Smartphone owners Xiaomi Often face a situation where you need to connect a new device to your home network, but the router password is lost or forgotten. For the model Redmi 8, operating on the basis Android 9 with shell MIUI, this problem is solved by standard system tools without the need to obtain rights rootUnlike older versions of Android, this doesn't require access to system files, making the procedure safe for the average user.
Modern interfaces Mi Wi-Fi Allows you not only to manage your connection but also to view saved access keys. This is especially convenient in an office or large home where guests need to quickly access the internet. However, the interface may change depending on the firmware version, so it's important to follow the current steps.
In this article, we will examine in detail all available methods: from standard viewing via QR code to using advanced settings Wi-FiYou'll learn how to copy a password to the clipboard and where to find it in text format. We'll also cover security nuances and operating features. Android with network configurations.
Android 9 stock features on the Redmi 8
operating system Android, starting with version 9 (Pie), received the function of generating QR codes for quick connection to saved networks. Redmi 8 This mechanism is implemented through the standard settings menu. When scanning such a code with another device, the password is entered automatically, but the user can also visually scan the data if the system allows it.
It is important to understand that MIUI — this is not pure Android, but a deeply redesigned shell. Engineers Xiaomi Passwords are often hidden from view for security reasons, leaving only the graphical code. However, there are proven ways to bypass this restriction without third-party software.
To get started, make sure your Redmi 8 already connected to the network whose password you want to know. If the phone isn't connected to Wi-Fi, it won't be able to display the saved key because it doesn't have an active connection with the router. This is a basic security requirement of the protocol. WPA2/WPA3.
⚠️ Note: The menu interface may differ slightly depending on the version MIUIIf you don't find the item you're looking for, check for system updates or use the alternative QR code method.
Viewing the password through Wi-Fi settings
The first and easiest way is to use the built-in network sharing functionality. It doesn't require installing any additional apps and works even without internet access. The steps are the same for most Wi-Fi-based devices. Android 9 And MIUI 10/11.
First, you need to go to the Settings menu. Find the gear icon on your home screen or in the notification shade. Next, select the section responsible for wireless connections. Depending on your theme, it may simply be called Wi-Fi or Wireless networks.
Find the network you're currently connected to in the list of available networks. It's usually marked with a lock icon or a check mark. Click the network name or the arrow to the right of it to expand its options. This is where you'll find the information you're looking for.
☑️ Password search algorithm
In the menu that opens, you'll see a large QR code. Below it, you'll usually see a line like this: WPA:passwordIf the password is written in plain text, the problem is solved. If only a code is displayed, a second smartphone with a camera or a screenshot will be required to decrypt it.
Using a QR code to obtain data
If the text password is hidden, the QR code becomes the primary source of information. It's a graphical representation of the connection string, containing the network's SSID, encryption type, and the access key itself. It can be read using the camera's built-in scanner or a third-party app.
Take a screenshot of the screen with the QR code on your Redmi 8. Then open the application. Google Lens (Google Lens) or any similar scanner from Play MarketLoad the saved image into the scanner, and it will instantly recognize the text.
In the scan results, you'll see a connection string. It will look something like this: WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:MySecretPassword;;We are interested in the part after the symbol P: and before the double punctuation mark ;;This is your password.
Why is the password hidden behind asterisks?
For security purposes, Android hides the actual password characters in the interface so that someone who picks up your unlocked phone cannot see the passkey.
This method works stably on all versions. MIUIIt doesn't require a computer connection or any specialized knowledge. The main thing is to carefully read the recognized text to avoid confusing similar characters, such as zero and the letter O.
Advanced settings and developer mode
For more advanced users, there is the option to view saved networks through hidden menus, although Android 9 without root access to the file wpa_supplicant.conf Closed. However, you can check the connection details through the engineering menu or ADB if a computer is connected.
Using USB debugging (ADB) allows you to query the system for a list of saved networks. To do this, the phone must be connected to a PC with the drivers installed. Xiaomi And ADBA request to obtain the configuration is entered in the command line.
The command looks like this:
adb shell dumpsys wifi | grep "mConfiguredNetworks"This method is difficult for the average user and requires preparation of the development environment. Redmi 8 With stock firmware, it may not return the password in clear text due to Google's security restrictions, but it will show the SSID and connection status.
It's worth noting that attempts to gain root access to view system files may void your warranty and disrupt banking apps. Therefore, using the standard QR code method is the safest and most reasonable solution.
Table: Comparison of password retrieval methods
To help you choose the right option, we've compared the main methods based on their complexity and requirements. Some methods require a second device, while others only require a single smartphone.
| Method | Need a second phone | Complexity | Security |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR code (screenshot) | No | Low | High |
| Google Lens | No | Low | High |
| ADB debugging | Yes (PC) | High | Average |
| Root access | No | Very high | Low |
As the table shows, using the built-in QR code generator in conjunction with a scanner app offers the optimal balance between simplicity and effectiveness. It requires no technical skills.
Method with ADB Suitable only for enthusiasts who know what they're doing. For the average user Redmi 8 It is better to limit yourself to the first two options so as not to disrupt the system.
Display problems and their solutions
Sometimes users encounter problems with QR codes not being generated or displayed incorrectly. This may be due to a service error. Wi-Fi or an overflowing system cache. In such cases, a simple restart of the communication module helps.
Try turning airplane mode on and off (Aviation Mode). This will reboot all of the phone's radio modules. After enabling Wi-Fi, try accessing the network settings again. This often resolves the frozen interface issue.
If the issue persists, check if you have a third-party theme installed on your phone. Some custom themes MIUI They may hide interface elements or resize them, making the QR code unreadable. Please return to the default theme to test.
It's also worth making sure your phone has the latest security update. Xiaomi regularly releases patches that fix bugs in network interfaces. Check for updates in the section About the phone.
Security measures when working with passwords
Once you've gained access to your password, don't leave it open in screenshots or messaging apps. Anyone who gains access to your gallery will be able to connect to your network. It's best to delete images with QR codes immediately after use.
Your Wi-Fi password is the key to your local network. Knowing it, an attacker can not only use your traffic but also attempt to access smart devices in your home, such as cameras or power outlets. Therefore, keeping your password secret is critical.
It is recommended to change your Wi-Fi router password periodically, especially if you suspect it may have been compromised. Redmi 8 After changing the password, you will need to forget the network and reconnect, entering the new key.
⚠️ Warning: Never share your Wi-Fi password with strangers or connect to open networks with names similar to yours without verification. This could be an "Evil Twin" attack.
Use complex character combinations that include mixed-case letters and numbers. This will protect your network from brute-force attacks. Simple passwords like 12345678 are hacked in seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to view the password without an internet connection?
No, on Android 9 Without root access, you can only view the password for the network to which the phone is currently connected or has been connected previously and the data is saved in the system. For new, unknown networks, the password cannot be found.
Are Wi-Fi hacking apps safe to use?
No, most of these apps are in Play Market are fraudulent or contain viruses. They cannot crack modern encryption protocols. WPA2It's better to use legal methods to restore access through your router settings.
What to do if the QR code cannot be read?
Try increasing the screen brightness, cleaning the camera, changing the angle or distance. If this doesn't help, use a different scanner app, such as Kaspersky or Google.
Will the password be reset after updating MIUI?
Wi-Fi settings are usually retained after a system update. However, in rare cases, when upgrading to a major version of Android (for example, from 9 to 10), network settings may reset. It is recommended to back up important data.