Forgot your home Wi-Fi password and your guests need to connect urgently? Or reinstalled your router but lost the sticker with the code? iPhone There is no direct way to view the saved network password - unlike Android, where it can be done in two clicks. But there are workarounds! In this article, we'll look at all working methods, including hidden functions iOS, synchronization via iCloud Keychain and even use Mac (if you have it at hand).
Important: Features may vary by version. iOS. In the latest updates Apple simplified access to passwords, but for older models (iPhone 6/7/8 on iOS 12-14) additional steps will be required. We've taken all the details into account—choose your option.
⚠️ Warning: Some methods require Jailbreak or installing third-party apps. This may void your device's warranty and security. Use them at your own risk!
1. Method for iOS 16 and later: Password in Network Settings
Starting from iOS 16, Apple Finally added the ability to view passwords for saved networks without additional manipulationsHere's how it works:
- Open
Settings→Wi-Fi. - Find your network in the list (it should be connected) and tap on the icon «i» on the right.
- Click on the field
Password— the system will askFace ID/Touch IDor the device passcode. - After authentication, the password will be displayed in readable format. You can copy it by holding your finger on the text.
✅ Pros: Fast, does not require third-party tools, works on all models with iOS 16+ (iPhone 8 and newer).
❌ Cons: On iOS 15 and this method is older doesn't work — the password field is simply missing from the menu.
Make sure your iPhone is connected to the correct Wi-Fi network|Check your iOS version (Settings → General → About)|Get ready to enter your device passcode or use Face/Touch ID-->
2. iCloud Keychain: Sync passwords between devices
If you have Mac, iPad or another iPhone with the same account iCloud, the Wi-Fi password can be extracted through iCloud Keychain — built-in password manager AppleThis method works even on older versions. iOS, but requires access to another device.
Instructions for Mac:
- Open the app
Keychain Access(can be found viaSpotlight- clickCmd + Spaceand enter the name). - Enter the name of your Wi-Fi network in the search bar.
- Double-click on the found entry → check the box
Show password. - Enter your account password Mac - after this the Wi-Fi password will be displayed.
Instructions for another iPhone/iPad:
On the second device with the same account iCloud:
- Go to
Settings→Passwords(authentication required). - Enter the name of the Wi-Fi network in the search.
- Tap on the entry →
Show password.
💡 Important: For this method iCloud Keychain must be enabled on both devices (Settings → [your name] → iCloud → Keychain). If this feature is disabled, passwords will not sync.
MacBook/iMac|iPad|Other iPhone|Android device|None of the above-->
3. Using Shortcuts to Retrieve Password
For users iOS 12–15 There is a semi-official workaround via the app Shortcuts (previously called Workflow). This method requires the creation of a special script, but does not violate the rules Apple.
Step-by-step instructions:
- Install Shortcuts from App Store (if deleted).
- Download ready-made label to extract Wi-Fi passwords (note: links to third-party shortcuts may be blocked - look in trusted repositories like RoutineHub).
- Run the shortcut → select your network from the list → copy the password.
⚠️ Warning: Not all shortcuts are safe. Check the author's reviews and rating before installing. Apple may block such scripts in newer versions iOS.
Why does Apple restrict access to Wi-Fi passwords?
Apple believes that directly issuing passwords to users increases the risk of data leakage. In contrast, Android, where passwords are stored in clear text, iOS encrypts them in Keychain and requires explicit confirmation for access. This is part of the company's security policy aimed at protecting against malware and unauthorized access.
4. Jailbreak: A Radical Method for Advanced Users
If on yours iPhone installed Jailbreak, you can gain full access to system files where Wi-Fi passwords are stored. This method is suitable for all versions of iOS, but has serious risks:
- 🔧 Breach of warranty Apple.
- 🛡️ Vulnerability to viruses and hacker attacks.
- 🔄 Possible malfunctions of the device.
Instructions:
- Install from Cydia tweak
WiFi PasswordsorNetworkList. - Open the app - it will show a list of all saved networks and their passwords.
- Copy the desired password or export the list.
⚠️ Attention: After installation Jailbreak Apple Pay, iCloud and other services may stop working. Furthermore, banking apps often block access on jailbroken devices.
5. Alternative methods: router and third-party applications
If none of the above methods worked, there are two options left:
A. View the password in the router settings
Connect to the router via a browser (usually at 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1) and find the section Wireless Security or Wi-FiThere will be a field there. Password/Key with the current password. The login and password for logging into the router are usually indicated on the device's sticker (e.g., admin/admin).
B. Use third-party applications (with reservations)
IN App Store There are apps like WiFi Password Show or Network Analyzer, but their capabilities are severely limited by politics Apple. Most of them:
- 📱 Only works on devices with
Jailbreak. - 🔍 Shows only the networks you are currently connected to.
- 💰 Requires purchase Pro versions for full functionality.
| Way | Works on iOS | Required | Risks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wi-Fi Settings (iOS 16+) | 16, 17 | Device passcode | No |
| iCloud Keychain | Any | Mac/iPad with the same account | No |
| Shortcuts | 12–15 | Installing a shortcut | Apple Blocking |
| Jailbreak | Any | Hacking the system | Tall |
| Router settings | Any | Access to 192.168.0.1 | No |
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
When trying to find out the Wi-Fi password on iPhone Users often encounter typical problems:
- 🔄 "There is no password field in the Wi-Fi settings." → You have iOS 15 or older. Use iCloud Keychain or Shortcuts.
- 🔒 "Unable to log into the router" → Reset the router using the button
Reset(hold for 10 seconds) and use the data from the sticker. - ⚠️ Shortcuts doesn't show the password. → Update the app or check permissions in
Settings→Privacy. - 📱 "The jailbreak broke after the update." → Restore iPhone through DFU mode and roll back to the old firmware.
💡 Advice: If you often forget your passwords, create a note in Apple Notes with important codes and protect it with a password. Or use password managers like 1Password or Bitwarden.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password on an iPhone without jailbreaking?
Yes, in iOS 16+ This is done through the network settings (see Method 1). It will help on older versions. iCloud Keychain (if any) Mac/iPad) or Shortcuts.
Why is there no "Show password" button in the Wi-Fi settings?
This feature was only introduced in iOS 16If you have an older version, update your device or use the alternative methods in the article.
Is it possible to find out the password for someone else's network that my iPhone connected to?
Technically yes, but you need it Jailbreak or access to Mac with synchronized iCloud Keychain. However illegal use of other people's networks is prohibited and may result in legal liability.
What should I do if I forgot my iCloud password and can't use Keychain?
Restore access to iCloud through official Apple serviceIf this is not possible, there are still ways with Shortcuts or router settings.
Will Shortcuts work after iOS update?
Apple may block such shortcuts in newer versions. If the script stops working after an update, check its current status on the developer's website or use another method.
If none of the methods worked, the most reliable option is reset the router settings (button Reset) and set it up again. The default password is usually found on the device's sticker.