It's quite common to need to connect a new gadget to your home network but lose your login credentials. Router owners often forget passwords they've changed or don't remember the exact name of the access point if it was hidden. Modern operating systems can remember this information, but they're not always willing to reveal it to the user without further intervention.
There are several proven ways to restore access to credentials your wireless network. You can find them in the settings of an already connected computer, use your mobile phone, or log into the router's administrative panel. Each method has its own characteristics and is suitable for different use cases.
In this article, we'll detail the steps for various devices and operating systems. You'll learn how to securely retrieve saved encryption keys and understand the differences. SSID from the actual security password. This knowledge will help you quickly set up guest access or reconnect smart home appliances.
Finding information on the router sticker and in the documentation
The easiest and fastest way to find out the factory settings is to inspect the device's case. Most manufacturers place an information sticker on the bottom or back of the router. This sticker usually contains the default network name (Default SSID) and the factory security key (Wireless Password).
If you haven't changed your router settings since purchasing it, these settings will be valid. However, if the password was previously changed, the factory defaults will no longer work. In this case, the sticker may contain a web interface login address where you can view or reset the current settings.
Pay attention to the format of the data. The network name often looks like a combination of the brand and a random set of characters, for example, TP-LINK_4A2BThe password can be presented as a QR code for quick scanning with a smartphone camera, significantly simplifying the guest login process.
⚠️ Important: If the WPS indicator on your router is lit, it means the quick connect feature is active. However, relying solely on the factory settings is dangerous, as they are publicly available and can be used by attackers if you didn't change them during initial setup.
The table below shows examples of what factory data may look like for popular manufacturers:
| Router brand | Network Name (SSID) Format | Password location | Additional data |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | TP-LINK_XXXX | Wireless Password / PIN | IP: 192.168.0.1 |
| ASUS | ASUS_XX | WPA Password | IP: router.asus.com |
| Keenetic | Keenetic-XXXX | Wi-Fi password | IP: my.keenetic.net |
| Tenda | Tenda_XXXXXX | Wireless Password | IP: tendawifi.com |
How to find the Wi-Fi password on a Windows computer
The Windows operating system stores profiles of every network your computer has ever connected to. Even if your device isn't currently connected to the internet, information about previous connections, including security keys, is stored in the registry. To view this information, you need administrator rights.
The most accessible method is to use the Network and Sharing Center graphical interface. However, in new versions of Windows 10 and 11, the password path has become slightly longer. You'll need to go to the adapter's advanced settings, find the wireless network properties, and then the security tab. There, by checking the "Show characters" box, you'll see the code you're looking for.
A more professional and faster method is to use the command line. This method is convenient because it allows you to immediately display the password in plain text, without having to click through multiple menus. This is especially useful if you need to quickly copy a complex password.
To run the command, open the terminal (CMD) as administrator and enter the following command:
netsh wlan show profile name="Your_Network_Name" key=clearFind the line in the command output Key Content (Key content). The value next to it will be your password. If the system returns the error "Group parameter not found," it means the computer never connected to this network automatically.
☑️ Checking access in Windows
Viewing saved networks on macOS
Apple computer users can also easily retrieve their saved passwords thanks to the iCloud Keychain ecosystem. If you sync passwords between devices, Wi-Fi keys saved on your iPhone will be available on your Mac, and vice versa. This creates a unified, secure environment for storing data.
In older versions of macOS (before Ventura), information could be found through the Keychain Access app. Simply find your network name in the list, double-click it, and check the "Show password" box, confirming the action with Touch ID biometrics or your account password.
In newer versions of macOS (Ventura and later), Apple has moved Wi-Fi password management directly to System Preferences. The path now looks like this: System Preferences → Wi-Fi → Known NetworksOnce you select the desired network, you will see a copy icon or a field to view the password.
It's important to note that viewing your Mac password requires authorization. This is to protect against unauthorized access if someone else uses your computer. Without entering your password or scanning your fingerprint, your data will remain hidden.
What to do if Mac won't show password?
If the system requires a password and you don't remember it, try signing in with your Apple ID. Also, make sure iCloud Keychain syncing is enabled on your device.
Instructions for Android smartphones
Starting with Android 10, the operating system allows you to view passwords for saved Wi-Fi networks directly in the settings. Previously, this required root access, which was unsafe and difficult for the average user. Now, the process is intuitive.
To find out your password, go to Settings → Connections → Wi-FiTap the gear icon next to the name of the network you're connected to, or select "Saved Networks" to view your history. There should be a "Share" button or a QR code icon.
When you tap the (Share) button, the system will display a QR code for connecting other devices. Below this code, there's usually a text password in small print. If there's no text, you can simply scan this QR code with the camera of another phone (or the same phone, if the interface has a scanner), and the password will appear in a notification.
- 📱 Open Wi-Fi settings on Android.
- 🔘 Click on the desired network or the "Share" button.
- 👁️ Look under the QR code or scan it.
- 📋 Copy the password to the clipboard.
Some manufacturers, such as Samsung or Xiaomi, may hide their password for security purposes, requiring additional biometric verification (Face ID or fingerprint) before displaying it. This is a standard practice for enhancing personal data protection.
How to view your iPhone (iOS) password
For a long time, iOS hid Wi-Fi passwords from users, but starting with iOS 16, Apple added the long-awaited feature to view saved keys. Now iPhone and iPad owners can easily manage their wireless network credentials without jailbreaking or third-party tools.
To access the password, open Settings → Wi-FiIn the upper right corner or in the list of networks, find the blue information icon (i) next to the network name. The menu that opens will contain a "Password" field, which is hidden by dots by default. Tap this field.
The system will request identity verification via Face ID, Touch ID, or your screen unlock passcode. Upon successful authentication, the dots will turn into readable text, and a "Copy" button will appear. This allows you to instantly share the password with another device via AirDrop or Messages.
⚠️ Note: The password viewer feature is only available on iOS 16 and later. If you have an older version of the operating system, you won't be able to view your password using standard tools. You'll need to update your device or use a Mac with the same iCloud account.
Also worth mentioning is the "Passwords" feature in the iPhone's main settings. It stores all saved logins and passwords, including Wi-Fi. Path: Settings → PasswordsFind the desired network in the list, and you will see full access details.
Login to the router's web interface
If none of your devices are connected to the network or you want to find out the password for the guest network, the most secure way is to access the router's settings. To do this, you'll need to connect your computer or phone to the router via a LAN cable or Wi-Fi (if you still have access).
Open your browser and enter your router's IP address in the address bar. Most often, this is 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1 or a domain name (eg my.keenetic.net). You will be asked to enter your login and password to access the admin panel. By default, this is often admin/admin, if you haven't changed them before.
After logging in, find the section related to wireless network. It may be called Wireless, Wi-Fi, Wireless mode or WLANWithin this section, there will be a subsection called "Security" or "Wi-Fi Settings." This is where the current SSID and password (WPA/WPA2 Key) are displayed.
While the interfaces of different routers vary, the logic remains the same. The table below shows sample paths for popular models:
| Router model | Path to the menu | Password field name |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | Wireless → Wireless Security | Wireless Password |
| D-Link | Wi-Fi → Security Settings | PSK encryption key |
| ASUS | More → Wireless Network | WPA Pre-Shared Key |
If you've forgotten your router's admin panel password, you'll need to perform a factory reset. To do this, press and hold the small button on the router for 10-15 seconds. This will reset the device to the factory logins listed on the sticker.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if I have never connected to this network?
No, it's impossible for the average user to find out the password remotely without access to the router or another device already connected to the network. Hacking secure networks (WPA2/WPA3) is illegal and requires sophisticated equipment.
What should I do if the "Show Password" button is grayed out on Windows?
This means your current account doesn't have administrator privileges. You need to log in as an administrator or ask the computer owner to show you the password.
How to find out your neighbor's Wi-Fi password legally?
The only legal way is to ask your neighbor directly. Any attempt to guess the password or use special programs to hack someone else's network violates computer information laws.
Where are Wi-Fi passwords stored in the cloud?
For Apple users, they are stored in iCloud Keychain. For Android (Google) users, they are stored in their Google account. For Windows users, they are stored in the Microsoft cloud if settings sync is enabled.
Is it possible to recover the password if the router is reset?
If you perform a reset, all user settings, including the changed password, are deleted. The router returns to its factory default state, and the password is reset to the one written on the sticker. It is impossible to restore the old changed password after a reset.