Chromecast Not Working? 10 Easy Fixes

Quick Fix

Chromecast not working? Reboot your Chromecast: unplug it from power for 30 seconds, plug back in. Ensure your phone and Chromecast are on the same WiFi network. Restart your router. Update the Google Home app on your phone.

Why Won’t Chromecast Work?

Chromecast issues come from WiFi connectivity problems, different networks between phone and Chromecast, outdated apps, HDMI connection issues, or power supply problems. The device needs stable WiFi to function.

Method 1: Reboot Chromecast

Power cycle fixes most issues.

1. Unplug Chromecast from power
2. Wait 30 seconds
3. Plug back in
4. Wait for startup (about 1 minute)
5. Try casting again

Method 2: Check WiFi Network

Both devices must be on same network.

1. Open Google Home app
2. Tap your Chromecast device
3. Check which WiFi it’s connected to
4. Ensure phone is on same network
5. Don’t use guest networks

Method 3: Restart Router

Network issues affect casting.

1. Unplug router from power
2. Wait 60 seconds
3. Plug back in
4. Wait for full restart (2-3 minutes)
5. Reconnect devices and try casting

Method 4: Update Google Home App

Outdated app causes issues.

1. Open App Store or Play Store
2. Search for Google Home
3. Tap Update if available
4. Restart app after updating
5. Try casting again

Method 5: Check HDMI Connection

Loose connection causes problems.

1. Unplug Chromecast from TV
2. Check HDMI port for dust/debris
3. Plug back in firmly
4. Try different HDMI port
5. Use HDMI extender if needed

Method 6: Use Proper Power Source

USB power may be insufficient.

1. Use the included power adapter
2. Don’t use TV USB port for power
3. TV USB often provides less power
4. Plug adapter into wall outlet
5. Chromecast needs stable power

Method 7: Disable VPN

VPN blocks casting.

1. Turn off VPN on your phone
2. VPN puts devices on different networks
3. Casting won’t work through VPN
4. Reconnect to regular WiFi
5. Try casting again

Method 8: Factory Reset Chromecast

Reset fixes persistent issues.

1. While plugged in, hold button on Chromecast
2. Hold for 25 seconds
3. LED will blink orange then white
4. Chromecast resets to factory
5. Set up again in Google Home app

Method 9: Check Firewall Settings

Router may block casting.

1. Access router settings
2. Look for AP isolation – disable it
3. Enable UPnP if disabled
4. Check multicast settings
5. Save and restart router

Method 10: Update Chromecast Firmware

Outdated firmware causes issues.

1. Open Google Home app
2. Tap Chromecast > Settings
3. Check firmware version
4. Updates install automatically when idle
5. Leave Chromecast on overnight to update

FAQ

Why can’t my phone find Chromecast?

Phone can’t find Chromecast when they’re on different WiFi networks, router has AP isolation enabled, or Chromecast isn’t powered properly. Ensure both devices are on the same network and Chromecast is using wall power.

Why does Chromecast keep disconnecting?

Frequent disconnections indicate weak WiFi signal, router issues, or power problems. Move Chromecast closer to router, use 5GHz network if available, and always use wall power adapter instead of TV USB port.

Can I cast without WiFi?

Chromecast requires WiFi to function. Guest Mode allows casting without being on the same network, but the Chromecast itself still needs WiFi. There’s no offline casting capability.