Many users are familiar with the situation of needing to connect a new device to a network but forgetting the password. Fortunately, modern mobile devices often save their connection information for automatic future connections. Restore access You can access this information in several ways, depending on the version of your smartphone's operating system.
Owners of devices with Android 10 and newer versions are in the best position, as Google has integrated a native password viewer into the system settings. Users of older versions will have to resort to additional tools or router settings. Let's take a step-by-step look at all the current methods.
Android — is a flexible system that is constantly evolving, changing the way network connections are managed. While in the early stages of the platform's development, viewing saved keys was only possible with superuser rights, it has now become a standard security and convenience feature. Starting with Android 10, the QR code for connection contains an encrypted password that can be decrypted.
Method for Android 10 and newer via QR code
The simplest and most secure method doesn't require installing any third-party software. It's available on most modern smartphones from Samsung, Xiaomi, Pixel, and other manufacturers. Simply access the wireless settings menu.
Open Settings your device and go to the section Wi-Fi or ConnectionsFind a network you're already connected to, or select a saved network from the list of available networks. Click the gear icon next to the access point's name.
On the network information screen that opens, find the button Share or a QR code icon. The system will ask you to verify your identity using screen unlock, fingerprint, or Face ID. A QR code will then appear on the screen for you to scan.
- 📱 On Xiaomi and Redmi smartphones, the password text is often written in small font directly below the QR code.
- 📸 On a pure Android (Pixel, Motorola), you need to take a screenshot of the code or point the camera of another phone at it.
- 🔍 Use Google Lens or the built-in scanner in your camera to recognize data in the image.
If the password text isn't displayed directly below the graph, take a screenshot. Then open the screenshot using Google Photos or Google Lens. The system will recognize the text within the image and display a string containing the security key in plain text.
Viewing through Google account settings
In more recent interface updates Android Google has moved password management into a single security center. This allows you to sync data across devices if the option is enabled.
Go to General Settings phone. Find the section Google and select the item Autofill. Next, go to Google Autocomplete and select Google PasswordsYou will need authorization.
In the list of saved data, find your router's address or network name. Clicking on it will reveal your login and password. To reveal hidden characters, click the eye icon. This works even if you're not currently connected to the network.
This method is especially useful if you want to find the password on a device that currently doesn't have an active Wi-Fi connection but has previously connected successfully. The data is stored in your account's secure vault.
Using router settings
If software methods don't work, you can always use an internet sharing source. To do this, you'll need any browser and access to the router's admin interface. This method works for all OS versions.
Open your browser and enter your router's IP address in the address bar. Most often, this is 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1The exact address is often written on a sticker on the bottom of the device. Enter your username and password to access the control panel.
After authorization, find the section Wireless, Wi-Fi or Wireless mode. In subsections Wireless Security or Wireless security The current security key is displayed. You can copy it or just view it.
| Router brand | Standard IP | Menu section |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Wireless -> Wireless Security |
| Asus | 192.168.1.1 | Advanced settings -> Wireless network |
| D-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Wi-Fi -> Security Settings |
| Keenetic | 192.168.1.1 | Home network -> Wi-Fi network |
⚠️ Note: If you changed the password for entering the router settings and forgot it, you will have to reset the device to factory settings using the Reset button.
Control panel interfaces may vary depending on the model and firmware version. Interfaces are frequently updated by manufacturers, so the layout of menu items may change. If you can't find the section you need, consult the official documentation for your router model.
What to do if the IP address does not open?
Make sure your phone is connected to the router's network (even without internet access). If the address still doesn't load, check your DNS settings or try switching to mobile data if the router allows external access.
ADB Commands for Advanced Users
For users who do not want to get root rights, but have access to the computer, there is a debugging method through Android Debug BridgeThis method requires enabling developer mode on your smartphone.
Connect your phone to your PC via a USB cable. Make sure USB debugging is enabled on your device. Open a command prompt on your computer in the folder where ADB is installed. Enter the following command to access the shell.
adb shellNext, you need to request access to the Wi-Fi configuration file. However, starting with Android 10, access to this file (/data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore.xml) is closed to regular applications and commands. This method may only work on older OS versions or with specific permissions.
- 🔌 A physical connection via USB cable is required.
- 💻 You need a computer with ADB drivers installed.
- ⚙️ Debug mode must be enabled in the developer menu.
This method is considered technically complex for the average user. In today's security environment, Google restricts direct access to system files, making this method unusable on newer devices without full root privileges.
Using recovery apps
In the store Google Play There are many utilities that promise to reveal saved passwords. However, it's important to understand the security limitations of the system. Without root access, these apps often only show networks created or saved through them.
Scanner apps can be useful for network security analysis, but they can't always extract keys from Android's system storage without special permissions. They often act as password managers, storing data manually.
⚠️ Warning: Be wary of apps that require excessive permissions. Many of them may collect your personal information under the guise of useful functionality.
Some utilities exploit vulnerabilities or special services to gain access, but Google regularly patches these security holes. Therefore, relying on third-party software should only come from trusted sources and be done with an understanding of the risks.
Problems on older versions of Android
If you have a device with an OS version earlier than 10, the situation is more complicated. In these versions, the network configuration file is more tightly protected, and it's impossible to view the password using standard tools.
The only working option for the old ones Android The only option left is to gain superuser (root) rights. This gives full access to the file system. However, this action voids the warranty and may disrupt the operation of banking applications.
Once you have root access, you can use file managers with access to system partitions (for example, Root Explorer). You need to follow the path /data/misc/wifi/ and open the file wpa_supplicant.confAll networks and keys to them will be listed inside in text form.
- 🛡️ Root rights provide access to all system files.
- ⚠️ This will void your device's warranty.
- 📉 You may need to reflash the firmware to return it to its original state.
Consider rooting only as a last resort. For a one-time password review, it's easier to reset the router and set new settings than to risk the stability of your smartphone.
☑️ Check before rooting
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if I have never connected to this network from this phone?
No, if the device has never been connected to the network and the data hasn't been synced via a Google account from another device, it's impossible to find the password programmatically. Access to the router or questioning the owner would be required.
Are Wi-Fi hacking apps safe to use?
Using such apps to connect to other people's networks is illegal. Furthermore, most of them contain viruses or miners. Use only legal methods to recover your data.
What should I do if the QR code doesn't show the password in text?
On some operating systems (such as MIUI or older versions of Android), text may be hidden. In this case, take a screenshot and use Google Lens to recognize the text in the image.
Will resetting network settings on my phone reset my Wi-Fi settings?
Yes, resetting network settings will delete all saved Wi-Fi networks and Bluetooth pairings. You'll have to re-enter passwords for all access points.