The situation of needing to connect a new device to the network but forgetting the password is familiar to many smartphone owners. Device owners Xiaomi, Redmi And POCO People often wonder how to quickly find out what access data they've saved. Fortunately, modern shells offer this feature. MIUI And HyperOS This feature is built-in by default and does not require root privileges.
Unlike older versions of Android, which required tampering with system files, access to the settings menu is now sufficient. This significantly simplifies the process and makes it safe for the average user. You can restore network access in seconds using standard system tools.
In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all the current methods for retrieving lost data. We'll cover the fastest method using a QR code, as well as options for different firmware versions. You'll also learn what to do if standard methods fail.
Using a QR code to view data
The easiest and most effective way to view your Wi-Fi password on a Xiaomi is to use the built-in QR code generator. This feature was added to the shell. MIUI 11 and has become the standard for all subsequent versions. You don't need to install third-party apps or search for complex settings.
To get started, go to your device's settings menu. Find the section Wi-Fi and click on it. A list of available networks will appear, and the current connection will be marked with an icon or highlighted in color. Click on the name of the network you're currently connected to or on the arrow next to it.
A card with connection information will appear on the screen. A QR code will be located at the bottom of the screen or under the network name. This code contains all the necessary connection information. Some firmware versions may have the password text printed directly below the code, but most require scanning.
⚠️ Important: If the QR code doesn't contain a text string containing the access key, you'll need a second smartphone with a camera or code scanner. Don't take a screenshot or share it with strangers, as the code contains public data about your network.
To "read" the code, open the camera on any other device or use the built-in scanner in the Security app on the device itself. XiaomiPoint the lens at the screen. The system will recognize the code and display a notification or pop-up window with a text string. This is the security key you're looking for.
It is worth noting that in the latest updates HyperOS The interface may differ slightly. However, the operating logic remains the same: enter Wi-Fi settings, select the active network, and generate a code. This method works reliably on most models, including budget series. Redmi and flagship Xiaomi.
Wi-Fi settings in different versions of MIUI and HyperOS
The operating system interface is constantly changing, and the layout of controls may differ. For owners of devices with version MIUI 12 or 13 Often, simply tapping the network icon in the notification shade will open a menu where you can select "Share" or view a QR code.
In earlier versions such as MIUI 10 or 11, the path may be a bit longer. Sometimes you need to go to advanced settings. If you don't see the (Share) button right away, try clicking the gear icon next to the network name. In the window that opens, look for the code generation option.
Users HyperOS Users may notice improved visualization. The network card has become more informative. It often displays the connection frequency, IP address, and MAC address. The key element remains the QR code button, usually located at the bottom of the screen or in the three-dot menu.
It is important to understand that global firmware versions may differ from Chinese ones. In Chinese versions (CN ROM) Some menu items may have different names or icons. However, the data viewing functionality remains available in all official builds.
View saved networks without root access
Many users mistakenly believe that they need permissions to view saved passwords. rootThis misconception arose due to limitations in older versions of Android prior to version 10. Starting with Android 10 and above, the system allows data sharing via a secure QR code channel without extensive system intervention.
If your smartphone is running Android 9 or earlier, you may not be able to view the saved key in text format using standard tools. In this case, the system requires administrator rights to access the system file. wpa_supplicant.confHowever, such devices are rare today.
For modern devices Xiaomi With MIUI 12+ Obtaining superuser rights is not only unnecessary but can also be dangerous. Root access allows access to system files, which can lead to disruption of banking apps and a decrease in the overall security of the device.
What is the wpa_supplicant.conf file?
This is a system file in Android that stores data about all previously connected Wi-Fi networks. Access to it is protected by superuser privileges. In modern versions of Android, access to this file is blocked for third-party apps, even with root privileges, without special permissions.
So, if you have a modern smartphone, you can safely ignore the advice on gaining root access for this purpose. The standard shell functionality MIUI is completely sufficient to solve the problem of access restoration.
Using third-party applications and their effectiveness
In the store Google Play You can find hundreds of apps that promise to reveal saved passwords. Popular programs like WiFi Password Viewer or WiFi Map They often rank high in search results. However, their performance on new devices is extremely low.
These apps operate by attempting to read system files, which is blocked by modern versions of Android. Instead of the actual key, you may see asterisks or a message about insufficient rights. Furthermore, installing questionable apps can lead to the leaking of your personal data.
The only time third-party software might be useful is on very old, unprotected devices or those with root access. However, given the security risks, using built-in tools Xiaomi seems like a much more sensible solution. Built-in tools require no installation, are ad-free, and are guaranteed to work.
| Method | Root is required | Security | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR code (MIUI) | No | High | Android 10+ |
| Third-party APKs | Often yes | Low | Android 9 and below |
| wpa_supplicant file | Yes | Average | Any version |
| Router (web interface) | No | High | Any version |
Analyzing the table, we can conclude that native methods are always preferable. They are integrated into the system and optimized by the manufacturer. Third-party solutions are often simply a way for developers to monetize traffic through advertising.
Accessing router settings via smartphone
If you can't find your Xiaomi Wi-Fi password through your phone's settings, there's always a reliable method: logging into your router's admin panel. This method is universal and works on any device with a browser. You'll need access to your router's web interface.
First, make sure your smartphone is connected to the Wi-Fi network of the router whose password you want to find out. Open any browser (Chrome, Yandex, Mi Browser) and 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 is indicated on the sticker on the bottom of the device.
After entering the address, the system will ask for your login and password to access the settings. If you haven't changed them, try the default combinations, for example, admin/adminThis information can also be found on a sticker on the back of the router. After successfully logging in, find the section Wireless or Wireless mode.
⚠️ Important: Your router login details (administrator login/password) and your Wi-Fi password are different. Don't confuse them. If you've changed your administrator password and forgotten it, you'll have to reset your router to factory settings.
In the wireless network section, find the field Wireless Password, PSK Password or "Password." The current access key will be displayed there in text format. You can copy it or simply rewrite it. This method works regardless of your smartphone model. Xiaomi.
☑️ Check before logging into the router
What to do if the password is not displayed
Sometimes users encounter an issue where the QR code isn't generated and the text is hidden. This can be caused by system errors or specific security settings on corporate networks. If you're trying to access a corporate network, the viewing function may be blocked by the administrator.
If you're using a home network, try restarting your smartphone. This often resolves minor software interface glitches. MIUIAlso, make sure you're in the active network menu, not in the list of available connections. You need to click the name of the network you're connecting to.
If nothing helps, you can use the command line via ADB (Android Debug Bridge), but this requires a connection to a computer and drivers. This method is more complex, but it allows access to system logs, where you can sometimes find the information you need, although this is also limited in modern versions of Android.
The most radical, yet effective, method is to reset your smartphone's network settings. This won't delete your photos or contacts, but it will erase all saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth pairings. You'll have to re-enter your passwords, but you can write them down or save them in a safe place.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if the phone is not connected to it?
No, it's impossible to view the password for a network the device has never connected to or whose data has been deleted using standard Android and MIUI tools. Passwords are only stored for active or previously saved connections.
Are password viewer apps safe to use?
Most of these apps require suspicious permissions and can be dangerous. On modern Android devices, they're often useless without root access. It's better to use the built-in QR code or router settings.
Where can I find my router's IP address if the sticker has worn off?
Try the standard addresses: 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1, 192.168.31.1 (for Xiaomi routers). You can also find the gateway address in your phone's Wi-Fi settings under Connection Details.
Why is there no QR code button on my Xiaomi?
This may be due to a very old version of MIUI (below 11) or regional restrictions. In this case, try updating the system or use the login method through the router's web interface.
Is it possible to transfer a password to an iPhone via a Xiaomi QR code?
Yes, the iPhone camera can read standard Wi-Fi QR codes. Point your iPhone camera at the code generated by Xiaomi, and the phone will prompt you to connect to the network without manually entering the key.