Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitches2Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors3Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteIt depends on what went down. If your router’s Wi-Fi is still working but its internet connection is out, keep your phone and Chromecast on that same network and try casting: local device discovery may still work, but an app that needs its online service may not play. If the Wi-Fi network itself is unavailable, the usual casting setup cannot work until both devices connect to another shared Wi-Fi network. A phone hotspot may be an option, but compatibility is not guaranteed for every device or setup.
First, identify what stopped working
| What failed | What to try | What may still prevent playback |
|---|---|---|
| Internet service, while the router’s Wi-Fi remains available | Leave the phone and Chromecast connected to the same Wi-Fi network, then try casting. | The app may need internet to load, authenticate, or stream the content. Google’s setup guidance establishes the shared-network requirement, not universal offline playback. Google Cast: Cast media from Google Cast-enabled apps to your TV or display. |
| The Wi-Fi network itself is unavailable | Connect both the sender and Chromecast to another shared Wi-Fi network before using the usual casting flow. | Without a shared network, the devices cannot follow Google’s normal same-Wi-Fi setup. A hotspot may work in some configurations, but Google’s reviewed guidance does not guarantee compatibility across devices. |
These are different failures: casting uses the local network to find and communicate with the receiver, while the app may separately need internet access to provide its content. Whether a downloaded title can be cast offline depends on the app and the specific title; check the app’s current offline-playback and casting instructions.
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If the internet is down but Wi-Fi still works
- Check that the router is still broadcasting the Wi-Fi network and that both the phone or computer and Chromecast remain connected to it.
- Open the app and select the Cast control. If the Chromecast appears, try the content you want.
- If discovery works but playback fails, the app may be unable to reach its service. A downloaded file or offline mode is not a guarantee that casting will work; consult the app’s instructions for that content.
Google’s help pages do not promise that every app, downloaded title, or Chromecast model will play during an internet outage. A successful connection to the receiver and access to the video are separate requirements.
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One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchIf the Wi-Fi network is gone, reconnect both devices
The standard Cast setup requires the sending device and Chromecast to be on the same Wi-Fi network. Google says its streaming devices remember one Wi-Fi network at a time, so after changing networks you may need to forget the old network and set up the new one. The steps differ by device family. Google Streaming Help: Change the Wi-Fi network of Google streaming devices.
#1 Best Overall
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
Chromecast with Google TV or Google TV Streamer
Use the device’s TV settings to forget the old Wi-Fi network and connect to the new one. Menu wording can vary by software version; look in the device’s network or Wi-Fi settings.
Chromecast (3rd generation or older), Chromecast Ultra, or Chromecast Audio
- Open the Google Home app and select the device.
- Open Settings, then Device information, then Wi-Fi.
- Choose the option to forget the network, then set up the Chromecast on the new Wi-Fi network.
Could a phone hotspot replace the router?
A mobile hotspot can create a Wi-Fi network for a phone or Chromecast to join, but do not assume that enabling a hotspot on the casting phone will work in every arrangement. Compatibility depends on the phone, Chromecast model, app, and hotspot setup; Google’s reviewed support pages do not validate every combination. Check your devices’ instructions and mobile plan, and account for mobile-data use if streaming succeeds.
Rank #2
- The Google TV Streamer (4K) delivers your favorite entertainment quickly, easily, and personalized to you[1,2]
- HDMI 2.1 cable required (sold separately)
- See movies and TV shows from all your services right from your home screen[2]; and find new things to watch with tailored recommendations for everyone in your home based on their interests and viewing habits
- Watch live TV and access over 800 free channels from Pluto TV, Tubi, and more[3]; if you find an interesting show or movie on your TV, mobile app, or Google search, you can easily add it to your watchlist, so it’s ready when you are[2]
- Up to 4K HDR with Dolby Vision delivers captivating, true-to-life detail[4]; and you can connect speakers that support Dolby Atmos for more immersive 3D sound
If Chromecast does not appear as a Cast target
- Confirm the same network. Check that the sender and Chromecast are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, rather than separate guest or extended networks.
- Check client isolation. Router settings such as AP isolation or client isolation can block devices on Wi-Fi from communicating with one another. This can prevent setup or discovery. Google Cast Help: Having trouble setting up a TV or speaker that works with Google Cast?
- Check discovery features. Google’s troubleshooting guidance identifies UPnP and multicast as relevant to finding Cast devices on the same Wi-Fi network. Public, hotel, or guest networks may restrict this communication. Google Streaming Help: Trouble setting up Chromecast or Google Nest or Home device
- For Google TV, check the Cast system app. Google advises ensuring the Google Cast system app is enabled and restarting the device if casting is unavailable. Google TV Help: Cast from a device to Google TV
What to expect from video quality
For 4K content, Google specifies a 4K-capable display and high-speed internet of at least 20 Mbps. That figure is Google’s stated requirement for 4K content; it is not a universal minimum for local device discovery or a promise that content will play offline. Features and performance can also depend on the app, device, network, availability, and subscription. Google Streaming Help: Requirements for Chromecast and Google TV Streamer devices.
Guest mode is not a current workaround
Google says Chromecast Guest mode is no longer supported. A visitor who wants to cast should join the host’s Wi-Fi network instead, if the network permits device-to-device communication. Google Streaming Help: Set up and manage guest mode.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- HD streaming made simple: With America’s number 1 TV streaming platform,* exploring popular apps—plus tons of free movies, shows, and live TV—is as easy as it is fun. *Based on hours streamed—Hypothesis Group
- Compact without compromises: The sleek design of Roku Streaming Stick won’t block neighboring HDMI ports, and it even powers from your TV alone, plugging into the back and staying out of sight. No wall outlet, no extra cords, no clutter.
- No more juggling remotes: Power up your TV, adjust the volume, and control your Roku device with one remote. Use your voice to quickly search, play entertainment, and more.
- Shows on the go: Take your TV to-go when traveling—without needing to log into someone else’s device.
- TV, simplified: With setup that only takes minutes, a simple-to-navigate Home Screen, and an uncluttered remote control that does all you need—Roku makes it easier to watch the TV you love.
Rank #4
- Expand your home entertainment without buying a new TV; Google Chromecast lets you stream your favorites from your phone, tablet, or laptop; no remote needed
- Chromecast is easy to set up up; just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming to turn your TV into a smart TV; it works with almost any TV that has an HDMI port
- Works with the apps you already know and love; enjoy shows, movies, music, games, sports, photos, live TV, and more from over 2,000 streaming apps in up to 1080p
- With Chromecast, you can stream, pause, play, or adjust the volume right from your phone with just a tap; while you’re streaming, you can still use your phone as you normally do
- Mirror your laptop screen or turn your tablet into an even better entertainment system; surf the web or see your media on the big screen
Rank #3
- Watch the entertainment you love with Chromecast with Google TV, including live TV in up to 4K HDR; discover over 700,000 movies and TV episodes, plus millions of songs
- Get fast streaming, and enjoy a crystal clear picture up to 4K and brighter colors with HDR
- Your home screen displays movies and TV shows from all your services in one place with Chromecast 4K; get personal recommendations based on your subscriptions, viewing habits, and content you own
- Press the Google Assistant button on the remote and use voice search to find specific shows, youtube tv streaming, or search by mood, genre, actress, and more; control the volume, switch inputs, play music, and get answers, hands-free
- Chromecast is easy to install and compatible with almost any TV that has an HDMI port; to get started, just plug it into your TV’s HDMI port, connect to Wi-Fi, and start streaming
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