Change Your Chromecast's Network in Settings

To change which Wi-Fi network your Chromecast uses, open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet, tap the device, then tap the settings icon (gear) in the top right. Select Wi-Fi, then Forget to disconnect from the current network. The Chromecast will restart and show a setup code on your TV screen. Follow the on-screen prompts in the Google Home app to connect to a different network.

The whole process takes about two minutes. Your Chromecast will reconnect to the new network and be ready to use when ready after setup completes. You do not need to unplug the device or restart your router.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Google Home, select your Chromecast, tap settings, and choose Wi-Fi to see the forget option.
  • Forgetting the network causes your Chromecast to restart and display a setup code on your TV.
  • Follow the Google Home app prompts to select and connect to a new Wi-Fi network.
  • The device will remember your Google account, so you only need to reconnect to Wi-Fi, not sign in again.

What Happens When You Forget a Network

When you tap Forget in the Wi-Fi settings, your Chromecast erases the password and network name it has stored. The device then reboots and enters setup mode, similar to when it was brand new. A four-digit code appears on your TV screen.

This code is temporary and changes each time you forget a network. Do not close the Google Home app or walk away during this step—you need the app open to complete the connection. The code expires after about 10 minutes if you do not finish setup.

Connecting to the New Network

After the setup code appears on your TV, the Google Home app will prompt you to select a Wi-Fi network from a list. Choose the network you want to use. If the network does not appear in the list, make sure your router is turned on and broadcasting its name (SSID). Networks set to hidden mode will not show up automatically.

Once you select the network, you will be asked to enter the Wi-Fi password. Type it carefully—passwords are case-sensitive. After you enter the password, the Chromecast connects and the setup code disappears from your TV screen. Your device is now on the new network.

Troubleshooting Connection Problems

If the Chromecast cannot find your network, check that your phone or tablet is connected to the same Wi-Fi you are trying to set up. The Google Home app needs to be on the same network to complete the setup. If your phone is on a different network or using mobile data, the setup will fail.

If you enter the password and the connection times out, the Chromecast may be too far from the router. Move the device closer to the router and try again. If the problem persists, restart your router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait for the router to fully boot before attempting setup again.

Switching Between 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz Networks

Some routers broadcast two separate networks: one at 2.4 GHz and one at 5 GHz. The 2.4 GHz network has longer range but slower speeds. The 5 GHz network is faster but does not travel as far. Your Chromecast works on both, so you can choose based on where you place the device.

If your router combines both frequencies under one network name, your Chromecast will automatically pick the stronger signal. If your router lists them separately (for example, "NetworkName" and "NetworkName-5G"), select the one that works best in your location. You can always switch later by forgetting the network and reconnecting to the other one.

What to Do If You Forget Your Wi-Fi Password

If you do not remember your Wi-Fi password, you can find it on your router or in your router's settings page. Most routers have a sticker on the back or bottom with the default password printed on it. If you changed the password and cannot remember it, you will need to reset your router to factory settings, which erases all custom settings and returns it to the default password.

Resetting a router is a last resort because it will disconnect all your devices. Before you reset, try logging into your router's admin page from a computer or phone on the same network. The address is usually printed on the router itself (often something like 192.168.1.1). From there, you can change the password to something you will remember.

Connecting to a Guest Network or Public Wi-Fi

Chromecast works on guest networks and public Wi-Fi, but some public networks require you to accept terms or log in through a web page first. If you are trying to set up Chromecast on a public network, connect your phone to that network first, then open the Google Home app and complete the setup. Your Chromecast should connect to the same network.

If the network has a login page that pops up, you may need to open a web browser on your phone and accept the terms before the Chromecast can access the internet. Once you are connected, casting should work normally. Keep in mind that public networks are often slower and less reliable than home networks, so streaming quality may be reduced.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose my apps and settings when I change networks?

No. Your Chromecast stays signed into your Google account and keeps all your apps, preferences, and casting history. Changing the network only disconnects and reconnects to Wi-Fi—it does not erase anything on the device.

Can I connect my Chromecast to a 5 GHz network only?

Yes, if your router broadcasts a separate 5 GHz network name, you can select it during setup. Chromecast works on 5 GHz, though the range is shorter than 2.4 GHz. If the device is far from your router, 2.4 GHz may work better.

What if the setup code does not appear on my TV?

Make sure your Chromecast is plugged in and your TV is on the correct input. If you still do not see the code, unplug the Chromecast for 10 seconds, plug it back in, and try the forget-network step again. The code should appear within 30 seconds of restart.

Can I use Chromecast on a network without internet?

Chromecast requires internet to set up and to cast most content. However, once connected, you can cast local files or use certain apps that work offline. For normal use, a working internet connection is necessary.

How do I switch back to my old network?

Open Google Home, go to your Chromecast settings, select Wi-Fi, and tap Forget. Follow the setup steps again and select your original network. Your device will reconnect with all your settings intact.