Chromecast Not Working? Try these 9 quick & simple solutions

If your Google Chromecast streaming device isn't working you can try the following to fix the issue:

1. Make sure your Chromecast is connected to the same Wi-Fi network as your mobile device
2. Use the HDMI extender cable that came with your Chromecast
3. Move your router closer to your Chromecast
4. Reset your modem or router
5. Reset your Chromecast device
6. Make sure you're running your Chromecast on a 2.4GHz network frequency
7. Update your router's firmware, if needed
8. Adjust your router's channels
9. Upgrade your internet plan to ensure your network can handle streaming

---

There are a few reasons your Google Chromecast streaming device isn't working properly. This could include Wi-Fi connection issues, channel interference, or pairing errors. Any of these issues could be the cog in your wireless wheels. Luckily, there are a number of quick fixes to help you troubleshoot your Chromecast.

On this page, we'll walk you through some of the top troubleshooting contenders, including how to connect Chromecast or Chromecast Ultra to different Wi-Fi networks and how to reset your Google Chromecast device.

How to fix your Chromecast when it's not working

---

It can be pretty frustrating when your Chromecast isn't working. But whether you're experiencing buffering, freezing apps, or something else, there's an easy fix around the corner. Check out these top troubleshooting fixes for when your Chromecast isn't working.

#1: Check your Wi-Fi network

Wondering why Chromecast can't connect to your Wi-Fi? You may have recently changed your router password and forgot to update your Chromecast or added a second Wi-Fi network to your home and now your mobile devices and Chromecast are connected to different networks. 

Either way, the first and easiest thing to fix a Wi-Fi setup error with your Chromecast is to make sure it’s connected to the same network as your mobile devices.

Thankfully, there's no difference in how to connect Chromecast vs. Chromecast Ultra to your Wi-Fi:

1. Check your phone's settings to see what network it's on, then cross-reference in your Chromecast settings. 
2. If you see different info for your Chromecast, change Wi-Fi networks. 
3. Once you’ve confirmed that they match, you can try one of the following options.

#2: Use the Chromecast Extender

One reason why your network isn't working with Chromecast: It may be fighting to detect a signal. Televisions are essentially giant shields through which signals have a very difficult time passing. Your Chromecast needs all the help it can get.

Your Chromecast came with a short HDMI extender cable in order to better connect Chromecast to Wi-Fi. This is a stiff cable, a couple of inches long, that will cause your Chromecast to stick out of the back of the TV. The purpose of this cable is to give your device a little more breathing room to detect Wi-Fi networks. If you're not sure how to connect Chromecast's HDMI extender, check out Google's Chromecast setup guide.

Even if this isn't the problem, it's a good idea to use on the off chance it will improve streaming speeds.

#3: Move your modem/router

This may seem fairly obvious, but your internet signal may simply be too far away from your Chromecast device. If you can't bring your TV closer to your modem, try relocating your modem into a room nearer to your connected devices.

#4: Reset your modem/router

If Chromecast still won't access the internet, turn your modem and router (both are often part of the same device) off and disconnect from power. Wait around 10 seconds and reconnect power before turning them back on (modem first, router second, if you have separate units).

Wait around 30 seconds to 1 minute before trying to connect your Chromecast again.

#5: Perform a factory data reset

The next fix is to completely reset your Chromecast or Chromecast Ultra back to its factory defaults. This will not delete any of your app data—all it means is that your Chromecast number will change (which makes no difference to you or your devices) and you’ll have to go through the setup process again.

Not sure how to reset Chromecast? Your steps will change based on whether your model is a first or second generation device, or a Chromecast Ultra:

1. Either use your Google Home app to reset Chromecast, or hold down the button on the back of your Chromecast dongle for at least 25 seconds. 
2. Once your TV screen goes blank you can let go and wait for it to clear its memory.

It's also a good idea to try a using different device during your second setup attempt. For example: If you tried to set it up using the Google Home app on your phone the first time, download the app to your housemate's and try using theirs the second.

#6: Check your network signal

If a complete reset doesn't work, it may be time to look at your router's signal settings. There are two frequency bands over which Wi-Fi networks operate: 2.4GHz and 5GHz. Chromecasts only work on 2.4GHz.

This can be annoying, but the silver lining is that 2.4GHz is the superior of the two options for a streaming device, thanks to its lower frequency being better at penetrating solid objects.

1. Go in to your router settings (instructions are usually on the bottom of your router) and check the frequency it’s operating on. 
2. Select 2.4GHz for your Chromecast.

If your other devices are connected to a 5GHz network you might be able to leave them be, depending on the abilities of your router. Just make sure you tick the option for “Enable guest mode” during the Chromecast setup process.

#7: Update your router's firmware

When you log in to your router's settings menu, there may be a notification regarding a firmware update; if there is, click it. Even if it ends up making no difference to your situation, at the very least it will improve your network security from external threats.

#8: Adjust your router channels

Most routers allow you to toggle between the wireless channels they run on. If the channel your router is automatically set to is the same one used by your neighbors, interference can occur. This may explain why your network is not working with Chromecast:

1. Go into your router settings (instructions should be on the underside of your router; if not, try a web search using your router’s brand and model number) 
2. Look for a section called “Wireless” and a subsection called “Channel and SSID." The names of these menus may vary depending on your router.
3. Find the “channel” field. If it is set to “Auto”, change it to any numbered option. 
4. If the problem continues, change it again until you find a channel with less interference.
5. Alternatively, use a tool like WiFiInfoView to take a look at your surrounding Wi-Fi networks and what channels they run on.

Popular opinion around the web is that Chromecast operates best on channels 1, 6 and 11, although we’ve seen no evidence of a specific channel making a spot of difference. Just make sure that as few of your neighbors as possible use the same channel as you. This will not only improve Chromecast performance, but Wi-Fi speeds and reliability in general should be better once you make the change.

Best Chromecast alternatives

---

The Chromecast is a user-friendly streaming device, but other options are available that provide a similar experience. Our favorite Chromecast alternatives are the Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ and Fire TV Stick 4K. Both devices include Wi-Fi support for casting from a phone, tablet, or PC to your TV, as well as 4K video output with a high dynamic range (HDR). 

The Roku Streaming Stick 4K+ works with many smart home services—like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant—and comes with the Roku voice remote. 

As for the Fire TV Stick 4K, it can stream some of your favorite apps—like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+—and includes an Alexa voice remote. 

Both are great options if you can’t get your hands on a Chromecast or you’re looking for a specific feature that Google’s device doesn’t offer.

Chromecast troubleshooting FAQs

---

How do I connect Chromecast to my TV?

Your Chromecast setup should be quite easy, though it differs slightly based on whether you have a basic Chromecast or an upgraded Chromecast Ultra. To set up your standard Chromecast device:

That’s it! You’re ready to connect your Chromecast to Wi-Fi and get started using the Google Home/Chromecast app. Just tap the Cast button and you're set.

How do I connect my Chromecast to Wi-Fi?