Many smartphone owners are familiar with the situation of needing to connect a new device to a wireless network but completely forgetting its password. Fortunately, modern mobile operating systems, particularly the Android-based MIUI user interface, often store data about previously connected networks in memory. This allows not only automatic connection to the router but also the ability to retrieve saved credentials for sharing with other devices.
Owners of brand devices Xiaomi and sub-brand Redmi They are at an advantage thanks to the MIUI shell's functionality, which provides convenient tools for managing network connections. However, the process of obtaining a password can vary significantly depending on the operating system version, access rights, and the specific smartphone model. In this article, we'll cover all current methods in detail, from standard system functions to more complex technical solutions.
It's worth noting that data security is a priority for Google, so viewing passwords in plain text was limited on stock Android versions. But engineers Xiaomi We've implemented our own mechanisms that allow users to see access keys without needing superuser rights, which significantly simplifies life in everyday use cases.
Using the QR code feature in MIUI settings
The easiest and most secure way to find the access key is available to users whose devices are running the latest versions of MIUI. The system generates a special QR code containing an encrypted connection string, including the password itself. This method doesn't require installing third-party software and works on most modern Redmi models.
To get started, open the standard settings menu and go to the Wi-Fi section. Find the network you're already logged into in the list and tap its name or the arrow next to it. A window with connection details will appear on the screen, including a QR code.
In some versions of the shell, a text password may be written under the code image. If there is no text, take a screenshot or use a second smartphone with a scanner app installed or the built-in QR code recognition function in the camera. After scanning the code, you will see a string in the format WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:MyPassword;;, where the character sequence after P: and there is the password we are looking for.
⚠️ Note: The ability to display the password as text under the QR code was introduced in newer versions of MIUI (usually starting with MIUI 11/12). On older versions, only a graphic image may be displayed.
It's important to understand that this method only works if your phone is currently connected to a network or has previously saved automatic connection information. If the network has been deleted from memory, the system will not be able to generate a valid passcode.
Viewing saved networks through system files
A more technically complex, but universal method involves direct access to a system file in which Android stores the configurations of all Wi-Fi networks ever connected. This file is called wpa_supplicant.conf and is located in a protected directory of the system.
To implement this method, you will need a file manager with root access to system partitions or using ADB commands from your computer. Without root access, you won't be able to access the folder. /data/misc/wifi/ will be blocked by the security system.
If your phone has Root rights, follow these steps:
- 📱 Open a file manager with Root support (for example, Root Explorer or MiXplorer).
- 📂 Follow the path
/data/misc/wifi/. - 📄 Find the file
wpa_supplicant.confand open it with a text editor. - 🔍 Look for blocks in the text
network, inside which in the fieldpskthe password is specified.
The structure of a file entry is as follows:
network={ssid="Home_WiFi"
psk="SuperSecretPassword123"
key_mgmt=WPA-PSK
}
There is a field here ssid denotes the network name, and psk contains the password you're looking for. Be extremely careful when working with system files: accidentally changing the syntax or deleting important lines can cause the Wi-Fi module on your device to malfunction.
Using Google Password Manager
The Google ecosystem offers password syncing via your account, which can be a lifesaver if you've previously agreed to store your data in the cloud. Since Android 10, Wi-Fi password syncing has become standard, and many users aren't even aware that their access keys are saved in their Google profile.
To check for saved data, go to your phone's Settings, select "Google," then "Autofill," then "Autofill by Google." In the "Passwords" menu, you'll find a list of all saved credentials, including Wi-Fi networks.
Once the desired network is found in the list, the system will ask you to verify your identity using biometrics (fingerprint, Face ID) or a screen unlock PIN. After successful authentication, you will be able to copy the password or view it in plain text.
The advantage of this method is that it doesn't require root access or a specific MIUI version. Data is stored in secure cloud storage and is accessible from any device logged in with your account. This is especially convenient if you need to connect a tablet or laptop but don't have your phone handy.
Using third-party applications from the Play Market
The Google Play Store offers numerous utilities that claim to reveal saved passwords. However, their functionality depends directly on the Android version and whether you have root access. On modern Android versions (10, 11, 12, 13, 14), apps without root access cannot read Wi-Fi system files for security reasons.
However, some apps have learned to bypass restrictions by using the Accessibility API or creating local hotspots to analyze traffic, although the latter methods are often blocked by antivirus software. Such apps are most useful on older devices or phones with an unlocked bootloader.
Popular types of applications for this task:
- 🔑 WiFi Password Viewer — requires root, displays a list of all networks and passwords in a user-friendly interface.
- 📡 WiFi Key Recovery — similar functionality, often used for backup of configurations.
- 🛡️ Solid Explorer — a powerful file manager that, with root access, allows you to manually open the system configuration.
When installing such apps, carefully read the permissions they request. If a program requests access to contacts or the microphone to "find passwords," this is a clear sign of malware. Use only trusted utilities with high ratings and numerous reviews.
⚠️ Warning: Most "magic" apps without root access on Android 10+ will only show the SSID (network name) but hide the password, replacing it with asterisks. Don't waste your time installing dubious software.
Comparison of access recovery methods
The best method depends on your technical expertise, Android version, and whether you have root access. For the average user who needs a quick connection, the QR code or Google Password Manager method is best. Advanced users can use access to system files.
The table below provides a comparison of the main characteristics of the methods considered:
| Method | Root is required | Android version | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR code in MIUI | No | Any (MIUI 11+) | Low |
| Google Passwords | No | Android 10+ | Low |
| wpa_supplicant file | Yes | Any | High |
| Third-party apps | Depends | Android 9 and below | Average |
As the table shows, Redmi owners are more fortunate than others thanks to the built-in QR code feature. This eliminates the need to delve into the file system. However, if the phone is older or running a custom firmware, more complex methods will be required.
☑️ Check before searching for a password
Login to the router's web interface
If none of the software methods on your phone work, there's always the hardware option: accessing the router's settings. To do this, your Redmi phone must be connected to a Wi-Fi network (even without internet) or connected to the router via a cable using an OTG adapter.
Open a browser on your smartphone and enter the router's IP address in the address bar. Standard addresses: 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.31.1 (for Xiaomi/Mi devices). The exact address is often written on a sticker on the bottom of the router.
After entering the address, the system will ask for the administrator login and password. By default, this is often admin/admin or admin/password, if you haven't changed them before. Once in the control panel, find the section Wireless or Wi-Fi SettingsThere in the field Wireless Password or Pre-Shared Key The current password will be indicated.
This method is guaranteed to work for any type of router (TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic, Xiaomi), as it relies on communication protocol standards, not on the specifics of the phone's operating system.
What should I do if I've changed my router password and forgotten it?
If you've changed your router's administrator password and forgotten it, the only solution is to reset the device to factory settings. To do this, locate the small hole labeled "Reset" on the router's body and press it with a paperclip for 10-15 seconds while the router is powered on. The router will reboot with the factory settings (the login and password will be on the sticker), but you'll have to reset your ISP settings.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if the phone has never connected to it?
No, it's impossible to use your phone's software to find the password for a network the device has never connected to and doesn't have access to. The only option is to view the password on another device that's already connected, or to access the router's settings.
Are password viewer apps safe to use?
Using highly rated apps from the official Google Play Market is generally safe. However, avoid downloading APK files from untrusted websites, as they may contain malicious code that can steal your data.
Why is there no share button or QR code on my Redmi?
The QR code generation feature has been available in MIUI since version 11. If you have an older version of MIUI or a global ROM with limited functionality, this option may not be available. In this case, try the Google Password Manager method.
Do you need root access to view password on Android 12?
Viewing passwords through system files is possible, but root access is not required to view them through Google Password Manager or the QR code feature in MIUI. Modern methods work without system intervention.
In conclusion, the Android ecosystem and MIUI shell provide ample tools for managing network connections. The key is to know where to look for the necessary settings and don't be afraid to experiment with secure methods like Google Sync or QR codes.