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Google Cast Enabled Devices Causing WiFi Routers To Crash

Due to a technical issue several lines of Google Home devices are causing networks to crash when coming out of rest mode.

Blake Morse

January 16, 2018 5:00 PM

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It appears the Google's line of Cast-enabled devices has been causing issues with wi-fi networks. Everything from their Chromecast to their Google Home Max seems to have an issue where it floods networks with packets when they come out of their respective rest modes. When the Cast-enabled device wakes, it could send as many as 100,000 packets or more before letting the network go depending on how long it was asleep. As the packets flood the network, they essentially slow down connectivity for any other devices trying to connect to the point that they may as well be dropped. 

Router manufacturers including well-known brands like Asus, Netgear, and Linksys were flooded with complaints from customers over the problem and are working on firmware updates to solve the issue. TP-Link has also stated that users can reboot the affected device(s) in order to release its memory or simply deactivate Cast on Android-enabled devices. 

Speaking to Engadget, a Google rep stated: "We're aware that a small number of users are having issues and our team is working quickly to share a solution."

In the meantime, consumers who think they may be having issues related to the packet bursts are urged to check for firmware updates for their routers.

Blake Morse

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Blake has been writing and making videos about pop-culture and games for over 10 years now. Although he'd probably prefer you thought of him as a musician and listened to his band, www.cartoonviolencemusic.com. If you see him on the street, buy him a taco or something. Follow him on twitter @ProfRobot