Many users are familiar with the situation of needing to connect a new device to the network but forgetting the password. Often, the code is written on a sticker under the router, but over time, the label wears off or the device is moved to a hard-to-reach location. In this case, a natural question arises: how can you find the WiFi password without resetting the device to factory settings?
Fortunately, operating systems and routers store security keys in their registries. Access to this data You can obtain it legally if you already have at least one device that has successfully connected to this network before. We'll look at several proven methods for different platforms.
It is important to understand that all the methods described below only work if you are a network administrator or have physical access to the device. Hacking other people's networks is an illegal action. Below are instructions for restoring access to your own infrastructure.
Viewing a saved password in Windows 10 and 11
The Windows operating system automatically saves profiles of all networks your computer has ever connected to. This is the easiest way to find a lost password if your laptop or PC is already connected to the same network. You don't need any third-party programs or complex calculations.
To get started, open the Network Control Panel. Right-click the WiFi icon in the system tray (near the clock) and select Network and Sharing CenterIn the window that opens, find the active wireless connection and click on its name. In the status that appears, click the button Wireless network properties.
Go to the tab SecurityThis is where the information you are looking for is stored. By default, the field Network security key Hidden by asterisks. To see the symbols, you need to check the box next to the item. Show entered characters.
If you don't have administrator rights, the system may ask you to confirm the action. Without the appropriate permissions, you won't be able to see hidden characters due to an OS security limitation.
⚠️ Attention: If you don't see the Security tab or entry fields, make sure you're viewing the properties of your wireless adapter, not your Ethernet connection.
An alternative and faster method for experienced users is to use the command line. This method allows you to display the password for any saved network, even if you're not currently connected to it.
Run the command prompt as administrator. To do this, click Win + X and select Windows PowerShell (Administrator) or Command Prompt (Administrator)Enter the command to view the list of profiles:
netsh wlan show profilesFind your network name in the list. Then enter the command to display details, adding the key key=clear:
netsh wlan show profile name="Network_Name" key=clearIn the security information block, find the line Key contentYour password will be displayed there in clear text. This method works reliably on all modern versions of Windows.
What to do if the command fails?
Make sure the network name in quotation marks is written exactly as it appears in the profile list, including spaces and case. Also, check that the console is running as an administrator.
How to view your password on an Android smartphone
Owners of Android devices often need to share WiFi with guests. Modern versions of the operating system (starting with Android 10) allow not only the generation of QR codes but also the viewing of the password itself in text format.
Go to Settings your smartphone. Go to the section Wi-Fi or ConnectionsClick on the name of the current network or the gear icon next to it. In the menu that opens, find the button Share or QR code.
After verifying your identity (face scan, fingerprint, or PIN entry), a QR code will appear on the screen. On most operating systems (Samsung OneUI, Xiaomi MIUI, stock Android), a text password will be written below or next to the code.
- 📱 Samsung: Click "Share", scan your face, and the password text will be under the QR code.
- 🤖 Xiaomi/Redmi: Click on the network, select "Share", the password is displayed below the graph.
- 📲 Pure Android (Pixel, Motorola): Share menu, password is at the bottom of the screen.
If you have an older version of Android (9 and below), there may not be a built-in password viewer. In this case, you will need root rights Or use special apps that can read system WiFi configuration files. However, gaining root access may void the device's warranty.
Restoring access via iPhone and iPad
Apple ecosystem users were long unable to view their saved passwords, but with the release of iOS 16, this feature became available. This significantly simplifies life for those using Apple devices. Apple.
To view your password, follow these steps:
- Open
Settingson your iPhone or iPad. - Go to the section
Wi-Fi. - Find the network you need to find the password for and click on the blue icon
Information (i)to the right of the name. - Tap the hidden field Password.
The system will require biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID) or a device passcode. Once verified, the passcode will be displayed in text format and can be copied.
It's important to note that iCloud Keychain must be enabled for passwords to sync across devices. If you change your password on one device, it should update on all other devices signed in to the same Apple ID.
Finding the password in the router's web interface
The most secure method, which works regardless of the connected client type (phone, tablet, TV), is to access the router's settings. All network parameters are stored there, including the encryption type and security key.
To log in, you'll need a browser and your router's address. This is usually 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1 or a domain name (eg tplinkwifi.net, my.keenetic.net). The address is often found on a sticker on the bottom of the device.
Enter the address in the browser's address bar. You'll be greeted with a login window. If you've never changed the factory settings, your login and password are also on the sticker (often this is admin/admin).
After entering the control panel, the interface may differ depending on the model (TP-Link, ASUS, D-Link, Keenetic). You need to find the section related to wireless network. It may be called Wireless, Wi-Fi, Wireless mode or WLAN.
☑️ Finding the router password
Inside the section, look for the field Wireless Password, PSK Password or Wireless network keyThis is where your current password is listed. You can not only view it, but also change it to a more complex one. Don't forget to click the button afterward. Save or Apply.
⚠️ Attention: If you change the password in your router settings, all connected devices will lose internet connection. You'll have to reconnect each device using the new password.
Let's look at sample paths for popular brands in the table below to make it easier for you to navigate:
| Router brand | Path to the menu | Field name |
|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | Wireless -> Wireless Security | Wireless Password |
| ASUS | Additional settings -> Wireless network | Authentication Method / WPA Pre-Shared Key |
| D-Link | Wi-Fi -> Security Settings | PSK encryption key |
| Keenetic | My Networks and Wi-Fi -> Home Network | Password |
| Tenda | Wireless Settings -> Wireless Security | Wireless Password |
Firmware interfaces are subject to update, and the layout of options sometimes changes. If you can't find the section you need, look for the "Quick Setup Wizard" button in the menu—the password is often displayed there as one of the first steps.
Using third-party programs and utilities
There are many WiFi connection management programs that can display saved passwords. One of the most well-known and time-tested tools is the utility WirelessKeyView from NirSoft.
This program doesn't require installation. Simply download the archive, unzip it, and run the executable file. The utility will automatically scan all saved WiFi profiles and display them in a list.
In the column Key (ASCII) You'll see the password in plain text. The program also allows you to copy the key to the clipboard or save a list of all networks to a text file.
Third-party utility security
Although WirelessKeyView is a legitimate tool, antivirus programs may detect it as a "HackTool" because it retrieves saved passwords. Only add an exception if you downloaded the file from the developer's official website.
Another option is to use password managers such as Wi-Fi Password ViewerThey operate on a similar principle: they access the Windows system registry, where encrypted keys are stored, and decode them.
Only use such programs from trusted sources. Downloading software from dubious sites can infect your computer with viruses that can steal not only WiFi passwords but also bank card information.
What to do if nothing helps
In rare cases, none of the devices remember the password, the router is locked with a previously changed administrator password, and the sticker has been erased. In this situation, the only remaining option is a final, radical solution.
You will have to reset your router to factory settings (Hard Reset). There is a small hole with the inscription on the device body. Reset or DefaultYou need to press it with a thin object (paper clip, toothpick) and hold it for about 10-15 seconds until the indicators blink.
After rebooting, the router will return to its out-of-the-box state. The WiFi password will be the one on the sticker (or disappear if the network was open). However, keep in mind: resetting will delete all your settings, including the type of connection to the provider (PPPoE, L2TP, etc.), which will have to be entered again.
If you're unsure of your abilities, it's best not to take any risks. Try finding your contract with your provider—it often contains the standard login details—or contact your internet service provider's support team.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the WiFi password if I'm not connected to the network?
Directly from your phone or computer—no, unless the device has never connected to this network before. However, if you have physical access to the router, you can connect to it via a LAN cable or through the web interface (if available) and view the settings.
Where can I find the password if the router was provided by my ISP?
ISPs often set complex passwords that aren't listed on the sticker. In this case, the best solution is to call your provider's technical support. They can dictate the password or reset it remotely to factory defaults.
Does the QR code method work on all Android phones?
The QR code generation feature with password preview was introduced in Android 10. On older versions (Android 9 and below), the QR code can be generated, but the password will not be displayed in text. The interface may also differ on custom skins.
Is it safe to save passwords in your browser?
Modern browsers (Chrome, Edge, Firefox) securely encrypt saved passwords. However, if someone gains access to your unlocked computer, they will be able to see them in your settings. It's recommended to use a browser master password for additional security.
How do I change my password to a more complex one?
The easiest way to do this is through the router's web interface (Wireless Security section). It's recommended to use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters, at least 12 characters long. Avoid simple strings like "12345678."