How to change WiFi on Google Home Mini

To change the WiFi network your Google Home Mini connects to, open the Google Home app on your phone, tap the device, select Settings, then Network, and choose "Change WiFi network." Enter your new network name and password. The device will disconnect from the old network and reconnect to the new one within a few minutes.

You do not need to reset the device or lose any of your settings — Google Home Mini remembers your routines, smart home connections, and preferences even when you switch networks. The process takes about two minutes from start to finish.

Key Takeaways

  • Open the Google Home app, find your Mini in the device list, and go to Settings > Network > Change WiFi network to switch to a new network.
  • You will need your new WiFi network name and password ready before you start, but the device keeps all your routines and smart home settings intact.
  • If the app does not show a "Change WiFi network" option, your device may need a software update — check Settings > Device info > System update.
  • If your Mini cannot find your new network, restart both the device and your WiFi router, then try again.
  • For networks that require a login page (like hotel or office WiFi), you may need to use the guest network or contact your network administrator instead.

Step-by-step: changing your WiFi in the Google Home app

Start by opening the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. If you do not have it, download it from the Google Play Store (Android) or the App Store (iPhone). Sign in with the same Google account you used to set up your Home Mini.

Tap the device card for your Google Home Mini — it usually shows the device name and current status. If you have multiple devices, make sure you are selecting the right one. Tap the Settings icon (gear icon) in the top right corner of the device card.

Scroll down and tap "Network." You will see your current WiFi network name listed. Tap "Change WiFi network." The app will scan for available networks and show you a list. Select your new network from the list, enter the password, and tap "Connect." The device will disconnect from the old network and join the new one — this usually takes one to three minutes.

What happens to your settings and routines

Changing WiFi does not erase anything on your Google Home Mini. Your routines, smart home device connections, voice commands, and preferences all stay in place. The device is tied to your Google account, not to a specific network, so switching networks is like moving the device to a different room — everything comes with it.

The only thing that changes is which WiFi network the device uses to reach the internet. Once it reconnects, it will work exactly as it did before.

Troubleshooting: when the network does not appear or connection fails

If your new WiFi network does not show up in the list, restart your WiFi router by unplugging it for 30 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait for it to fully boot up (usually one to two minutes), then open the Google Home app and try again. Sometimes the router needs a moment to broadcast its network name.

If the network appears but the Mini cannot connect, double-check that you entered the password correctly — WiFi passwords are case-sensitive. If you are unsure of the password, check your router's settings or ask whoever manages the network. Restart the Google Home Mini by unplugging it for 10 seconds and plugging it back in, then try connecting again.

If the app shows an error message after you enter the password, your network may require a login page (common in hotels, offices, or public spaces). These networks often do not work well with smart speakers. Ask your network administrator if there is a guest network you can use instead, or check whether your router has a "guest WiFi" option you can enable.

When your Google Home Mini needs a software update

If the "Change WiFi network" option does not appear in your Settings menu, your device may be running an older version of the Google Home app or device software. Open the Google Home app, go to Settings for your Mini, then tap "Device info" and look for "System update." If an update is available, tap "Update" and wait for it to finish — this can take several minutes.

After the update completes, the device will restart automatically. Once it is back online, open the app again and the "Change WiFi network" option should appear in the Network settings.

Switching networks when you move or change internet providers

If you are moving to a new home or switching internet providers, the process is the same: change the WiFi network in the Google Home app. Your new router will have a different network name and password — you can find these on a sticker on the router itself, or in the setup documentation from your internet provider.

If your new router has the same network name and password as your old one (some people set this up intentionally), the Mini may reconnect automatically without you doing anything. If it does not, use the steps above to manually switch networks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I lose my routines and smart home devices when I change WiFi?

No. Your routines, smart home connections, and all settings stay on the device because they are linked to your Google account. Changing WiFi networks is like moving the device to a different location — everything comes with it.

Can I change WiFi without the Google Home app?

No, you need the Google Home app to change networks. You cannot do it through voice commands or any other method. If you do not have the app, download it from the Google Play Store or App Store.

What if I forgot my new WiFi password?

Check the sticker on your WiFi router — the password is usually printed there. If you set a custom password and forgot it, you will need to reset the router to factory settings (usually a small button you hold for 10 seconds) and set it up again. Check your router's manual for exact steps.

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

Usually one to three minutes. The device will disconnect from the old network, find the new one, and reconnect. You will see the status change in the Google Home app once it is connected.

Can I use Google Home Mini on a 5GHz WiFi network?

Yes, Google Home Mini supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks. If your router broadcasts both, the device will connect to whichever one you select in the app. Some older routers only broadcast 2.4GHz, which also works fine.