How to Use a Chromecast Without WiFi
We’ll show you a few easy workarounds
If you don’t have a smart TV,Google Chromecastoffers an alternative way for you to access online content on a TV.
The handy little devicehooks up to your TV via HDMIand uses WiFi to cast content from your phone to a TV or monitor. But that’s not all, there are many othercool things you can do with a Chromecastincluding playing games and making presentations.
However, if your WiFi is weak, spotty, or you’re nowhere close to asource of wireless internet, you won’t be able to use your Chromecast device to cast your content. Fortunately, there are some alternative ways you can use Chromecast without WiFi.
How to Use Chromecast Without WiFi
You can use Chromecast tocast your favorite content from your phone to your TVwithout a normal WiFi setup by using:
How to Use Chromecast Without WiFi Via Guest Mode
Guest Modeis a feature in Chromecast that was originally intended for guests in your home to connect to your Chromecast device and cast content, without connecting to your WiFi. The feature offers an easy way for you to connect to your Chromecast device without a WiFi connection.
Newer Chromecast models can transmit a WiFi and Bluetooth signal that broadcasts a PIN via short inaudible audio tones. This way, anyone who tries to cast to the device but isn’t registered on your WiFi network can use the PIN to connect and stream content from their device to Chromecast.
Use Chromecast Without WiFi from a Google Cast-ready App
If you don’t have Guest Mode, you can always cast from a Google Cast-ready app and enjoy your favorite content without worrying about WiFi.
Using an Ethernet Connection
Another way to use Chromecast without WiFi is by connecting anEthernetcable.
This method is helpful where your only options are local WiFi hotspots or hotel internet if you’re traveling. In such cases,two-factor authentication, which uses browser functionality plus acceptance of certain terms and conditions, is required before you can access the WiFi.
Chromecast doesn’t have browser functionality so you won’t be able to stream content. With an Ethernet connection, however, you can connect to the internet and cast from your device to Chromecast.
For this method to work, you’ll need an Ethernet cable with a USB connection on the other end. If you’re using Chromecast Ultra, plug in the Ethernet cable into the Ethernet power adapter, and then connect the USB cable to the Chromecast. Once done, plug into the active Ethernet jack and cast content as you normally would.
Note: If you have the new Android-TV powered Chromecast, it lacks Ethernet support but you can buy a specialpower and Ethernet adapterfor that purpose. The Ethernet power adapter isn’t included with older Chromecast models, but you can buy a third-party adapter like theCable Matters micro USB to Ethernet adapterorUGREEN Ethernet adapter.
How to Use Chromecast with a Travel/Portable Router
A portable or travel router is a great alternative if you don’t have WiFi and want to cast content to your Chromecast device. Plus, it’s safer to use your own router compared to a local WiFi hotspot or hotel WiFi as you have more privacy,control over who can access your network, and you there are no public WiFi agreements to accept.
To use this method, you need to set up the router first,assign it an SSID(network name) and password, and then connect your Chromecast to the router via the Chromecast app on your device.
If you’re staying in a hotel, connect the router to the Ethernet connection and connect the other end to a power outlet so it doesn’t go off while you’re enjoying your favorite content. You may need to use the hotel TV’s settings menu to choose your router and enter the password.
Note: If you don’t see the router, enter the SSID and password manually through the device’s network settings. Once connected, the TV will be listed as a streaming destination via Chromecast app, and you can stream content from your device.
Use Your Smartphone’s Hotspot
If you can’t use any of the methods we’ve covered so far, you can stilluse your smartphone’s hotspotto cast content on Chromecast without WiFi.
To do this, you’ll need to enable the hotspot option on your smartphone so it can serve as the router. However, you’ll need a second device to join the network and connect to your Chromecast.
How to Use a Chromecast Without WiFi Via a Third-Party Service
A third-party service is a good alternative to use a Chromecast without WiFi especially if you have an iPhone, Mac, or the other methods aren’t working for you.
One of the best apps for this purpose isConnectify Hotspot, which allows you to share your computer’s WiFi or wired internet connection as a WLAN (wireless local area network) hotspot location.
Set Up Chromecast Without WiFi
Whether you’re traveling or can’t access WiFi for some reason, there are plenty of options that can provide a wireless internet connection so you can continue enjoying your favorite content.
If you’re having issues with your Chromecast device, check out our guide onhow to reset a Chromecast.
Were you able to stream your content via Chromecast without WiFi? Share your experience in a comment.
Elsie is a technology writer and editor with a special focus on Windows, Android and iOS. She writes about software, electronics and other tech subjects, her ultimate goal being to help people out with useful solutions to their daily tech issues in a simple, straightforward and unbiased style. She has a BCom degree in Marketing and currently pursuing her Masters in Communications and New Media.Read Elsie’s Full Bio
Leave a Reply
Your email address will not be published.Required fields are marked*
Comment*
Name*
Email*
Website
Welcome to Help Desk Geek- a blog full of tech tips from trusted tech experts. We have thousands of articles and guides to help you troubleshoot any issue. Our articles have been read over 150 million times since we launched in 2008.
HomeAbout UsEditorial StandardsContact UsTerms of Use
Copyright © 2008-2024 Help Desk Geek.com, LLC All Rights Reserved