Google Chromecast is a very useful tool for both the living room and the boardroom. Setup typically requires access to a Wi-Fi network, but it’s possible to operate Chromecast without Wi-Fi.
Chromecast is a small, relatively inexpensive device designed to connect directly to your display’s HDMI port, effectively turning your display into a smart TV. Other devices that can cast content, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops, can connect to Chromecast to stream content to your display. Chromecast can be used as a temporary solution while traveling or as a permanent fixture in your home or conference room.
Chromecast is especially useful in conference rooms that don’t have dedicated video conferencing equipment. This can be a more affordable option for small businesses in today’s world of hybrid meetings.
Chromecast is usually set up to connect to your Wi-Fi network, but what if you can’t connect to your network? Fortunately, there is a workaround.
How to use Chromecast without Wi-Fi: Guest mode
To connect to Chromecast without using a Wi-Fi network, you need to make sure your device supports this.
To allow as many devices as possible to connect to your Chromecast, your Chromecast must be running the latest software and firmware. The first solution uses a “guest mode” feature that is not available in older versions of Chromecast firmware.
How to enable guest mode
(Image: ©ITPro)
- Open the settings menu on your Android smartphone
- Go to the “Google” section
- Select “Share with devices” from the list
- Select “Cast Options” from the list that follows
- Tap the “Guest Mode” switch to the “On” position
This activates the Wi-Fi beacon contained within your Chromecast, making it discoverable by apps that are compatible with Chromecast streaming. When a device running the app connects to Chromecast, it casts the[Chromecast にキャスト]Options are displayed to the user.
This automatic pairing is made possible by emitting short audio signals that are inaudible to humans. This audio signal contains a 4-digit code that is picked up by nearby devices. However, this may prove to be an unreliable connection method, and if it doesn’t work, guests can still connect manually by entering the code displayed on the TV or monitor they are casting to. Masu.
How to use Chromecast without Wi-Fi: Google Home app
If using Guest Mode doesn’t work, try streaming your Android device’s display feed directly to your Chromecast using the Google Home app. Do this:
- Open the Google Home app on your Android device.
- Press and hold the Chromecast icon you want.
- Tap Cast, then tap Cast Screen.
Screen mirroring works differently than wireless displays (which have been part of Android since Jelly Bean 4.2). This is because the resulting output has less lag and stutter than a wireless display. Screen mirroring with Chromecast requires Android 8.0 or later, which is beyond the oldest supported builds of Android, so Android users may want to use a compatible version.
How to use Chromecast without Wi-Fi: Ethernet cables and adapters
The third solution for using Chromecast without Wi-Fi is to use an Ethernet cable.
However, this only works if you have access to an Ethernet adapter that supports both power delivery and network connectivity. This wired connection creates a fast and reliable link to your Chromecast device. You need to follow these steps:
- Connect the USB end of your Ethernet adapter to your Chromecast.
- Connect an Ethernet cable to the adapter’s port and connect it to a router or another type of access point.
- Make sure the adapter is plugged into a power outlet.
Once this is all done, your Chromecast device will be automatically set up to use your Ethernet connection instead of your Wi-Fi network.
