Various transmitters allow you to stream media files from mobile phones and tablets to your TV or PC, but Google Chromecast is one of the most portable. You can take it everywhere, but there is one small problem, it only remembers one Wi-Fi network at a time.
If you take your Chromecast with you or have more than one Wi-Fi source inside the house, you’ll need to change your Wi-Fi network regularly. Depending on the reason for the change, the process can be straightforward or a little tricky.
Two main reasons to change Wi-Fi networks
If you are not sure if you should go through the hassle of changing the Wi-Fi network on your Chromecast, here are some common reasons why you should.
The first reason: network changes
The reason for changing your Chromecast to a new Wi-Fi connection is usually for simple switching between networks, such as moving from broadband to a portable hotspot or when traveling. The steps are a piece of cake, and all you have to do is make sure that your mobile device is close to the streaming device.
Reason 2: The network is no longer active
If the Wi-Fi network you’ve connected your Chromecast to isn’t active anymore, things get a little tricky. It will happen when you change your router. You’ve set up your Chromecast for the network that no longer exists, so the Google Home app on your mobile device won’t be able to recognize it.
There is a solution to both, and this article provides a step-by-step guide to help you get it working again.
Make a simple switch to Chromecast
If your current network is active, you just switch your Chromecast from one network to another. This is also the solution when you have connection issues.
Unfortunately, switching networks is not as simple as one might think. You will need to forget your current network (while connected to that network) and then set it up again.
- Turn on the TV connected to the Chromecast and make sure your smartphone (or tablet) is connected to the Internet.
- Open the Home app on your smartphone or tablet.
- Tap on your Chromecast.
- Click on Settings Cog in the upper right corner.
- tap on WIFI.
- Click to confirm that you want to delete the current network.
Once you follow these steps, you will need to reconnect your Chromecast to the Internet. We explain these steps further below. Keep in mind that the Wi-Fi network on your Chromecast must be compatible with the one on your phone. If you get the error message, this might be the problem.
NB: If the Wi-Fi option doesn’t appear in the Home app settings, either you’re not connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast or your TV isn’t turned on. If you do not have access to this network, use the following steps to change your network.
Set up Chromecast for a new modem or router
If you change your network, your Android phone or iPhone will not connect to your Chromecast.
If this is the case, your best bet is to manually reset your Chromecast. This will erase the old Wi-Fi network and allow you to use the new one.
The button next to the micro-USB port on the Chromecast is the reset button. Press and hold for 15 seconds.
While pressing the button, the light on the device will flash, so leave it on when the light stops flashing and stays on.
Now, your Chromecast will restart and reset itself to factory defaults. The device erases the old Wi-Fi network, as well as all the current settings. So, setup starts all over again. Connect your Chromecast to your new Wi-Fi network, and you’re all set!
If you forgot the steps or asked someone else to do so, follow the guide below.
Set up Chromecast on Android or iPhone after reset
Setting up Chromecast is the same for iPhone and Android phones, and it’s a simple and straightforward process.
- Connect your Chromecast to the TV’s HDMI port. Then take your remote and set the input to the one you used for your Chromecast.
- Since the Google Home app is already installed on your mobile device, tap Set up one device option on the main screen. Choose a home for your device and press next one.
- The app searches for nearby wireless devices. After locating your Chromecast, tap yes to go forward. You will see an icon on your phone, as well as on your TV screen. Faucet yes Again to confirm that you can see it, then follow the prompts.
- Choose a location for your Chromecast. Faucet next one And follow the instructions to connect to the new network.
Possible solutions for failed Chromecast connection
If you are facing some difficulties during the setup process, there are some things that you need to check on your Android or iPhone.
Solution 1: Make sure both devices are on the same network
First, you need to make sure that both your Chromecast and your mobile device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. To do this, go to Settings and choose WIFI.
Keep in mind that you may have multiple networks available, 2.4GHz and 5GHz, so make sure you’re connected to the same frequency.
Solution 2: Make sure Bluetooth is turned on
Your Bluetooth option must also be turned on. To check it out, go to Adjust and choose Bluetooth.
Solution 3: Reconnect to the network
After making sure that your smartphone and Chromecast are connected to the same Wi-Fi network and that Bluetooth is turned on, visit Settings Again, choose WIFI, then tap the Chromecast’s open Wi-Fi network to connect to it. Note that you do not specify your Wi-Fi router here.
In general, the Chromecast Wi-Fi setup process depends on whether you’re switching networks or you’ve changed your router or modem. In the first case, the steps are very simple. The second scenario requires resetting the Chromecast and proceeding with the setup process again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Casting with Chromecast should be simple and straightforward, but there’s always more to learn. That’s why we’ve included this section to answer more of your questions.
Can I use my Chromecast without Wi-Fi?
While you can use your Chromecast without a dedicated Wi-Fi connection, you will still need an Internet connection. Whether that connection comes from a portable hotspot or even from Ethernet (with an adapter), you’ll need to find a way to connect your Chromecast to the Internet.
Fortunately, we have an article here that shows you all of your options.
What do I do when I buy a Chromecast from someone else and need to connect to my WiFi?
If you bought a Chromecast or someone gave it to you, you’ll need to set it up for your own personal use. The best way to use Chromecast is to start over with a factory reset. Depending on which model of Chromecast you’re working with, you can follow the steps we mentioned above, or check out this article for a more comprehensive tutorial.
