This article explains how to reset a Chromecast device if you have trouble streaming media. You may also want to factory reset your Chromecast before you sell it or give it to someone else.

What to Know

  • Open the Google Home app. Tap your Chromecast device name > Settings > Factory reset device. If this doesn’t work, try a hard reset. Make sure the Chromecast is connected to a TV and a power source.Then, hold the side button on the device until the LED light flashes white and the TV goes blank.

How to Reset a Chromecast

Before you begin, make sure your Chromecast is securely connected to an HDMI port on your television. The device should also be connected to a power source and your Wi-Fi network. If the device still doesn’t work properly, take the following steps to perform a factory reset:

  • Open the Google Home app on your Android or iOS device.
  • Tap your Chromecast device name.
  • Tap the Settings gear.
  • Tap Factory reset device.
  • A warning message displays, asking if you’re sure you want to reset the device to factory settings. Tap Factory reset device again to confirm. Your Chromecast is reset to the state it was in when you first took it out of the box.
  • A factory reset clears all your installed apps and personal settings. There are a number of other steps you can take to fix a Chromecast that isn’t working.

How to Reset an Older Chromecast

If you have an older Chromecast that uses a computer to configure its settings as opposed to a smartphone or tablet app, open the Chromecast application that was initially installed on the desktop or laptop when you first set up the device.

Open the Google Home app on your Android or iOS device.

Tap your Chromecast device name.

Tap the Settings gear.

Tap Factory reset device.

A warning message displays, asking if you’re sure you want to reset the device to factory settings. Tap Factory reset device again to confirm. Your Chromecast is reset to the state it was in when you first took it out of the box.

A factory reset clears all your installed apps and personal settings. There are a number of other steps you can take to fix a Chromecast that isn’t working.

You must be connected to the Wi-Fi network you originally set up your Chromecast on for this process to work.

When that application interface is visible, choose the Chromecast that you wish to reset, then select Settings and Factory Reset to return the device to a like-new state.

How to Perform a Hard Reset of Your Chromecast

If the above directions did not do the trick for some reason, the last resort is to perform a hard reset on the device. While the Chromecast is connected to a TV and a power source, hold down the button located on its side until the LED light on the device flashes white and the TV goes blank. At this point, release the button and wait for Chromecast to complete the restore process.

If you followed these methods and your Chromecast is still not functioning correctly, the hardware may be defective. Contact the Google Help Center for further assistance.

  • Where is the reset button on a Chromecast?
  • It is the small black button below the micro USB port. If you have a first-generation Chromecast, the reset button is located on the back of the device.
  • How do I troubleshoot my Chromecast not working?
  • First, make sure your Chromecast, phone, and Google Home app are all connected to the same Wi-Fi. More troubleshooting tips: restart your router or modem; turn your Chromecast off and on; update Google Home; update your Chrome browser.

It is the small black button below the micro USB port. If you have a first-generation Chromecast, the reset button is located on the back of the device.

First, make sure your Chromecast, phone, and Google Home app are all connected to the same Wi-Fi. More troubleshooting tips: restart your router or modem; turn your Chromecast off and on; update Google Home; update your Chrome browser.

Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day