There are several reasons you may have to reset the Wi-Fi network on your Google Chromecast device. While you’re not specifically resetting the Wi-Fi—more along the lines of deleting the current network and replacing it with the original or a new one—you will have to do it via the Google Home app or factory resetting the device.

If you experience a service interruption, purchase a used Chromecast, replace your router or modem, or are otherwise required to change your network password, you will probably have to follow the below steps to remove the old network and add the new one. If it’s strictly a troubleshooting problem, you should exhaust other options before resorting to resetting the Wi-Fi.

How to Reset Chromecast Wi-Fi

To reset a Chromecast’s Wi-Fi, follow these steps:

  • Open the Google Home app and select your Chromecast device from the home screen.On the following screen, tap Settings > Wi-Fi > Forget This Network.Once you’ve deleted the old network, you’ll have to set up a new one as if it were for a brand new Chromecast device. In the Google Home app select Add + > Set Up Device > New Device > Next.Once you’ve selected your Chromecast, the guide will walk you through the rest, including scanning the QR code and setting up your new Wi-Fi network.

Troubleshooting Chromecast Wi-Fi Issues

Sometimes, the problem doesn’t necessarily stem from your Wi-Fi. Living life in the world of IoT is an adventure, after all. Here’s a list of things to consider:

  • Chrome browser updates (if you are casting from a computer)Smart TV or smartphone firmware updatesDifferent bandwidth (5.0ghz or 2.4ghz)

Firmware Updates

If your Google Chromecast is undergoing a firmware update, you won’t be able to cast. It’s easy to confuse a lack of response from your device as a problem with your network. You’ll know the device is updating because the Chromecast will display a pulsing red light. You will also notice that a firmware update is currently in progress if you check the device’s status on the Google Home app.

Check for Router or Modem Issues

Check to see if your router or modem is currently online. Most routers come with a display of vertical or horizontal lights that are identified by adjacent symbols. These lights typically indicate download, upload, connection, power, etc.

Be sure that each LED is lit, indicating that everything is in good working order. If not, you may have to reset your router or contact your ISP.

Update Chrome Browser

If you’re casting from a computer—through the Google Chrome browser—be sure that your browser’s firmware is updated. You can check that by selecting the three horizontal dots at the upper right-hand corner of the screen. If you select it, and there is a pending update, the option to update your firmware will be displayed.

Check Your Bandwidth

Google Chromecast devices—except Chromecast with Google TV—prefer the 2.4Ghz bandwidth. You’ll have to check this by navigating to your router’s settings through your web browser. Instructions are usually located on the bottom or back of your router and contain the password and admin login information.

Resetting Google Chromecast to Change the Wi-Fi Network

Another option to reset your device’s Wi-Fi is to factory reset your Google Chromecast and start from scratch.

  • You do this by opening the Google Chromecast app, signing in, and selecting Account on the bottom right-hand side of the screen. On the next screen, at the top of the list, you’ll see # Local Devices. Select that, followed by your Chromecast.On the Chromecast device screen, select Settings and then tap the three horizontal dots at the top, right-hand side of the screen. This will open a new screen with the option to Reset. Select it and confirm to reset your Chromecast.

You can also factory reset your Chromecast manually:

  • Press and hold the oval button—located on your Chromecast device—for at least thirty seconds or until it begins to flash.Release the button and unplug the Chromecast from its power source.After a few seconds, plug it back in, and once it has rebooted, proceed through the setup process on your Google Home app.

A factory reset will delete all of the previous information from your Chromecast, including the Wi-Fi network it’s connected to. The drawback is that you will lose all of the information associated with the device, unlike removing and replacing the network information through the Google Home app.

Final Thoughts

Resetting the Wi-Fi network on a Google Chromecast is useful whenever you update your router, set up a used Chromecast, or have a network disruption that necessitates it. However, it isn’t always necessary, especially if you’re trying to troubleshoot your device. Performing a soft reboot or a factory reset will solve almost any issue. It may require a little patience, but Chromecast devices don’t usually have a lot of issues.

Google frequently updates its devices; by keeping up with firmware updates with your smartphone, smart TV, and any devices directly associated with Chromecast’s ability to operate, you should rarely have a problem.

If you know how to reset your Wi-Fi network on your Google Chromecast, as well as troubleshoot, then Chromecast devices are well-built, quality products that will last as long as you need them to.