To connect a Google Home or Nest speaker to a new Wi-Fi network, open the Google Home app, tap the device, tap the Settings gear, then go to Device information > Wi-Fi and tap Forget (or Forget this network). Then set the device up again: tap + > Add device > Google Nest or partner device, and choose your new network. If you already replaced your router, the easiest shortcut is giving the new Wi-Fi the same name and password as the old one, so every device reconnects on its own.
Here’s each method, step by step, and what to do if the device won’t connect.
Shortcut: reuse your old Wi-Fi name and password
When setting up a new router, give its Wi-Fi network the exact same name (SSID) and password as your old one, including capital letters. Google Home, Nest speakers, and most other smart devices reconnect automatically, with no setup needed.
How to move a Google Home to a new Wi-Fi network
Step 1: Forget the old network
- Open the Google Home app on your phone.
- Tap the speaker or display, then the Settings gear.
- Tap Device information.
- Under Wi-Fi, tap Forget, then confirm.
If the old router is already gone and the device shows as offline, you may not see this option. In that case, skip to Step 2. If setup doesn’t find the device, factory reset it (see below).
Step 2: Set it up on the new network
- Make sure your phone is connected to the new Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is on.
- In the Google Home app, tap + > Add device > Google Nest or partner device.
- Choose your home, then select the device when it’s found.
- Choose the new Wi-Fi network, enter the password, and finish setup.
If your Google Home won’t connect
- Factory reset the device: On most Google Home and Nest speakers, press and hold the reset button or the microphone mute button, or touch and hold the top, for about 15 seconds until you hear it reset. The exact method depends on the model.
- Use the 2.4 GHz band if your router has separate network names, since some older devices connect more reliably on it.
- Move closer to the router during setup.
- Update the Google Home app and allow location and Bluetooth permissions.
Once your speaker is online, you can pair a phone to it. See how to connect Bluetooth to Google Home.
Related: add a Google Wifi point.
Related: Play music on all your Google Home speakers.
Related: Set up Google Wifi or Nest Wifi.
Related: Reset a Google Home Mini or Nest Mini.
Related: Connect a Chromecast to Wi-Fi.
Related: Unpause Google Wifi.
Related: Play music on Google Home from your phone.
Frequently asked questions
Do I lose my settings when I change Wi-Fi?
Forgetting the network keeps the device in your home. A factory reset erases its settings, so you’ll need to set it up again.
Can I change the Wi-Fi without the app?
No. You need the Google Home app on a phone or tablet.
Why is my device offline after changing routers?
It’s still trying to connect to the old network. Use the same Wi-Fi name and password, or set it up again.
Does this work for Chromecast too?
Yes. Chromecast devices use the same steps in the Google Home app.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.