Changing Your Chromecast's WiFi Connection

To change the WiFi network your Chromecast uses, open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet, tap the device, select Settings, then Network, and choose "Change WiFi Network." You'll enter your new network name and password, and the Chromecast will reconnect within a minute or two. The process works the same whether you're switching to a different network in your home, moving to a new house, or reconnecting after your router password changed.

The Google Home app is the only way to change WiFi on most Chromecast models. You cannot do it from the Chromecast itself—it has no buttons or menu system. You need the app installed on a phone or tablet that is already connected to the same WiFi network as your Chromecast, or to the new network you want to switch to.

Key Takeaways

  • Use the Google Home app to change WiFi; open it, find your Chromecast, go to Settings, then Network, then "Change WiFi Network."
  • Your phone or tablet must be on the same network as the Chromecast (the old one) or on the new network you want to switch to.
  • Enter the exact network name and password for the new WiFi; if the password is wrong, the Chromecast will not connect.
  • After you submit the new network details, wait one to two minutes for the Chromecast to disconnect from the old network and connect to the new one.
  • If the Chromecast does not reconnect, restart it by unplugging the power cable for 30 seconds, then plug it back in.

Step-by-Step: Changing the Network in Google Home

Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. If you don't have it, read it from the App Store (iPhone) or Google Play (Android). Make sure your phone is connected to either the old network (the one your Chromecast is currently on) or the new network you want to switch to.

Tap the Chromecast device you want to change. If you have multiple Chromecasts, they'll be listed by name—often "Living Room" or "Bedroom" or the default name like "Chromecast." Once you've selected it, tap the Settings icon (a gear symbol, usually in the top right corner).

Scroll down and tap "Network." You'll see the current network name displayed. Tap "Change WiFi Network." The app will scan for available networks and show you a list. Find your new network name in the list and tap it.

Enter the password for the new network. Passwords are case-sensitive, so type it exactly as it is—uppercase and lowercase letters matter. Tap "Save" or "Connect." The Chromecast will now attempt to join the new network. This usually takes 30 seconds to two minutes.

What to Do If Your Phone Is on a Different Network

If your phone is already on the new WiFi network but your Chromecast is still on the old one, the Google Home app may not see the Chromecast at all. In this case, switch your phone back to the old network temporarily, change the Chromecast's WiFi in the app, and then switch your phone to the new network once the Chromecast has connected.

Alternatively, if you have a second phone or tablet in your home, use that device to make the change. Just make sure the second device is on the same network as the Chromecast before you open Google Home and make the switch.

Troubleshooting: Chromecast Won't Connect to the New Network

If the Chromecast does not connect after you enter the new network details, the most common cause is an incorrect password. Double-check that you typed it correctly—spaces, numbers, and special characters all matter. If you're unsure of the password, check your router's settings or contact your internet provider.

If the password is correct but the Chromecast still won't connect, restart the device. Unplug the power cable from the back of the Chromecast for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for the light to stabilize, then try changing the network again.

If the Chromecast connects to the new network but then when ready disconnects, the network may be blocking the device. Some routers have a guest network mode or a device-blocking feature. Log into your router's settings (usually through a web browser or the router's app) and make sure the Chromecast is not blocked or restricted. You may also need to move the Chromecast closer to the router to improve the signal.

When to Restart Your Router

If you've changed your router's password or network name and multiple devices are having trouble connecting, restart the router itself. Unplug the power cable for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait two to three minutes for the router to fully restart before trying to connect the Chromecast again.

Restarting the router clears its memory and forces all devices to re-authenticate. This often fixes connection problems that persist even after you've entered the correct password.

Changing Networks on Older Chromecast Models

The steps above work for Chromecast (3rd generation and later), Chromecast with Google TV, and Chromecast Audio. If you have an older Chromecast (1st or 2nd generation), the process is identical—use the Google Home app, go to Settings, then Network, then "Change WiFi Network."

If you have a Chromecast built into a TV (Chromecast built-in), the steps may differ slightly depending on the TV manufacturer. Check your TV's manual or the manufacturer's support page for instructions specific to your model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to unpair and re-pair my Chromecast when I change networks?

No. Changing the WiFi network does not unpair the device from your Google account. It remains linked to your account and your Google Home app, and all your settings and saved content stay in place. You only need to change the network connection.

What if I forgot my new WiFi password?

You'll need to find or reset the password before the Chromecast can connect. Log into your router's settings through a web browser or the router's app (check the router's manual for the default login). From there, you can view or change the WiFi password. Once you have the correct password, use the Google Home app to enter it on the Chromecast.

Can I change the Chromecast's network from a computer instead of a phone?

No. The Google Home app is only available for phones and tablets (iOS and Android). You cannot change the network from a computer. You'll need to use a smartphone or tablet to make the change.

Why does the Chromecast keep disconnecting from the new network?

This usually means the WiFi signal is weak or the router is blocking the device. Move the Chromecast closer to the router, or check your router's settings to make sure the Chromecast is not on a blocked-devices list. Some routers also have a feature that disconnects devices after a period of inactivity—check your router's manual to see if this is enabled.

Will changing networks affect my streaming apps or saved preferences?

No. Your apps, preferences, and account information stay the same. Only the WiFi network connection changes. Once the Chromecast reconnects to the new network, everything will work as before.