password. Double-check that caps lock is off and that you're typing the exact password your router uses. Some routers have a default password printed on the back or bottom of the device.

If the password is correct but the connection still fails, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. While the router restarts, also unplug your Chromecast for 10 seconds and plug it back in. Once both devices have restarted, try connecting again through the Google Home app.

If your Chromecast connects but then disconnects after a few minutes, your router may be blocking it. Check your router's settings to make sure it's not filtering out the device. Some routers have a "guest network" mode that blocks devices from talking to each other — if you're on a guest network, try switching to the main network instead.

Changing Networks on Multiple Chromecast Devices

If you have more than one Chromecast, you'll need to change each one separately through the Google Home app. Open the app, select the first device, change its network, wait for it to connect, then repeat the process for the next device. The app will show you a list of all your Chromecast devices at the top of the screen.

You can change them one at a time or all at once — there's no limit to how many you can switch in a single session. Just make sure each one finishes connecting (you'll see the confirmation message) before moving to the next device.

What to Do If You Can't Access the Google Home App

If you've lost access to the phone or tablet that set up your Chromecast, you can still change the network using a different device. Install the Google Home app on another phone or tablet, sign in with the same Google account that set up the Chromecast, and you'll see all your devices listed. Then follow the same steps to change the network.

If you don't have access to any device with the Google Home app, you can reset your Chromecast to factory settings and set it up again from scratch. Hold down the reset button (a small recessed button on the back or bottom of the device) for 10 to 15 seconds until the light blinks orange. The device will reset and you can set it up with a new network using any phone or tablet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will changing networks erase my saved shows or preferences?

No. Your Chromecast will remember all your apps, saved shows, and account logins. Changing the WiFi network only disconnects and reconnects the device to the internet — it doesn't erase any data stored on the device.

Can I change the network without using the Google Home app?

No. The Google Home app is the only way to change WiFi networks on Chromecast. You cannot do it through the Chromecast's own menu or settings.

How long does it take for my Chromecast to reconnect after I change networks?

Most Chromecasts connect within 30 to 60 seconds. If it takes longer than two minutes, unplug the device for 10 seconds and plug it back in, then try again.

What if I forget my WiFi password?

You can find your WiFi password by logging into your router's settings page (usually 192.168.1.1 in a web browser) or by checking the router itself — many routers have the password printed on a sticker on the back or bottom. If you still can't find it, contact your internet provider or router manufacturer.

Can I change my Chromecast's network from a different WiFi network?

Yes. As long as your phone or tablet is connected to the internet (any WiFi or mobile data), you can use the Google Home app to change your Chromecast's network. The device you're using doesn't need to be on the same network as the Chromecast.