As if Google’s problems with the Pixel 2XL were not enough, it is battling with issues reported on its Chromecast. As reported by customers, the Wi-Fi connection on which their Google Chromecast is linked has been crashing. Router suppliers have sent patches to customers to try and stabilize the system. The issue has been identified as related to the ‘Cast’ feature and in addition to Chromecast, some Google Home devices have also been affected.
The issue is being explained by the phenomenon of too many packets being broadcast all at one time. The multicast DNS (MDNS) packets numbering around 100,000 are usually sent in intervals of 20 seconds. However, when the Chromecast device is inactive or in sleep mode and is ‘awakened’, these packets are transmitted in one go and cause this issue. It has also been noticed that if the device stays in the sleep mode for a longer duration, then the amount of data going through is higher and it tends to shut down the router’s primary functions. Router makers like TP-Link, Netgear and Linksys have all been sending out firmware updates to tackle this issue.
Chromecast users have been all over the place giving out details of the issues they have been encountering and it does appear to be quite significant. Some have indicated all their connected devices are facing problems and Chromecast Audio also has been reported to be having issues. Google’s trouble shooting team appears to be working on resolving the issue. They have posted certain details on the official Product Forums, particularly with regards to one of the earlier suspicions that the Archer C7 powered network was responsible for this issue. They have ruled that out. They have also been asking customers to post the details with screenshots so that they can work on them from their end.
For temporary relief, they have even advised users to reboot the router so that the memory can be released and the choking of network can be averted.