How to Read a Wi-Fi Password on Android: From Settings to ADB

It's common to need to connect a new device to a wireless network but forget the password. Luckily, if you've connected to this access point from your Android smartphone, the system saved this data in memory. Modern versions of Google's operating system provide a high level of encryption, but still provide legitimate tools for viewing stored keys.

In this article, we'll cover all current methods for accessing lost data, from the standard interface to advanced methods for experienced users. You'll learn how to bypass security restrictions without voiding your warranty or risking damage to your device's system files.

It is worth considering that the menu interface may differ slightly depending on manufacturer's shells (MIUI, OneUI, ColorOS) and operating system versions. However, the basic security logic remains the same for all certified devices running Android 10 and later.

Built-in features of Android 10 and later

Starting with OS X, Google has implemented a native QR code generation feature for quickly connecting guests. This same mechanism allows the device owner to view a text version of the password. To do this, go to the section Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi and select an active or previously saved network.

After selecting the desired network name (SSID), a "Share" button or gear icon will appear on the screen, often with a QR code icon next to it. When you click it, the system will ask you to verify your identity via biometric scanner (fingerprint or Face ID) or entering a screen unlock PIN. This is a critical security feature that prevents unauthorized access to your data if your phone falls into their hands.

⚠️ Note: On some smartphone models (such as older Xiaomi or Huawei models), the password may not be displayed as text under the QR code, but rather hidden by asterisks. In this case, take a screenshot and open it in the Google Lens app or any other QR code reader—the text will be recognized automatically.

This method is the most secure and does not require any additional software. It works reliably on most modern devices, including Samsung Galaxy, Google Pixel and budget models from Realme.

Using the Developer Options and ADB

For users who need to access system configuration files without superuser (Root) rights, using a debug bridge is an excellent solution. Android Debug Bridge (ADB)This method requires connecting your smartphone to a computer and minimal technical skills, but it allows you to extract data directly from system partitions.

The first step is to enable developer mode. To do this, go to Settings → About phone and quickly tap "Build number" seven times. A new "Developer options" section will appear in the Settings menu, where you need to enable the "USB debugging" toggle.

After connecting to the PC and executing the command adb devices To check the connection, you can use the command to display the contents of the Wi-Fi configuration file. In older versions of Android (before 10), this was done using the command adb pull /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf, however, in modern versions, access to this file is closed even for ADB without root rights.

However, on some devices with weakened security policies or specific firmware, the shell command still works:

adb shell dumpsys wifi | grep -i "mConfigKey"

This command will list the configurations where the field can be found mConfigKey, containing the password you're looking for. If the system returns an empty result or an access error, your device has strict security policies in place, and this method won't work without full administrator rights.

What to do if ADB doesn't detect the phone?

Make sure you are using the original cable (not just for charging), the correct USB driver is installed in the Windows Device Manager, and a window appears on the phone screen asking for debugging permission, where you need to click "Always allow".

Viewing via file manager (Root rights)

Owners of devices with an unlocked bootloader and installed rights SuperUser (Root) have full access to the file system. This allows them to directly read system files, where all network settings are stored in plain text (or in an easily decryptable format).

The main file of interest is usually located at /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf (for Android up to version 9) or in similar directories for newer versions, such as /data/misc/apexdata/com.android.wifi/WifiConfigStore.xmlTo work, you will need a file manager with root access support, for example, Root Explorer, Solid Explorer or MT Manager.

The algorithm of actions is as follows:

• 📂 Open the file manager and grant it superuser rights when prompted.
• 📂 Go to the root directory /data/ (available only with Root).
• 📂 Locate your Wi-Fi configuration file (usually .conf or .xml).
• 📂 Open the file with the built-in text editor and find the line psk="your_password".

This method is the most powerful, as it allows you not only to see the password but also to copy it and even edit the network configuration. However, using root privileges carries risks: careless deletion of system files can lead to butlupu (cyclic reboot) of the device.

Below is a table showing the location of configuration files depending on the Android version:

⚠️ Note: On Android 12 and above, passwords in configuration files may be replaced with hashes or stored in the secure Keystore, from where they are extremely difficult to extract in readable form even with root access. In such cases, the QR code method remains the only viable option.

Third-party recovery apps

There are many apps on the Google Play Market that promise to reveal saved passwords. However, it's important to understand how they work. Non-rooted apps, such as WiFi Password Viewer (conditional name), most often they simply duplicate the function of the system QR code, reading it with a camera or emulating the connection process.

Applications that require root access work according to the principle described in the previous section: they read the system file wpa_supplicant.conf and parse its contents, displaying the result in a user-friendly interface. Popular representatives of this class include WiFi Password Recovery And WiFi Map (in local viewing mode).

Using third-party software carries certain security risks:

• 🔒 The app may request excessive permissions to access contacts and geolocation.
• 🔒 There is a risk that your saved networks may be leaked to the developer's servers.
• 🔒 Many "free" versions are filled with intrusive ads that make them difficult to use.

It is recommended to use only time-tested apps with high ratings and numerous reviews, or resort to the QR code method, which is native and secure.

Resetting your router as a last resort

If none of the software methods work (for example, the phone isn't connected to the network, you don't have root access, and the QR code doesn't show the password), physical access to the router remains. Most routers (TP-Link, ASUS, D-Link, Keenetic) have a label on the case with the factory network name (SSID) and default password.

If the default password was previously changed and you don't remember it, the only solution is to reset the device to factory settings. To do this, you need to find the button Reset (often recessed into the case) and hold it for 10-15 seconds while the router is powered on.

After rebooting, you can connect using the information on the sticker and set a new, memorable password. This method is universal, but it requires time to reconfigure the network.

Password security and storage

Once you've regained access, it's highly recommended to save it in a safe place. Modern smartphones offer built-in password managers (Google Password Manager, Samsung Pass) that sync data across devices via the cloud.

Using these storage services allows you to view your Wi-Fi password at any time, not only on your phone but also on your tablet or computer, by logging into your Google account. This eliminates the need for complex technical tricks in the future.

You should also consider changing your password if you suspect it may have been compromised. Use complex character combinations, avoiding simple sequences like "12345678" or your date of birth.

Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password on an Android without root access?

Yes, this is possible on Android 10 and newer using the "Share" feature (QR code). On older versions, you can't view the saved password using native tools without root access, as the configuration file is protected by system permissions.

Are password recovery apps safe to use?

Apps that require root access are safe if they're open-source or reputable. However, apps without root access that promise "jailbreaking" are often scams and may contain malicious code. Be careful.

Where is the Wi-Fi password file stored on Android?

The main file is located at /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf (on older versions) or /data/misc/apexdata/com.android.wifi/WifiConfigStore.xml (on newer versions). Access to this directory is only possible with superuser privileges.

What should I do if the QR code shows asterisks instead of a password?

Take a screenshot of the screen containing the QR code. Then open this screenshot using the Google Lens app or any other QR code scanner. The app will recognize the text hidden within the code image and display it as text.