Why Does Chromecast Keep Disconnecting?

Smartphone screen with google app connecting to wifi network. Smartphone screen with google app connecting to wifi network. 

When you buy through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Like all smart devices, your Chromecast may have technical difficulties. A common issue that Chromecast can experience is the possibility of frequent disconnection, causing a major inconvenience. This can be very frustrating, and it is important to understand why this is happening to fix it.

Your Chromecast may keep disconnecting due to either Wi-Fi issues, overuse of the device, or the device reaching its age limit. Luckily, the disconnection problem can be easy to troubleshoot.

There are many different versions of the Chromecast that Google has come out with. No matter the version, you may still experience a disconnection problem with the device. However, even though the versions of the Chromecast range, they all have the same solutions to resolve the problem at hand.

Why Chromecast Keeps Disconnecting

While the solutions to fixing your Chromecast are simple, it is necessary to understand why it is disconnecting in the first place. Without knowing the reason, it will ultimately be harder to troubleshoot.

There are usually three main reasons your Chromecast keeps disconnecting:

  • Age of Chromecast – According to Best Buy, the life span of a Chromecast is about two years. If you are experiencing disconnection problems after this time frame, you may need to invest in a new device. However, if your product isn’t two years old yet and it is disconnecting, it may have some life in it still. Don’t give up on it right away; troubleshoot the issue and see if that can fix your Chromecast.
  • Overuse of Chromecast – Sometimes, your Chromecast may just be worn out. Overuse is another common reason your Chromecast may keep disconnecting. Like any piece of technology, technical difficulties may come about when a device is used to the point where it gets worn out. Try letting your Chromecast rest for a day or two by powering the device off.
  • Wi-Fi Connection Issues– This is the most common reason for connection issues with Chromecast. Check that your router is close enough to the device; if you’re still experiencing problems, resetting your Wi-Fi may do the trick.

How to Reconnect Chromecast

In some cases, like end-of-life expectancy, you may need to invest in a new Chromecast. However, if that isn’t the case, there are a few ways you can repair its disconnection issue:

chromecast setup
  • Restart your Chromecast. Hold the button on the side of the device down while it is plugged in. The LED light will blink orange; hold the reset button down until the light turns white and then release.
  • Reset your Chromecast. Hold down the button on the side of the Chromecast’s dongle for 25 seconds until the like turns from white to blinking red.
  • Reset your Wi-Fi. Use a paper clip to press down the reset button on the back of your router for 15 seconds.
  • Update your Chrome Browser (if using with a laptop). You can check if you’re using the latest version of your browser by going into your settings.
  • Make sure you’re using the cables that came with the Chromecast. Multiple cables should have come with your Chromecast, including a stereo 3.5 mm analog audio cable, a USB power cable, and a power supply. Using other cords that did not come with your device may also lead to connection issues.
  • Move your Wi-Fi router to be closer to your Chromecast. Your router should be closer to your Chromecast, ideally within 15 feet of the device.

It is suggested to try these steps before investing in a new Chromecast or taking it somewhere to get fixed. Even if your Chromecast is over two years old, it is still worth a shot to see if any of these solutions work.

In Summary

The Google Chromecast is an easy way to turn your regular TV into a smart TV without paying the cost for it. The Chromecast can connect your smartphone to the TV, and then from there, you can stream different services. However, while the Google Chromecast sounds like a perfect solution, it can have some flaws. Often, the Chromecast’s biggest problem is that it keeps connecting from users’ TVs.

Before resorting to purchasing a new device, try one of the troubleshooting steps mentioned above to see if that gets your Chromecast connected again. You may have your Chromecast up and working in no time!

Keep Reading