can I use chromecast to view pictures on a thumb drive?

[Uncommon_Sense]

@Ornery_Bob

So the chromebook knows that the chromecast exists.

No it does not. It assumes there is a chromecast that you will want to be connecting to at some point, but it definitely does NOT see your chromecast device. I know this for certain because it can’t possibly see the chromecast unless the chromecast is showing that it’s connected to your network.

Go to this page and notice where it says “If you do not have access to a phone or tablet, you can download the setup utility for your computer.”

Download the setup utility onto your laptop and run the setup.

I’m 99% certain that I can see my chromecast (when the tv it’s plugged into is on) even if the wifi is down for some reason. Local outage or locked up router…
My daughter tried to connect to it once IIRC.