Forgot your home Wi-Fi or guest network password, but need to connect urgently? It's a familiar situation: the router was set up a long time ago, the password was written down on a piece of paper that keeps disappearing, and turning the device over to find the sticker with the data isn't always convenient. Fortunately, modern smartphones Android And iOS offer several legal ways to connect to Wi-Fi without entering a password - from using QR codes to functions for fast data exchange between devices.
In this article we will look at 5 proven methods, which work on most devices, including Samsung Galaxy, iPhone 12/13/14/15, Xiaomi Redmi and other popular models. Important: all the methods described are legal and do not require network hacking—they utilize built-in operating system features or wireless network standards. If you're looking for information on hacking other people's access points— Such actions are prohibited by law in most countries and may result in criminal liability..
Before you begin, make sure that:
- 📶 You are within the coverage area of a Wi-Fi network (signal level is not lower than 2-3 bars).
- 🔒 The network does not use a hidden SSID (if so, connecting without a password is impossible).
- 📱 Wi-Fi is enabled on your phone (check the Quick Settings panel).
1. Connection via QR code (the fastest way)
Modern routers and smartphones support generating QR codes for connecting to Wi-Fi. This method works if you already have one device (such as a laptop or tablet) connected to the network, or if the router has a sticker with a QR code.
How does this work:
- On a device that is already connected to Wi-Fi, generate a QR code:
- 🤖 On Android: go to
Settings → Wi-Fi → Network name → Share(or "QR code"). - 🍎 On iPhone: open the application "Camera", point it at the network's QR code (if your router has one) or use third-party apps like QR Code Generator.
- 🤖 On Android: go to
Settings → Wi-Fi → Add network → QR code.If you don't have a QR code, but have access to the router's web interface (via a connected device), you can generate one yourself. For example, on routers TP-Link or ASUS go to Wireless Mode → Wi-Fi QR Code.
2. Using WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)
WPS — is a fast Wi-Fi connection standard that allows you to connect to a network without entering a password. This method works if:
- 🔄 WPS is enabled on the router (usually this is a button on the case or an option in the web interface).
- 📱 Your phone supports WPS (on iPhone this method doesn't work).
Instructions for Android:
- Go to
Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → WPS(the path may differ depending on the OS version). - Click Connect via WPS.
- Within 2 minutes, press the WPS button on the router (or activate the function in its settings).
What to do if WPS doesn't work?
If the connection does not occur after pressing the button, check:
- Is WPS enabled in the router settings?192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
- Has the timeout expired (usually 120 seconds).
- Does your phone support WPS (on some models Samsung And Huawei (the function is disabled by default).
⚠️ Note: WPS is considered less secure than a standard password, as it is vulnerable to brute-force attacks. After connecting, we recommend disabling WPS in your router settings.
3. Transfer data between devices (Android → Android or iPhone → iPhone)
If you already have a device (phone, tablet) connected to the desired Wi-Fi network, you can "transfer" access to another device without entering a password. The methods differ depending on Android And iOS.
For Android (Nearby Share)
Starting from Android 10, the system has a built-in Wi-Fi data exchange function:
- On the connected device, open
Settings → Wi-Fi → Network name → Share. - Select Share Password and confirm the action (you may need a PIN or fingerprint).
- A notification will appear on the second phone asking you to connect to the network.
For iPhone (Quick Connect feature)
On iOS the process is even simpler:
- Place both iPhone nearby (turn on Bluetooth and Wi-Fi).
- On an unconnected device, select the desired network from the Wi-Fi list.
- A pop-up window with an offer will appear on the connected phone. Share Wi-Fi - click "Ready".
This method only works between devices. Apple (iPhone, iPad, Mac) or Android (Depending on OS version). Cross-platform sharing (Android ↔ iOS) is only possible via QR code or third-party apps.
4. Connecting via saved networks (if the phone was already in this network)
If your phone previously connected to this Wi-Fi network but has now "forgotten" it (for example, after a factory reset), the password may have been saved in a backup or cloud account. Here's how to recover it:
For Android
- 🔍 Check it out
Settings → System → BackupIf reservation is enabled in Google Account, networks can be restored automatically after login. - 📄 On some firmware (for example, MIUI on Xiaomi) passwords are saved in
Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Saved networks.
For iPhone
On iOS passwords are synchronized via iCloud Keychain:
- Go to
Settings → [Your name] → iCloud → Keychainand make sure the feature is enabled. - If the network was previously saved, it will appear in the list of available networks after restarting the phone.
⚠️ Attention: On Android Starting with version 10, Wi-Fi passwords are not displayed in plain text by default (root permissions are required to view them). iPhone It is impossible to view saved passwords without jailbreak.
5. Alternative methods (for advanced users)
If standard methods don't work, you can try the following options. They require additional steps or equipment, but sometimes they prove to be the only solution.
Method 1: Connecting via an Ethernet adapter (for Android)
Some phones (eg. Samsung Galaxy S/Note series or Google Pixel) support connection via USB-Ethernet adapterIf you have access to the router via cable:
- Connect the adapter to your phone and the router's network port.
- IN
Settings → Networks and Internet → Ethernetturn on the option. - Once connected to the local network, you will be able to log into the router's web interface (
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1) and view/change the Wi-Fi password.
Method 2: Using Router Management Apps
Router manufacturers (TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic) release official apps for network management. If you're connected to the router via cable or another device:
- 📱 Install the application (for example, TP-Link Tether or ASUS Router).
- 🔑 Log in and find the section Wireless Network — there will be a password.
| Method | Required conditions | Complexity | Does it work on iOS? |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR code | A device with network access or a sticker on the router | ⭐ | Yes |
| WPS | A router with WPS and an Android phone | ⭐⭐ | No |
| Exchange between devices | Two devices on the same OS (Android or iOS) | ⭐ | Yes (iOS→iOS only) |
| Saved networks | The phone was previously connected to the network | ⭐⭐ | Yes (only via iCloud) |
| Ethernet adapter | Adapter, access to the router via cable | ⭐⭐⭐ | No |
Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on on your phone | Check that the router recognizes the device (the indicators are on) | If you are using WPS, press the button on the router within 2 minutes | For the QR code, make sure the phone camera is not covered by a protective glass-->
What to do if nothing works?
If none of the methods helped, the following options remain:
- 🔧 Resetting the router: Press and hold the button
ResetOn the router, wait 10-15 seconds. After this, the network will become open (without a password), but all settings will be reset to factory defaults. This method should only be used as a last resort as it will disconnect all network users.. - 📞 Contact your providerIf the router is rented from an Internet provider, the password may be specified in the contract or personal account.
- 🛠️ Use a backup copy: If you have a backup of your phone (for example, in Google Drive or iCloud), try to restore the network settings from it.
⚠️ Warning: If the network doesn't belong to you (for example, a neighbor's or office network), connecting without the owner's permission may be illegal. This is regulated in Russia. Article 272 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation ("Unauthorized access to computer information").
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about connecting to Wi-Fi without a password
Is it possible to connect to Wi-Fi without a password if the network is hidden (SSID is not broadcast)?
No. Hidden networks require manual entry of the network name (SSID) and password. None of the described methods will work, as the phone simply won't "see" the network in the list of available networks.
Why doesn't iPhone have WPS?
Apple deliberately does not support WPS due to vulnerabilities in the protocol. Instead, use a QR code or device-to-device data exchange (Quick Connection).
How do I find out the Wi-Fi password if my phone is already connected?
On Android (with root rights) you can use applications like WiFi Password ViewerOn . iPhone It is impossible to view the password without jailbreaking, but it can be transferred to another device. Apple through iCloud Keychain.
Does WPS connection work on public networks (cafes, airports)?
No. Public networks typically disable WPS for security reasons. In such cases, use a QR code (if provided by the administration) or ask the staff for the password.
Is it possible to connect to Wi-Fi without a password using a PC?
Yes, if the PC is already connected to the network. Windows open Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → Manage known networks, select the network and press "Properties" — the password will be displayed in the field Network Security Key.