How to reset a Google Chromecast in 2 different ways to fix issues with the device
- It's easy to reset a Google Chromecast to its factory settings if you're having issues with the device.
- You can reset Google Chromecast directly on the device or through the Google Home app.
- You may also need to reset your Google Chromecast if you get a new wireless router.
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Google Chromecast is a nifty invention that lets you "cast" media from any of your devices - laptops to tablets to mobile phones - onto your TV screen.
Most of the time, the device operates pretty seamlessly with few problems, but like all technology, it's not perfect. Your Chromecast could possibly freeze or lag at some point, and while simply rebooting the device may help, if it doesn't, you may need to resort to more serious measures.
Whether you're trying to solve tech issues or connect the device to a new wireless router in your home, resetting your Chromecast to its factory default settings might be the way to go.
Doing so is relatively easy and should only take a few minutes, after which you'll have a device that's just like new again.
Here's how to do it.
Check out the products mentioned in this article:
Google Chromecast (For $35 at Best Buy)
How to reset Google Chromecast on the device
1. Next to the micro USB port on your Chromecast, press and hold the small round reset button for at least 25 seconds, or until the device's lights begin to flash.
2. Disconnect the power cable from your USB device and wait a few seconds before plugging your Chromecast back in. This will complete your Chromecast's factory reset process and you can begin setting up the device as new.
How to reset Google Chromecast using the Google Home app
1. On your mobile phone or tablet, locate the Google Home app icon and tap to open it.
2. On the bottom right-hand side of your screen, tap the Account button, which appears as a small stick figure's head and shoulder inside a round circle.
3. Tap on the option which tells you how many devices you currently have hooked up in your home.
4. When your list of local devices appears, tap on the device you wish to reset.
5. On the display screen for your chosen device, tap on the Settings icon on the upper right-hand corner of the screen to open the Device Settings.
6. Tap on the three dots (...) on the upper right-hand corner of the screen to reveal a new menu of options, where you will be able to reset your device. This will option be listed either as "Reset."
7. Tap "Reset" and tap it again to confirm your desire to restore the device to factory settings.
It should be noted that this method of factory reset is only available when you're still able to connect to your device by Wi-Fi. If not, you should use the first method listed.
Related coverage from How To Do Everything: Tech:
How to use Google Chromecast on your iPhone, for streaming video, audio, and images to your TV or another display
'What is Google Chromecast?': How to use Google's smart device for TVs and monitors
How to Chromecast from a Mac computer, for streaming media or sharing your screen on a TV or larger display
How to use Google Chromecast from your iPad to stream media to a TV or display