What you need before you start
To connect a Chromecast to WiFi, you need three things: the Chromecast device itself plugged into a TV's HDMI port, a smartphone or tablet with the Google Home app installed, and the WiFi network name and password for the network you want to use. The Chromecast will display a setup code on your TV screen once you plug it in — this is normal and expected.
Make sure your phone or tablet is already connected to the same WiFi network you want the Chromecast to join. The device you're using to set up the Chromecast does not have to stay on that network afterward, but it needs to be on it during setup so it can communicate with the Chromecast.
If you're setting up a Chromecast for the first time, the device will be in setup mode automatically. If you're reconnecting an older Chromecast to a new network, you may need to factory reset it first — hold the reset button on the back of the device for about 15 seconds until the light starts blinking.
Key Takeaways
- Your phone or tablet must be on the same WiFi network as the Chromecast during setup, though it can switch networks afterward.
- The Google Home app is the only way to connect a Chromecast to WiFi — there is no button or screen on the device itself.
- The setup code that appears on your TV is just a visual confirmation; you don't type it anywhere.
- If the Chromecast doesn't appear in the Google Home app, restart both the Chromecast and your phone, then try again.
Opening the Google Home app and finding your Chromecast
Open the Google Home app on your phone or tablet. If you don't have it installed, download it from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS). Sign in with the Google account you want to use for this Chromecast — you can change this later, but you need to be signed in to set it up.
Tap the plus icon or "Create" button, usually in the top left corner. Select "Set up device" and then choose "Set up a new device." The app will search for nearby devices. Your Chromecast should appear in the list within 10 to 15 seconds. If it doesn't show up, make sure the Chromecast is powered on and that your phone is on the correct WiFi network.
Tap on your Chromecast when it appears. The app will show you the setup code that's also displaying on your TV screen — this is just a confirmation that you're setting up the right device. You don't need to enter this code anywhere; it's just visual proof that your phone found the correct Chromecast.
Entering your WiFi password
The Google Home app will now ask you to select a WiFi network. You'll see a list of available networks. Find and tap the network name (called the SSID) that you want the Chromecast to connect to. This should be the same network your phone is currently on.
Enter the WiFi password when prompted. Type it carefully — passwords are case-sensitive, so uppercase and lowercase letters matter. If you're not sure of the password, you can usually find it on a sticker on the back or bottom of your WiFi router, or check your router's settings through its app or web interface.
Tap "Connect" or the equivalent button. The Chromecast will attempt to join the network. This usually takes 30 to 60 seconds. You'll see a progress indicator on your TV screen and in the app. Once the connection is successful, the app will move to the next step.
Completing setup and testing the connection
The app will ask you to name your Chromecast — something like "Living Room" or "Bedroom" helps you identify it later if you have multiple Chromecasts. You can change this name anytime in the Google Home app settings, so don't worry about getting it perfect now.
Choose which room the Chromecast is in, if prompted. This helps Google Home organize your devices, but it's optional. You can skip this step and add it later.
Once setup is complete, the app will confirm the connection. Your TV screen should now show the Chromecast home screen with a clock, weather, or photo display. This means the WiFi connection is working. You can now close the Google Home app — the Chromecast will stay connected to WiFi even after you close the app or switch your phone to a different network.
What to do if the Chromecast won't connect
If the Chromecast doesn't appear in the Google Home app, first check that your phone is on the correct WiFi network. Look at your phone's WiFi settings — the network name should match the one you're trying to connect the Chromecast to. If your phone is on a different network, switch to the correct one and try again.
If the Chromecast appears but won't accept the WiFi password, double-check that you typed it correctly. Passwords are case-sensitive. If you're still stuck, restart the Chromecast by unplugging it for 10 seconds, then plugging it back in. Wait for the light to stop blinking, then try the setup process again from the beginning.
If your WiFi network uses a 5GHz band only, some older Chromecast models may not support it. Older Chromecasts work only on 2.4GHz networks. Check your router settings to see if you can enable a 2.4GHz band, or look up your specific Chromecast model to confirm which frequencies it supports. Newer Chromecast models support both bands.
Switching a Chromecast to a different WiFi network
To move a Chromecast to a new WiFi network, open the Google Home app and tap and hold the Chromecast device. Tap the settings icon (gear icon), then scroll down and select "Forget network" or "Remove device." This erases the old network information.
Unplug the Chromecast for 10 seconds, then plug it back in. It will return to setup mode. Follow the same steps as the initial setup — open Google Home, tap the plus icon, select "Set up device," and choose the new WiFi network. The process is identical to the first time you set it up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Google account to use Chromecast?
Yes, you need a Google account to set up a Chromecast through the Google Home app. However, once it's set up, other people can cast to it without signing in — they just need to be on the same WiFi network and have a compatible app on their phone.
Can I connect a Chromecast to a guest WiFi network?
Yes, Chromecast can connect to guest networks. Enter the guest network name and password during setup just as you would for a regular network. Some guest networks have restrictions that may prevent casting, so if it doesn't work, contact your network administrator or try the main network instead.
What if I forgot my WiFi password?
You can reset your WiFi password through your router's settings. Most routers have a web interface you can access by typing the router's IP address into a browser, or you can use your router manufacturer's app. Check the sticker on your router for the default login information if you haven't changed it.
Why does my Chromecast keep disconnecting from WiFi?
Chromecast disconnections are usually caused by WiFi interference, distance from the router, or router settings that drop idle devices. Try moving the Chromecast closer to the router, restarting both the Chromecast and router, or checking your router's settings to ensure it's not set to disconnect inactive devices.
Can I use Chromecast without WiFi?
No, Chromecast requires a WiFi connection to work. It cannot connect via Bluetooth or ethernet. If you don't have WiFi available, you won't be able to use the Chromecast.