The Google Chromecast is an iconic streaming dongle that has supported streaming from devices since 2013. It simply plugs into your TV's HDMI port and lets you stream content from your smartphone, tablet, or computer. Setting up your Chromecast and connecting it to Wi-Fi is really easy, and once you’re set, you’ll be able to watch your favourite YouTube videos and supported streaming services with ease and convenience!
What do you need
- A Chromecast device
- A Wi-Fi network
- A smartphone or tablet with the Google Home app installed (available on the App Store or Google Play Store).
How to Set Up Your Chromecast
1. Plug in your Chromecast
First, you will need to connect your Chromecast to your TV's HDMI port and power it on.
2. Turn on Bluetooth & Local Network Access
Ensure you have Bluetooth turned on and local network access for Google Home. Follow these steps for iPhone and iPad:
- Settings > Bluetooth > Toggle on.
- Go back to Settings. Tap Privacy > Local Network > Toggle on “Google Home".
Follow these steps for Android devices:
- Settings > Connections or Bluetooth > Toggle on.
- Go back to Settings. Tap Apps > Google Home.
- Under Permissions, ensure 'Location' and 'Local Network Access' is enabled.
3. Open the Google Home app & Add Device
On your smartphone or tablet, open the Google Home app. The app should automatically detect your Chromecast. If not, tap Devices > Add + > Google Nest or partner device.
4. Choose your Wi-Fi network
Select what Wi-Fi network to connect the Chromecast to and enter the password if prompted. Ensure you select the same network that your device is using.
5. Follow Steps on Screen
Follow the on-screen instructions to finish setting up your Chromecast and link your Chromecast to your Google account.
How to Change the Wi-Fi Network of Chromecast
If you’d like to change what Wi-Fi network your Chromecast is connected to, follow these steps:
1. Open the Google Home app.
Open the Google Home app from your main device.
2. Forget the Wi-Fi Network.
Tap and hold your device’s tile. From here, tap Device Information > Wi-Fi > Forget this network. Otherwise, once you tap on your device's tile, you can tap the Settings cog in the upper-right-hand corner, before tapping Forget beside the Wi-Fi network.
3. Set Up Your Wi-Fi Network Again
Follow the steps to set up your Chromecast again.
Troubleshooting Tips
Having trouble setting up? Try these things:
- Ensure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network.
- SSIDs (network names) that have special characters or spaces can cause issues - update your SSID if so.
- Ensure your Wi-Fi network uses a frequency band (2.4Ghz or 5Ghz) compatible with your Chromecast model.
- Ensure Bluetooth is on.
- Restart your Chromecast.
- Restart your router (be sure to turn it off at the wall or unplug it, before turning it back on).
- Connect manually to Chromecast’s SSID and try again.
- Do this under your phone's Settings > Wi-Fi > Other Network > Enter Network Name (SSID) and Password.
- Contact Google’s customer support.
