It's a common occurrence when friends are coming over or you need to connect a new gadget, but you can't remember the wireless network password. Smartphone owners often forget complex character combinations they once successfully entered, relying on the automatic connection feature. Fortunately, the operating system Android stores this data in the device's memory, and it can be retrieved using several methods.
The method for restoring access directly depends on the version of the operating system installed. On modern devices running Android 10 This process is extremely simplified and doesn't require root privileges on Windows 10 and newer versions. Older OS versions may require more in-depth intervention in system files or the use of third-party software.
In this article, we'll cover all the current methods: from standard system tools to using the command line and root access. You'll learn how to quickly generate a QR code For instantly connecting guests without revealing the secret combination. We'll also cover the nuances of working with configuration files on older firmware versions.
Using the QR code feature on Android 10 and later
Starting with version 10, Google has implemented a native mechanism for exchanging network parameters via QR codes. This is the safest and fastest method, requiring no additional software. You don't even need to know the password itself to transfer it to another device; access to the already connected smartphone is sufficient.
To implement this method, go to Settings → Wi-Fi and click the gear icon next to the active network. A QR code will appear on the screen. Scanning it will instantly grant any device internet access. The text version of the password is often (but not always) written below the code image.
- 📱 Open the wireless network settings on the device where the password is saved.
- 🔗 Click on the active network name or the gear icon to go to details.
- 👁️ Select the "Share" or "QR code" option.
- 🔐 Complete biometric authentication or enter your screen unlock PIN.
If the text under the QR code doesn't appear, take a screenshot. Then open the image in the app. Google Lens (Google Lens) or any similar scanner in the gallery. The system will recognize the encrypted data and display the password in plain text.
⚠️ Note: On some skins (such as older versions of MIUI or OneUI), the option to display the password text under the QR code may be hidden by the manufacturer. In this case, use the Google Lens method.
Viewing via the settings menu on Android 12-14
In more recent versions of the operating system, the process has become even more transparent. Google engineers have added the ability to view the password in cleartext directly in the network settings menu. This eliminates the need to take screenshots or use third-party text recognition apps.
To see the combination you are looking for, go to Settings → Connections → Wi-FiTap the current network, then select "Show password" or the eye icon in the input field. The system will ask you to verify your identity using your fingerprint, Face ID, or pattern.
This method works reliably on stock Android and most stock ROMs. However, manufacturers may modify the interface. For example, on Samsung the path may look like this Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi → (gear) → View QR code, where the password will be written in small print at the bottom.
- 🔍 Make sure your smartphone is connected to the desired network or it is saved in the list.
- ⚙️ Go to the detailed menu of a specific access point.
- 👁️ Click the "eye" icon or the "Show password" text link.
- ✅ Confirm the action with biometrics or a lock code.
☑️ Check access to settings
It is important to understand that this feature is relatively new. If you have Android 9 or lower, this item is simply not present in the menu, and you will have to look for workarounds described below.
Using Google Lens on older versions of Android
For devices that don't have direct text decoding but do have QR code generation (starting with Android 10), the built-in image analyzer is the ideal solution. It allows you to extract text information from the graphic code the system generates for connection.
Take a screenshot of the network's QR code. Then open the app. Google Photos, find the screenshot, and click the "Search by Photo" (or "Lens") button. Artificial intelligence will analyze the image and highlight the text blocks. The password will be marked as "Wi-Fi Password" or simply displayed in the list of recognized text.
This method is great because it doesn't require installing suspicious apps from untrusted sources. You use the built-in tools of the Google ecosystem, which guarantees the security of your data.
Sequence of actions:1. Settings -> Wi-Fi -> Tap on the network.
2. Share button -> Fingerprint scanner.
3. Take a screenshot (Volume down + Power).
4. Open Google Photos -> Select screenshot -> Lens.
It's worth noting that recognition quality depends on the clarity of the screenshot. Make sure the image shows the entire QR code, without any cropped edges.
View saved passwords via Google Account
Modern smartphones sync saved passwords with the Google cloud. This means you can retrieve a forgotten password not only from your phone but also from any other device with access to your account, including a computer or tablet.
Go to Google Settings on any device or go to the page passwords.google.comIn the "Passwords" section, search for your network name (SSID). After logging in, you'll see the saved password in plain text. This works for all networks you've ever connected to and enabled syncing.
| Parameter | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Data source | Google Password Manager | Active Google account |
| Availability | Any device (PC, iOS, Android) | Internet connection |
| Security | High (2FA required) | Two-factor authentication |
| Synchronization | Automatic | Enabled option in settings |
What should I do if my password hasn't synced?
If you don't see your password in the cloud, check whether password syncing was enabled when you connected to the network. On older devices or when using power-saving modes, syncing may have been disabled by the system. In this case, only viewing it locally on the device where the password is saved will help.
The advantage of this method is its versatility. Even if your phone's battery is dead or lost, you can restore access to your home network by logging into your account from a friend's laptop.
Using ADB on Non-Rooted Devices
For advanced users who don't have root access but need access to system configuration files, there is a method using USB debugging (ADB). This method allows you to read the file in which Android stores all saved Wi-Fi networks.
You'll need a computer, a USB cable, and installed ADB drivers. Developer options must be enabled on your phone, and USB debugging must be enabled. Once connected to the PC, run the command to backup your Wi-Fi settings.
adb backup -f wifi.ab -noapk com.android.providers.settingsadb pull wifi.ab
python2 extract_android_data.py wifi.ab wifi.tar
tar -xf wifi.tar
After unpacking the archive, you will have access to the file. settings_secure.xml or WifiConfigStore.xml (depending on your Android version). If you open it with a text editor, you'll find the tag PreSharedKey, inside which the required password is stored.
- 💻 Install ADB Tools on your computer.
- 📱 Enable USB debugging in the developer menu.
- 🔌 Connect your phone and confirm debugging permission.
- 📂 Run the backup command and extract the XML file.
⚠️ Warning: This method requires technical skills. Errors when using ADB may prevent your computer from detecting the device. Make sure you're using the original or high-quality data cable.
Obtaining a password with Root rights (Superuser)
If your smartphone is rooted, the task is simplified to a minimum. Root privileges provide full access to the file system, including hidden directories where system configuration files are stored. You can use root-enabled file managers, such as Root Explorer or RE Manager.
It is necessary to follow the path /data/misc/wifi/There you will find the file. WifiConfigStore.conf (for Android 10+) or WifiConfigStore.xml (for older versions) Open it with any text editor.
Look for blocks inside the file networkEach block will have a parameter ssid (network name) and psk or PreSharedKey (password). This method works on all versions of Android, as long as you have root access.
Please remember that modifying system files without proper training may result in unstable Wi-Fi operation. Be careful when editing and always make backups before making changes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if the phone is not connected to it?
Yes, if you've previously connected to this network and saved the profile, and if syncing with your Google Account is enabled. In this case, you can view the password in the Google security settings on any device. If the profile has been deleted or syncing has been disabled, it's impossible to find the password without access to the router or another connected device.
Are Wi-Fi hacking apps safe to use?
No, most of these apps in official stores (like the Play Market) are fake or contain malicious code. Real security audit tools (like Kali Nethunter) require extensive knowledge and root access. Using questionable software can lead to the theft of your personal data, banking passwords, and access rights.
What should I do if the "Show password" button is inactive?
This could be due to several reasons: an outdated Android version (below 10), limitations from the Android developer, or a lack of administrator rights. In these cases, try the Google Lens method (QR code screenshot) or check the Google Passwords cloud.
Where is the password file stored on Android?
The system configuration file is usually located at the path /data/misc/wifi/Root access is required to access this directory. On newer versions of Android, data can be encrypted and stored in a secure keystore accessible only to system processes.