Several days ago confirmation of Google‘s Chromecast causing network problems for various routers have come to light. Many router manufacturers have issued advisories but ultimately, Google had to release a fix. The issue exists due to multicast DNS (MDNS) packets that are broadcast through Google Chromecast in large quantities. Plus, it happens at a very high speed in a short amount of time. MDNS packets are normally sent in a 20-second interval. This occurs when the device is awakened from the “sleep mode”, and could exceed more than 100,000 packets in a short period of time. The longer your device is in ‘sleep’, the larger this packet burst will be according to the FAQ from TP-Link. “This issue then eventually leads some of the router’s primary features to shut down – including wireless connectivity,” it concludes.
Update Devices via Google Play Store
From the most recent update on Google Home, thankfully there is now an update available. According to Google, this usually impacts those with an Android phone and a Chromecast built-in device (such as a Chromecast or Google Home device) on the same Wi-Fi network. The update is for Google Play services with the latest version called ‘v11.9.74 beta’ under the Play Store. Even with the Google update, they also suggest updating your router’s firmware. This will ensure that the network is secure on all points.
