It's quite common for smartphone owners to need to connect a new gadget to their home network but have forgotten the password. Samsung Galaxy A51 People often ask if it's possible to restore network access if the device is already connected. Fortunately, modern versions of the operating system Android allow you to easily solve this problem without using complex hacking utilities.
Starting with the tenth version of the mobile OS, engineers implemented a convenient QR code sharing mechanism. This solution has become the standard for security and user convenience. You don't need superuser rights or install questionable apps from untrusted sources.
In this article, we'll detail standard methods for recovering lost data and discuss alternatives for older software versions. You'll learn how to securely grant access to guests and where network data is stored in the system.
The standard method is via QR code on Android 10 and later.
The easiest and most reliable way to find out security key — use the built-in QR code generation function. This method works on all current firmware versions. One UI, installed on Samsung A51The system automatically encrypts the password into a graphic code that can be read by the camera of any other device.
To get started, you need to go to your smartphone's settings menu. Find the section Connections and select the item Wi-FiA list of available networks will be displayed here, with the currently active connection at the top, usually marked with a gear icon or an arrow.
⚠️ Attention: To display the QR code, the device must be unlocked. Android's security system requires identity verification via a PIN, pattern, or fingerprint before revealing hidden data.
Click the gear icon next to your network name. In the window that opens, you'll see a button QR code, located at the bottom of the screen. Clicking it will display an image containing all the necessary connection information.
If the password itself is displayed on the smartphone screen as text under the QR code, then the problem is solved. However, on some firmware versions Samsung The text is hidden. In this case, simply take a screenshot or photograph the code on another phone, and then use the built-in QR scanner in the camera or app. Google Lensto see the text line.
⚠️ Attention: The menu interface may vary slightly depending on the Android version (10, 11, 12, 13, or 14) and regional firmware. The layout of elements may vary.
Using the Share feature to view data
An alternative, but no less effective, method is to use the quick exchange feature. In the ecosystem Samsung And Google This process is extremely simplified for interoperability between devices. This is especially convenient if you need to transfer a password to another phone, but you can also use this method for visual confirmation of data.
While in the Wi-Fi control menu, tap the name of the network you're connected to. In the pop-up window that appears or in the bottom menu, select the option ShareThe system will prompt you to select an application or device for transfer.
Often, the QR code mentioned above is displayed next to the data transfer button. If you choose to send via messenger (for example, Telegram or WhatsApp) to yourself or in notes, then a link or a line containing SSID and the password in clear text.
This method is great because it doesn't require any additional scanning. You simply copy the generated string and save it in a safe place. However, keep in mind that when sending to some messengers, the password may be hidden by asterisks in the message preview.
View saved networks via Google account
Modern smartphones, including Samsung A51, have the function of synchronizing Wi-Fi passwords with the account GoogleThis means that if you've previously enabled this option, all your saved networks are stored in the cloud and are available to view from any device where you're signed in to your account.
To use this method, open your phone's settings and go to the section Google. Select an item Autofill, and then Google AutocompleteFind the option in the menu Wi-Fi passwords or follow the direct link to the password menu through Google security settings.
The system will ask you to confirm your identity. After successful authentication, you will see a list of all networks your smartphone has ever connected to. By clicking on a specific network, you can see its name and password, and also copy it to the clipboard.
This method is the most versatile, as it allows you to restore access even if the current connection is lost or the phone has been reset to factory settings (provided syncing was enabled beforehand). It's a powerful digital security management tool.
Checking via the router menu (for advanced users)
If software methods on the smartphone itself are unavailable for some reason or the interface has been modified by the manufacturer, there's always the hardware method. You can find the password in the settings of the router to which your device is connected. SamsungTo do this, the phone must be connected to a Wi-Fi network.
You'll need to find out the gateway's IP address. Open your Wi-Fi settings, click the gear icon for your active network, and find the field Gateway or Router. Usually this is an address of the form 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. Copy this address.
Open any browser on your smartphone (Chrome, Samsung Internet) and enter the copied IP address into the address bar. You'll be greeted by the router's login page. The login and password are often found on a sticker on the bottom of the router (the default admin/admin or unique ones).
After logging into the router's web interface (for example, TP-Link, ASUS, Keenetic) you need to find the section responsible for the wireless network. It may be called Wireless, Wi-Fi, Wireless mode. In subsections Wireless Security or Wireless security there will be a field PSK Password or Password, where the key is specified in clear text.
| Router brand | Standard IP | Menu section | Security type |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Wireless -> Wireless Security | WPA/WPA2 - Personal |
| ASUS | 192.168.1.1 | Wireless Network -> General | WPA2-PSK |
| Keenetic | 192.168.1.1 | My Networks and Wi-Fi -> Home Network | WPA2-PSK |
| D-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Wi-Fi -> Security Settings | WPA2-PSK |
Using third-party applications and their limitations
In the store Google Play You can find many apps that promise to reveal saved passwords. However, it's important to understand the limitations of your security policy. AndroidApplications that do not have root access are technically unable to read the system file. wpa_supplicant.conf, where the keys are stored in clear text.
Most of these programs (for example, WiFi Password Viewer) work only on devices with superuser rights. On a normal Samsung A51 Without unlocking the bootloader and firmware, they will only show a list of networks, but instead of passwords, you will see dashes or asterisks.
There are apps that generate QR codes (similar to system apps), but they use their own databases of shared passwords or require the installation of a special certificate. Using such programs carries potential risks of data leakage.
⚠️ Attention: Installing apps from unknown sources or programs that require suspicious permissions can lead to personal data theft. Use only trusted tools from the official store.
If you do decide to use third-party software, carefully read reviews and the permissions it requests. Often, these programs simply duplicate the system QR code function, but with added ads. Is the risk of installing unnecessary software worth the hassle of clicking a few buttons in the settings?
☑️ Check before resetting network settings
What to do if nothing helps
In rare cases where none of the software methods work and access to the router is blocked, a radical solution remains: resetting the router. This will restore the device to its factory settings, including the Wi-Fi password, which will be located on a sticker on the device.
To do this, you need to find a small hole with the inscription on the switched-on router Reset or RestoreUsing a paperclip or needle, press the button inside the hole and hold it for about 10-15 seconds until the indicators blink simultaneously. After rebooting, the network will be named as indicated on the sticker, and the password will be the default.
It's important to understand that this step will require reconfiguring your internet connection (PPPoE, L2TP, or static IP) if your ISP doesn't use automatic detection (Dynamic IP). If you're unsure, it's best to contact your ISP's technical support.
You can also try finding your contract with your provider, which often includes access details for your personal account. You can often change your Wi-Fi password to a new one you're sure you know through your personal account on the provider's website.
Why might the password not be displayed?
On some custom ROMs or enterprise versions of Android, password viewing functionality may be blocked by the device administrator or the organization's security policy. This may also occur if the phone has been jailbroken or has traffic monitoring certificates installed.
Wireless Network Security Tips
Once you've recovered or learned your password, it's time to consider the security of your network. Using default passwords found on factory stickers makes your network vulnerable to hacking. Attackers can use special tables to brute-force keys.
It's recommended to change your Wi-Fi password regularly, especially if you have many guests connecting to your network or you suspect your neighbors are using your internet. A strong password should contain mixed-case letters, numbers, and special characters.
It is also worth disabling the function WPS in your router settings. This feature is designed to simplify connection, but it contains vulnerabilities that allow attackers to quickly gain access to your network without even knowing the master password.
Don't forget to update your router firmware. Manufacturers regularly release security patches to fix security holes. Outdated software is an open door for viruses and unauthorized access.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to view the Wi-Fi password on a Samsung A51 without root access?
Yes, it's possible. Starting with Android 10, the system has a built-in feature for viewing passwords via a QR code in the Wi-Fi settings. Root access is not required.
Where is the password file saved on Android?
Passwords are stored in a system file /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.confAccess to this file without superuser (root) rights is closed to regular applications and users for security reasons.
Why is there no QR code button on my Samsung A51?
The button may be missing if you're using a very old version of Android (below 10) or if the UI manufacturer (Samsung One UI) has changed the layout. Try tapping the gear next to the network or using the "Share" feature.
Are password recovery apps safe to use?
Most of these apps either don't work without root access or contain ads and collect data. It's safer to use native Android tools or your router's settings.
What should I do if I forgot my router admin password?
If you changed your admin password and forgot it, the only solution is to reset the router to factory settings using the Reset button. After that, you can log in using the username and password on the sticker on the router.