Authored by: Support.com Tech Pro Team
In order to connect to a wireless network, you must have the required credentials. These are:
Most wireless routers/gateways have a label with the default credentials. If the credentials aren't there, look in the devices documentation.
If your Internet Service Provider (ISP) installed the wireless router or gateway, they might have left you a setup sheet which may have the credentials.
In order to cast from your device to your Chromecast, the device and the Chromecast should be connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
To help troubleshoot the problem we should check if other devices can connect to the wireless network.
If other wireless devices are connected to the network and functioning properly, chances are the router is OK. It's possible there is an environmental issue. Do you have a portable wireless device (Smart Phone, Tablet, Laptop, etc.) that you can put in the same area to test and see if that device's wireless connection still functions as intended in that location?
If you haven't already, please try power cycling the device you're working with. To do so, simply turn it off, wait 30 seconds and turn it back on again.
Although Chromecast is compatible with most networking equipment, some routers or gateways may cause issues when trying to connect your Chromecast to them. Usually when networking equipment does not work with Chromecast, it's because it lacks support for the network protocols that Chromecast uses to operate.
The table below covers networking equipment that has been found to cause issues for Chromecast users. Be aware that the majority of this list is made up of older networking equipment, but may still exist as part of a home network.
We try to keep this list up-to-date, but it is only indicative. If your router is on this list, you may need to contact the manufacturer for further details or replace your router or gateway with a more recent product.
MakeModel2 WireVariesActiontecM1000PK5000GT724WGGT701WG ADSLMI424WRApple AirportExpress 802.11nExtreme Base Station A1408ArrisTG862G/CTCisco1142NComcastSMCD3GNVLinksysE4200NetgearNighthawk N7000R6300WGT624v3TP-LinkArcher C7Verizon FiOSMI424-WR Rev EMI424WR-GEN2
Some wireless routers broadcast a dual-band wireless signal and provide both 2.4GHz and 5GHz wireless networks. Your device may not see the 5GHz network, which is completely normal. Not all devices contain the antenna to communicate on the 5GHz band. Also, some routers broadcast guest networks that your device may not be able to connect to depending on your router's settings.
The device needs to be within a reasonable range of the router in order to connect and have the best connection speeds.
The above numbers are approximates only. Optimal range may vary based on router make and model.
Your router may need to be relocated to a more centralized location in order to provide better coverage for all your devices.
Since this appears to be a range issue that can be resolved by putting the router in closer proximity to the device's intended use area, we recommend moving the router to a more centralized location.
If wireless signal is not reaching your device, and relocating your router or the device itself to be in closer proximity is not possible or doesn't resolve the issue, a great way to boost wireless signal without replacing existing equipment is to acquire and install a range extender. Range extenders work with your existing wireless router as a type of wireless repeater used to expand the reach of wireless signal in your home.