Fix Chromecast Source Not Supported Error: 12 Solutions
Quick Fix
Chromecast “Source not supported” error means the content can’t be cast. To fix it: Update your Chrome browser and Chromecast firmware. Then try casting from a different app – use the official streaming app instead of Chrome browser. Also restart both your Chromecast and casting device.
What Is “Source Not Supported” Error?
The “Source not supported” error appears when trying to cast content to Chromecast. The device refuses to play the video or audio because it doesn’t recognize the format, the source is protected, or there’s a compatibility issue. You might see this when casting from websites, apps, or when screen mirroring.
Common causes include DRM-protected content, unsupported video formats, outdated software, network issues, or HDCP handshake failures. Let’s fix it.
Method 1: Use the Official Streaming App
Casting from apps is more reliable than browser casting.
- Instead of casting from Chrome browser, use the official app
- Examples:
- Netflix app instead of netflix.com in browser
- YouTube app instead of youtube.com
- Disney+ app instead of website
- Open the app on your phone/tablet
- Look for the Cast icon in the app
- Select your Chromecast
- Play the content
Official apps have proper Chromecast integration and handle DRM correctly.
Method 2: Restart Chromecast
A restart clears temporary glitches.
- Open the Google Home app
- Tap your Chromecast device
- Tap the Settings gear icon
- Tap More (three dots)
- Select Reboot
Or manually:
- Unplug Chromecast from power
- Wait 30 seconds
- Plug it back in
- Wait for it to fully boot (solid light)
- Try casting again
Method 3: Update Chromecast Firmware
Outdated firmware causes compatibility issues.
- Open Google Home app
- Tap your Chromecast
- Tap Settings (gear icon)
- Scroll to Device information
- Check Cast firmware version
- Chromecast updates automatically, but restarting forces update check
- Reboot the device and wait 10 minutes for any pending updates
Method 4: Update Chrome Browser
Old Chrome versions can’t cast properly.
- Open Chrome
- Click the three dots menu
- Go to Help > About Google Chrome
- Chrome will check for updates automatically
- Click Relaunch if an update is available
- Try casting again
Method 5: Check HDMI Connection
HDCP (copy protection) issues cause “source not supported.”
- Unplug Chromecast from TV’s HDMI port
- Try a different HDMI port
- Avoid using HDMI splitters or switches
- Connect directly to the TV
- If using an older TV, try an HDCP-compatible HDMI port
Some older TVs don’t support HDCP 2.2, causing errors with protected content.
Method 6: Restart Your Router
Network issues prevent proper casting.
- Unplug your router from power
- Wait 30 seconds
- Plug it back in
- Wait for full restart (2-3 minutes)
- Reconnect your devices
- Try casting again
Method 7: Ensure Same Network
Chromecast and casting device must be on the same network.
- On your phone/computer, check which WiFi network you’re on
- In Google Home app, check which network Chromecast is using
- They must match exactly
- If different, reconnect Chromecast to the correct network
- Some routers have separate 2.4GHz and 5GHz networks – use the same one
Method 8: Disable VPN
VPNs can block or interfere with casting.
- Disable VPN on your casting device
- Check for VPN at router level and disable if present
- Try casting without VPN
- If it works, casting doesn’t work well with VPN active
Method 9: Clear Chrome Cache
Corrupted browser data affects casting.
- Open Chrome
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Delete
- Select All time
- Check Cached images and files
- Check Cookies and other site data
- Click Clear data
- Restart Chrome
- Try casting again
Method 10: Try Guest Mode
Guest mode uses a different casting method.
- Open Google Home app
- Tap your Chromecast
- Tap Settings > Recognition & sharing
- Enable Guest mode
- Try casting – device may use Guest mode if regular casting fails
Method 11: Factory Reset Chromecast
A factory reset clears all issues but requires setup again.
Using Google Home app:
- Open Google Home app
- Tap your Chromecast
- Tap Settings (gear)
- Tap More (three dots)
- Select Factory reset
- Confirm
Using the device button:
- While Chromecast is plugged in, hold the button on the device
- Hold for about 25 seconds
- The LED will blink orange then white
- Release when LED turns solid white
- Set up Chromecast again in Google Home app
Method 12: Check Content Restrictions
Some content cannot be cast due to licensing.
Content that often won’t cast:
- Downloaded/offline content in streaming apps
- Some live TV streams
- Protected video from certain websites
- Screen recordings or DRM content
Solutions:
- Cast the stream version instead of downloaded content
- Use the official app instead of browser
- Try screen mirroring as alternative (may still be blocked)
Chromecast Supported Formats
Chromecast supports these formats natively:
| Type | Supported Formats |
|---|---|
| Video | H.264, VP8, VP9, HEVC (some models) |
| Audio | AAC, MP3, Vorbis, WAV, FLAC |
| Containers | MP4, WebM, MKV (limited) |
Files in unsupported formats will show “source not supported.”
Preventing “Source Not Supported”
- Keep Chromecast firmware updated
- Update Chrome browser regularly
- Use official streaming apps when possible
- Connect Chromecast directly to TV (no splitters)
- Maintain stable WiFi connection
- Avoid VPN when casting
FAQ
Why does Chromecast say “source not supported”?
This error means Chromecast can’t play the content being cast. Common reasons: DRM-protected content, unsupported video format, outdated software, HDCP issues, or the website/app doesn’t support Chromecast properly.
Why can I cast some things but not others?
Different content has different protections and formats. Native Chromecast-enabled apps work best. Browser casting depends on the website’s format and DRM. Some content is specifically blocked from casting due to licensing restrictions.
Does “source not supported” mean my Chromecast is broken?
No, this is almost always a software or compatibility issue, not hardware failure. The error just means that specific content can’t be cast, not that the device itself is faulty.
Why won’t Netflix/Disney+/etc. cast?
Always use the official app instead of the browser version. If the app won’t cast, try: logging out and back in, clearing app cache, reinstalling the app, or checking if your subscription allows casting on that device.
Can I cast downloaded content?
Usually no. Downloaded/offline content in apps typically can’t be cast due to DRM protection. You’ll need to stream the content (requires internet) rather than play downloaded files.
Why does casting work on phone but not computer?
Phone apps often have better Chromecast integration than browser casting. Try updating Chrome, disabling extensions, or using the Chrome browser’s built-in Cast feature rather than website cast buttons.
