Redmi smartphone owners often find themselves in a situation where they need to connect a new device to their home network, but the password has been forgotten or lost. Fortunately, modern MIUI and HyperOS skins make it easy. restore access Access to saved data without complex manipulation. This is a built-in security feature that significantly simplifies life for Xiaomi ecosystem users.
There are several proven methods for finding a forgotten character combination. You can use the standard system interface, the sharing feature, or even third-party applications if the standard methods don't work. It's important to understand that to view text password You will most likely need to verify your identity through biometrics or a screen unlock PIN.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all the current data recovery methods for wireless networks. We'll cover both standard system tools and workarounds that can help in unusual situations. Read carefully to choose the method that's right for your firmware version.
Viewing your password through MIUI and HyperOS settings
The easiest and most reliable way to retrieve forgotten data is to use the built-in functionality of the shell. Starting with MIUI 10 and newer, as well as in the current HyperOSThe system not only allows you to share access but also see the secret phrase itself. To do this, you need to have an active connection to the network whose password you want to know, or at least have a profile saved on your phone.
Go to your device's settings menu. Find the section responsible for wireless connections. Depending on your firmware version, it may be called "Wi-Fi" or "Wireless Networks." Tap the name of the network you're currently connected to or the arrow next to a saved profile.
On the screen that opens, you'll see a QR code for quickly connecting other devices. Below this code is often (but not always) a text password. If there's no text below the code, look for a "Share" button or an eye icon. Tapping it will require identity verificationAfter successful verification, the system will show you the required character combination.
⚠️ Attention: On some global MIUI firmware versions, the password text may be hidden even after tapping the QR code. In this case, the system will only prompt you to scan the code with another device, but will not display the numbers and letters explicitly.
This method is the most secure, as it doesn't require installing any additional software. It uses system resources, ensuring no viruses or data leaks. However, if the interface doesn't allow you to view the text, you'll have to resort to other methods.
Using a QR code to connect other devices
If your primary goal is simply to connect a laptop or tablet, and not necessarily to obtain a text string, the QR code feature is ideal. It allows for instant transmission of encrypted access data. A modern smartphone camera or the built-in scanner on another device can easily read this code.
To implement this method, follow these steps:
- 📱 Open WiFi settings on your Redmi and tap on your active network.
- 📸 Take a screenshot of the screen with the QR code or click the "Share" button.
- 👁️ Use Google Lens or any QR scanner on the second device.
- 🔗 Click "Connect" in the notification that appears on the second device.
This approach is especially useful when connecting devices that are difficult to enter characters on manually, such as Smart TV or game consoles. Many Xiaomi and Redmi TVs have a built-in QR code scanning function right in the network connection menu.
It's important to note that the QR code contains all the necessary information, including the encryption type (usually WPA2/WPA3) and the password itself. This makes the process as automated as possible. You don't need to worry about keyboard layout or case sensitivity.
Restoring access via Google Account
The Android operating system has a powerful syncing mechanism. If you have Google sync enabled on your Redmi, all saved WiFi passwords can be backed up to cloud storage. This allows you to access your data even from another device, such as a computer or tablet.
To check for saved data, go to the path Settings → Google → Autofill → Autofill from GoogleIn this section, select "Passwords." Here you'll see a list of all saved logins and passwords, including those for wireless networks.
Find your network name (SSID) in the list. Tap it. The system will ask you to verify your identity with your fingerprint or Face ID. You'll then see your login (network name) and a button to display the password. This is a universal method that works regardless of the MIUI version.
⚠️ Attention: Google Account data may be delayed in updating. If you recently changed your router password, an older version may still be stored in the cloud. Always check to make sure your information is up-to-date.
The advantage of this method is its cross-platform compatibility. You can find the password not only on your Redmi phone, but also by logging into your Google account from any browser on your PC. This makes this method extremely convenient for home network administration.
Checking via the router's web interface
If your smartphone can't display the password due to system restrictions, there's always a backdoor—the router's settings. Since your Redmi is already connected to the network (or was previously connected), you have physical access to the local network, allowing you to access the router's control panel.
To do this, you'll need a browser. Enter the router's IP address in the address bar. Most often, this is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1The exact address, as well as the login and password for accessing the admin panel, are usually indicated on a sticker on the bottom of the device.
After authorization (standard data is often admin/admin) find the section related to wireless mode. It may be called Wireless, WLAN or "Wireless Network." Under the "Security" subsection, you'll see a password field. You can view it in plain text or change it to a new one.
Below is a table of addresses and login details for popular routers:
| Router brand | IP address | Default login | Default password |
|---|---|---|---|
| Xiaomi / Redmi | 192.168.31.1 | admin | (not available or indicated on the sticker) |
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | admin | admin |
| ASUS | 192.168.1.1 | admin | admin |
| Keenetic | 192.168.1.1 | admin | admin |
Using the web interface gives you complete control. Not only will you know the password, but you can also change the network name, encryption type, and restrict access by unauthorized devices. This is the best way to customize your security in-depth.
What should I do if the default router password doesn't work?
Most likely, it was changed earlier. In this case, the only solution is a full reset of the router to factory settings (Reset button on the router), after which you'll need to reconfigure the internet.
Third-party applications and their limitations
There are numerous apps on the Play Market that promise to reveal saved WiFi passwords. However, on modern versions of Android (starting from 10), the security system has significantly limited app access to the system files where this data is stored. Most of these apps only work on devices with root rights.
If your Redmi doesn't have root access, the functionality of these apps will be limited. They may display a QR code (if the system allows it) or prompt you to guess the password from a database of common combinations, which rarely helps with home networks. Popular apps like WiFi Password Viewer or WiFi Map often require root access to display real data.
Using third-party software carries certain risks. You grant the application access to sensitive data on your network. Attackers can use such programs to steal information. Using root rights to view passwords through a third-party application is not recommended for regular users. due to a decrease in the overall security of the device.
If you decide to use such software, read reviews carefully and check permissions. It's better to choose open-source programs or those from reputable developers. But remember that MIUI's built-in methods are much more effective and secure.
☑️ Security check before installing apps
What to do if nothing helps
In rare cases, none of the software methods work. This may be due to deep errors in the system, corrupted configuration files, or specific limitations of corporate networks. In such cases, physical access to the equipment remains.
Find the router itself. If your computer is connected to it via cable, you can view the password in Windows network settings. To do this, open the Network and Sharing Center, click on the wireless network properties, go to the Security tab, and check the box next to "Show characters as you type."
If there are no computers and the phone doesn't display the password, the last option is to reset the router. There's a small hole on the device's body with the inscription ResetPress it with a paperclip for 10-15 seconds. The router will reboot to factory settings. The password will be the one written on the sticker underneath.
⚠️ Attention: Resetting your router will result in the loss of all your provider settings. Make sure you know your connection type (PPPoE, L2TP, Dynamic IP) and have your contract with your provider to reset your internet settings.
This method is radical, but guaranteed to work. After resetting, you can set a new, complex password and remember it to avoid similar situations in the future. Write the new information down in a safe place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the WiFi password if I'm not currently connected to that network?
Yes, if your Redmi has previously connected to this network and saved the profile. Go to WiFi settings, find the network in the list of saved networks (sometimes you need to tap "Add network" or look through the list of known networks), and try to view its properties. If the profile has been deleted, you won't be able to find the password without access to the router or another connected device.
Are WiFi hacking apps safe to use?
No, such apps often contain malicious code. Furthermore, connecting to other people's networks without the owner's permission is illegal. Use only legal methods to recover your own data.
Why is there no share button or QR code on my Redmi?
This may be related to your MIUI version. On very old versions (MIUI 9 and below) or some custom builds, this feature may not be available. In this case, try updating the system or using a Google Account.
Where are WiFi passwords stored in the Android file system?
Technically they are in the file wpa_supplicant.conf in the system partition. However, access to this file is restricted without root access. Attempting to access system files without proper knowledge may result in unstable phone operation.