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 and hold the Chromecast device tile, tap the settings icon (gear), then select Wi-Fi and choose Forget network. Your Chromecast will restart and show a setup code on your TV. Use the Google Home app to scan that code, then select the new WiFi network and enter the password. The whole process takes about two minutes.

You do not need to unplug the device or reset it to factory settings. The Chromecast stays on your TV and keeps all your settings — only the WiFi connection changes.

Key Takeaways

  • Open Google Home, hold down your Chromecast tile, tap settings, then select Wi-Fi and Forget network to disconnect from the old network.
  • Your Chromecast will display a setup code on your TV screen after you forget the network.
  • Use the Google Home app to scan the setup code and connect to your new WiFi network with its password.
  • The process takes about two minutes and does not erase any of your Chromecast settings or apps.

Step-by-step: forgetting the old network

Start with the Google Home app already open on your phone. Find the Chromecast device you want to change — it will show as a tile with the device name and a small image. Press and hold that tile for two to three seconds until a menu appears at the bottom of the screen.

Tap the settings icon, which looks like a gear or cogwheel, usually in the top right corner of the menu. Scroll down until you see the Wi-Fi option. Tap it, then tap Forget network. The app will ask you to confirm — tap Forget again. Your Chromecast will disconnect and restart.

What happens on your TV screen

While your Chromecast restarts, your TV will go blank or show the Chromecast logo. After about 30 seconds, a setup code will appear on the screen — this is a four-digit or six-digit number. You need this code to reconnect to a new network, so keep your phone nearby and do not turn off the TV.

If the code disappears before you are ready, unplug the Chromecast for five seconds and plug it back in. The code will reappear.

Connecting to the new WiFi network

In the Google Home app, tap the + button or Create button (the exact wording depends on your app version). Select Set up device, then Set up new device. The app will ask you to scan the setup code on your TV. Point your phone's camera at the code and let it focus — the app will recognize it automatically.

After the app scans the code, it will show you a list of WiFi networks in range. Tap the network you want to use. Enter the WiFi password and tap Next. The Chromecast will connect and restart one more time. Once it finishes, the device tile will reappear in your Google Home app with the new network listed underneath.

Troubleshooting: Chromecast won't connect to the new network

If the Chromecast connects but then disconnects after a few seconds, the password you entered is likely wrong. Go back to the Google Home app, hold the Chromecast tile, tap settings, select Wi-Fi, and tap Forget network again. Repeat the connection steps and double-check that you typed the password correctly — passwords are case-sensitive.

If your WiFi network does not appear in the list, move your phone and Chromecast closer to the router. Some routers broadcast on two bands (2.4 GHz and 5 GHz) — if your Chromecast only sees one, try connecting to that band first, then switching to the other band later through the app settings if needed.

Changing networks on a Chromecast that will not turn on

If your Chromecast is plugged in but the TV shows nothing and the Google Home app does not recognize it, unplug the device for 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Wait for the setup code to appear on your TV. If it does not appear after two minutes, the device may need a factory reset — hold the reset button on the back of the Chromecast for 15 seconds until the light blinks.

After a factory reset, the Chromecast will go through the full setup process as if it were new. You will need to set it up on the same network as your phone first, then you can change to a different network using the steps above.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose my apps and settings when I change the WiFi network?

No. Changing the WiFi network does not erase anything on your Chromecast. Your apps, saved shows, and settings stay exactly as they were. Only the WiFi connection changes.

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

No. The Google Home app is the only way to change networks on a Chromecast. You cannot do it through the TV remote or any other method.

What if I do not have the Google Home app installed?

read the Google Home app from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iPhone). It is free. Sign in with the same Google account you use on your Chromecast, and you will see your device in the app.

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

Usually 30 to 60 seconds after you enter the password. The device will restart once or twice during this time. If it takes longer than three minutes, the password is probably wrong — try the process again.

Can I connect my Chromecast to a guest WiFi network?

Yes, as long as you know the guest network name and password. Follow the same steps to forget the old network and connect to the guest network. Some guest networks block casting between devices, so test it by casting a video from your phone to make sure it works.