It's quite common to need to connect a new device to a wireless network but lose or forget the access key. Fortunately, modern smartphones running the operating system Android have a built-in network settings storage feature, making it easy to retrieve the information you need. Previously, this required root rights, but in current versions of the OS the process is significantly simplified.
The location of the stored data depends on the firmware version and the manufacturer's shell. Device owners can find the required code in the standard settings menu or through special service codes. Understanding where this data is stored eliminates the need to reset the router to factory settings.
In this article, we'll detail the steps for various operating system versions. You'll learn how to visualize the hidden key using QR codes or system utilities. This will save you time when setting up a home network or connecting guests.
The standard method through settings for Android 10 and newer
Starting with the tenth version of the operating system, Google has introduced a convenient mechanism for exchanging data through QR codesThis method is the simplest and doesn't require installing any third-party software. Simply go to the appropriate menu section to see the pattern lock.
To begin, open your gadget's settings and go to the section Connections or Network and InternetThe names may vary depending on the manufacturer, for example, Samsung, Xiaomi or Huawei use different terminology. Find the point Wi-Fi and click on it.
From the list of available networks, select one you're already connected to, or tap the gear icon next to its name. Detailed connection information will open. If you have the latest software version, you'll see a "Share" button or a QR code icon.
- 📱 Click on the name of the active network to open connection details.
- 🔍 Look for the QR code icon or the "Share" button in the menu that opens.
- 👁️ View the code below the image or scan it with another device.
- 🔒 To view the text, you may need to confirm it with a fingerprint scanner or PIN code.
Often the password is displayed in plain text directly below the QR code. If you only see an image, try taking a screenshot and then scanning it with Google Lens Or use the standard code scanner in the gallery. This will allow you to read the encrypted string and access the data.
⚠️ Note: On some shells (for example, older versions MIUI or EMUI) The password text may be hidden. In this case, use a third-party scanner app that can recognize text from images to scan the QR code.
Using the Developer Options and USB Debugging
If the standard interface doesn't allow you to view saved data, you can use the system's advanced features. Developer mode provides access to logs and configuration files where network information is stored. However, this method requires caution.
To activate the hidden menu, you need to go to the section About the phone in the settings. Find the line Build number and quickly press it 7-10 times in a row. The system will inform you that you have become a developer. After this, a new option will appear in the main settings menu. For developers.
Inside this menu you should find the option USB debugging and activate it. This will allow the computer to interact with the phone on a deep level. You'll need a cable and the package installed on your PC. ADB (Android Debug Bridge).
adb pull /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf c:/wifi-config.txtRunning the command will copy the configuration file to your computer. If you open it with any text editor, you'll find the following lines: ssid (network name) and psk (password). Please note that on modern encrypted devices, this file may not be accessible without root privileges.
Why might the file be empty?
On devices running Android 10 and above, access to the wpa_supplicant.conf file for regular apps and even via ADB without root access is often blocked by the security system. In this case, this method will only work on very old models or after root access.
Viewing system files without root rights
Owners of devices with older versions of the operating system (before Android 10) can try finding the configuration file directly through a file manager. This method works if your device has access to system folders or if the manufacturer hasn't restricted access rights.
Using the built-in file explorer or a third-party file manager such as Total Commander or ES File Explorer, follow the path /data/misc/wifi/The file should be located here. wpa_supplicant.confTrying to open it with a text editor may give a result.
Inside the file, look for blocks that begin with the word network. Parameters will be specified inside each block. ssid And psk. It is the meaning psk and is the desired security key for your wireless network.
| Parameter | Description | Example of meaning |
|---|---|---|
ssid |
Wireless network name | Home_WiFi_5G |
psk |
Security key (password) | MySecretPass123 |
key_mgmt |
Encryption type | WPA-PSK |
priority |
Connection priority | 1 |
It's worth noting that on most modern smartphones, this file is hidden from the user. The system protects it to prevent data leakage by malware. If the file doesn't open or is empty, it means there's no root rights This method will not work.
The specifics of Xiaomi, Samsung, and Huawei shells
Chinese and Korean manufacturers often modify the standard interface. Android, adding their own unique features. This includes wireless connection management. Owners of popular brands can find the information they need faster thanks to optimized menus.
Devices Xiaomi (shell MIUI or HyperOS) allow you to see the password immediately after the QR code is generated. The text is displayed below the image, making the process as transparent as possible. In some cases, identity verification is required by unlocking the screen.
Smartphones Samsung with shell One UI They also support the "Share" feature. Tapping an active connection will reveal a QR code, along with a text string containing the key. If the text is hidden by dots, try tapping the eye icon, if available in your software version.
- 🔸 Xiaomi: Tap the Wi-Fi icon in the notification shade, then tap the network name.
- 🔸 Samsung: Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi → Tap the current network.
- 🔸 Huawei/Honor: Settings → Wi-Fi → Tap the configuration icon next to the name.
It's important to keep in mind that interfaces are subject to update. If you don't see the items described, check for system updates. Manufacturers regularly change the layout of controls to improve the user experience.
⚠️ Note: Shell interfaces may change depending on the software update version. If the paths described don't match your screen, use the settings search by entering "Wi-Fi" or "Network."
☑️ Check before changing your password
Third-party apps for access recovery
When built-in tools don't help, specialized applications from the store come to the rescue. Google PlayThey scan saved configurations and display them in a convenient format. However, be careful: many of them require extensive permissions.
One of the popular solutions is the application WiFi Password Viewer or similar. After installation and launch, the program will request access to the storage or special rights. If you have root rights, the application will show a complete list of all networks ever saved.
Without superuser rights, the functionality of such programs is limited. They can only display a QR code for the current connection using the standard system API. This is a useful feature, but it duplicates the capabilities built into the app itself. Android.
When installing such apps, pay attention to permissions. Don't grant access to your contacts, microphone, or camera if the password viewer requests these details. This could be a sign of malware.
What to do if your password isn't displayed anywhere
There are situations when none of these methods work. This may be due to the company's security policy if the phone is corporate-owned, or to significant manufacturer restrictions. In such cases, there's only one reliable option left.
You'll need physical access to the router. On the back of the device, there's usually a sticker with the factory-set username and password for logging into the web interface or for the default connection. If you've previously changed these details, you'll need to reset the router.
To reset, find the button Reset (often recessed into the case) and press it for 10-15 seconds while the power is on. After rebooting, the router will return to factory settings, and you'll be able to connect using the information on the sticker. Don't forget to set up security again.
You can also try logging into the router's admin panel through a browser if you remember the password. The address is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. In the wireless network section (Wireless) you can view or change the security key.
Is it possible to hack someone else's Wi-Fi using such apps?
No, password viewer apps only show networks your phone has previously connected to and saved data from. They can't guess or crack other people's passwords, as this is illegal and technically difficult without access to a handshake and powerful equipment.
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if the phone is not connected to this network?
No, if the device has never connected to the network, the password is not stored in its memory. You can see a list of available networks, but the key is required to connect. If your phone is connected but you want to find the password for another device, use the QR code method.
Where are Wi-Fi passwords stored in my Google account?
Google syncs Wi-Fi passwords through the Google Passwords feature (formerly Smart Lock). You can check them at passwords.google.com or in your Google account settings on your phone under "Security" → "Password Manager." There you'll find saved keys for the networks you've connected to.
Are password viewer apps safe to use?
Using verified apps from the official store Google Play It's relatively safe. However, avoid apps that require suspicious permissions. The best option is to use the built-in features of Android 10+, as they don't require sharing data with third parties.
What is wpa_supplicant.conf?
This is a system file in Linux and Android operating systems that stores wireless network configurations, including names (SSID) and passwords (PSK). Access to it is restricted to superuser privileges to protect confidential information.
Why is there no QR code button on my phone?
This feature was introduced in Android 10. If you have an older version of the system or your phone manufacturer (or operating system) hasn't implemented this feature, the button won't appear. In this case, third-party apps or access to your router settings will help.