It's quite common for computer owners to need to connect a new device to a network but have forgotten the password. Apple People often don't know that the macOS operating system stores all access keys ever used in a special secure vault. Bunch of keys (Keychain) is a built-in security mechanism that remembers passwords for automatic future connections. If you're already online or have previously connected, restoring access is easy.
In this article, we'll look at several proven methods for extracting saved passwords. You can use the graphical interface via A bunch of keys, use the command line for quick results, or access the router's settings. Each method has its own peculiarities, but all allow you to obtain the necessary information without using third-party software.
It's important to understand that you'll need access to an administrator account to perform most operations. Without entering your account password, macOS The system will not allow you to view stored sensitive data. This is a standard security measure that ensures that unauthorized people cannot access your networks simply by walking up to your computer.
Using Keychain Access to Find a Password
The most reliable and secure way to find a saved password is to use the built-in utility Bunch of keysThis tool manages all the passwords, certificates, and keys stored on your MacThe system automatically saves WiFi access keys the first time you successfully connect, unless you manually disable this feature.
To start a search, you need to open the application. The easiest way to do this is through Spotlight: press the keyboard shortcut Command + Space and enter the utility's name. After launching the program, a list of all saved entries will open. In the left column, select the "Passwords" category to filter out unnecessary system entries and display only user data.
- 🔍 In the search bar, enter the name of your WiFi network (SSID) to find a specific entry.
- 🔑 Double-click on the found item to open the properties window.
- 👁️ Check the "Show password" box in the dialog box that opens.
- 🆔 Enter your administrator password or use Touch ID to verify your identity.
After successful authorization, the search string will appear in the field next to the checkbox. You can copy it or simply rewrite it. Please note that if the "Show password" checkbox is grayed out or hidden, the entry may have been corrupted or deleted from the database.
Restoring access via macOS Terminal
For users who prefer the speed and precision of the command line, there is a method via TerminalThis method allows you to obtain a password with a single command, bypassing graphical interfaces and multiple clicks. However, it requires careful syntax input, as the system is case-sensitive and space-sensitive.
Open the Terminal app via the Applications → Utilities folder or search for it. You'll need to enter a special command that will access the system utility. securityIt will ask the system for the data for the specified network from your keychain.
security find-generic-password -wa"Your_Network_Name"Replace the text in quotation marks with the exact name of your WiFi network. After pressing the key Enter The system will ask for permission to access the key. Enter the user account password, and the result will be displayed in plain text on the next line.
What to do if the command returns an error?
If you see an error message, check the spelling of the network name. It must match, including spaces and special characters. Also, make sure you've previously connected to this network on this computer.
View your password in Settings on macOS Ventura and later
In modern versions of the operating system, such as macOS Ventura, Sonoma And SequoiaApple has significantly simplified password management. No longer is it necessary to delve into deep system utilities—the key viewer function is built right into the main system settings. This makes the process as straightforward as possible for everyday users.
Go to the Apple menu (the apple in the upper left corner) and select "System Preferences." In the sidebar, find the "Wi-Fi" section. If you're currently connected to a network, you'll see its name at the top. If not, find the network in the list of known networks or click the "More" button (or the ellipsis/information icon) next to the WiFi switch.
In the list of networks that opens, find the desired connection. Next to the network name or in the connection details, you'll see a button with three dots or a copy icon. Tapping it will reveal the option to "Copy password" or "Show password." The system will again ask for confirmation via Touch ID or the user's passcode.
Checking the password through the router's web interface
If none of the computer-based methods work (for example, the password was removed from the keychain), the only option is to turn to the source of the signal—the router. The encryption key is stored in the router's wireless module configuration. To access this data, you'll need to connect to the router by any means, even without internet access.
Open your browser and enter the gateway IP address in the address bar. Standard addresses often look like this: 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.31.1The exact address can be found in the Mac system preferences under "Network" -> "Advanced" -> "TCP/IP", "Router" field.
After entering the address, you'll be asked to enter your username and password to access the admin panel. If you haven't changed them, they're often listed on a sticker on the bottom of the device (the default is admin/admin). Once inside, look for the "Wireless," "WiFi," or "Wireless Network" section. The current password will be displayed in the "Password," "WPA Pre-Shared Key," or "Security Key" field.
| Router brand | Typical IP address | Settings section | Standard login |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Wireless -> Wireless Security | admin |
| ASUS | 192.168.1.1 | Wireless Network -> General | admin |
| Keenetic | 192.168.1.1 | My Networks and Wi-Fi -> Home Network | admin |
| Tenda | 192.168.0.1 | Wireless Settings | admin |
Reset network settings and access keys
In some cases, Keychain may not work properly, displaying errors or failing to save new passwords. In these cases, it's a good idea to reset your network settings. This will delete all saved networks and their passwords from your Mac, restoring your network settings to factory defaults. This is a drastic but effective solution to connection issues.
To perform a reset on older versions of macOS, you can use the diagnostics menu. Hold down the Option and click the WiFi icon in the menu bar. Select "Open Wireless Diagnostics." From the top menu, select "Window" -> "Summary" or "Logs." However, to reset the keys, it's best to use the Keychain utility -> "Keychain" menu -> "Settings" -> "Reset Keychain."
In newer versions of macOS, the process has been simplified to just deleting configuration files. You need to go to Finder, click Command + Shift + G and enter the path /Library/Preferences/SystemConfiguration/Find files that contain in the name com.apple.airport.preferences.plist And com.apple.network.eapclient.configuration.plist, and delete them (after making a backup). After restarting, your Mac will recreate them.
⚠️ Attention: Before deleting system configuration files, be sure to back them up by moving them to your desktop. Deleting the wrong files may result in an inability to connect to any network.
☑️ Checklist before resetting the network
Common problems and their solutions
Even following the instructions, users may encounter difficulties. For example, the password may not be displayed if the keychain file permissions have been changed or if the file is corrupted. Problems also arise if the router uses corporate encryption protocols (802.1x), where the password is not stored in cleartext but is generated dynamically.
If the system requires a keychain password but refuses your current user password, you may have changed your macOS login password but not updated your keychain. In this case, you can create a new keychain via Keychain Access -> Preferences, but this will result in the loss of all previously saved passwords.
- 🛑 Problem: "The keychain cannot be unlocked." Solution: Create a new keychain and reconnect to the network.
- 📶 Problem: The router won't let me access the admin panel. Solution: Try resetting the router by pressing the Reset button for 10 seconds.
- 🔒 Problem: The password field is grayed out. Solution: Make sure your account has administrator rights.
Once you've regained access, consider changing your key to a more complex one if it seems too simple. Use a combination of letters, numbers, and special characters, at least 12 characters long.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces and menu item names may vary depending on the model and firmware version. If you can't find the item you need, consult the official documentation from your device manufacturer.
Is it possible to hack someone else's WiFi with a Mac?
Using specialized software to brute-force passwords or exploit WPS vulnerabilities is illegal without the network owner's permission. This article is for informational purposes only, and is intended to help you regain access to YOUR networks.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the WiFi password physically located on a router?
There's usually a sticker on the bottom or back of your router. Look for the "WPA/WPA2 Key," "Wireless Password," or "PIN" fields. This will show the factory password if you haven't changed it.
Why does my Mac say "incorrect password" even though I'm entering the correct one?
The encryption type may have been changed on your router or MAC address filtering may be enabled. Try "Forget Network" in the WiFi settings and reconnect, entering the details again.
Is it possible to see the WiFi password if I'm not connected to it?
No, macOS only stores passwords for networks your device has previously connected to. To view the password for a network you're currently not connected to, you need access to your router's admin panel.
How to transfer password from iPhone to Mac?
If both devices are signed into the same iCloud and are nearby, simply hold your iPhone close to your Mac when attempting to connect. A prompt will appear on your phone's screen to share your password.