It's quite common for smartphone owners to need to connect a new device to a wireless network but have forgotten or lost the password. Xiaomi And Redmi People often look for ways to extract this data directly from their device's memory, so they don't have to search for a router or call their ISP. Fortunately, the shell MIUI provides built-in tools to solve this problem without the need to hack the system.
In this article, we'll cover all available methods, from standard features of Android 10 and above to advanced techniques for experienced users. You won't need any complex equipment; all you need is access to the screen of a smartphone that's already connected to the desired network. Saved access keys are securely protected by the system, but we will show you legal ways to view them.
Before proceeding, make sure your smartphone is actually in range and has an active network connection. If the connection is unstable, the procedure may not proceed correctly. Let's take a look at how the system works. Android manages network connections and where that data is stored.
Using the QR code feature in MIUI
The easiest and fastest method, available on most modern models Redmi And Xiaomi With the updated shell, this is a QR code generator. The system allows you to share your network with another device by visualizing the access key as a graphical code. This method doesn't require installing third-party software and works within the system settings.
To get started, open the settings and go to the section Wi-FiTap the name of the network you're connected to or the arrow next to it. A QR code will appear on the screen, which you can scan with another phone. However, to view the password in plain text, you'll need to take an additional step.
Take a screenshot of the QR code that appears. Then open the app. Google Lens (Google Lens) or any similar QR code scanner in your gallery. Point the camera at a saved image or select one from your memory. The system will recognize the code and often reveal hidden text, which is your WiFi password.
It is worth noting that in some versions MIUI The password may be displayed in small print directly below the QR code. Carefully inspect the screen before taking a screenshot. If there is no text, scanning the image is the most effective method.
Viewing through Android 10 and later settings
Starting with the tenth version of the operating system AndroidGoogle has introduced a native feature for viewing saved networks. Device owners Redmi With the latest software, you can use this feature without any hacks. The interface may vary slightly depending on the version. MIUI, but the logic remains the same.
Go to the menu Settings, then select the item Wi-FiClick the gear or arrow next to the active network name. In the window that opens, find the button Share or a QR code icon. This is where the information you're looking for is often hidden.
Unlike older versions, which required root access, modern systems allow more flexible access control. However, if the password field is hidden by dots and doesn't appear even when tapped, the manufacturer has limited this feature in your specific firmware. In this case, you'll have to resort to alternative methods.
⚠️ Note: The menu interface may change after system updates. If you don't find the described options, check the current settings location in the official help center for your model's manufacturer.
It is important to understand that data security In modern smartphones, security is paramount. Therefore, access to the text version of a password is sometimes intentionally made difficult to prevent accidental information leakage to strangers.
Using ADB commands to extract data
For more advanced users who do not want to get root rights, but have basic PC skills, there is a debugging method ADB (Android Debug Bridge). This tool allows you to interact with your phone's system directly from your computer, accessing system configuration files.
The first step is to enable developer mode. Go to Settings → About the phone and quickly tap the build number seven times MIUIAfter this, the item will appear in the menu. Additionally → For developersYou need to turn it on there. USB debugging.
Connect your phone to your computer using a cable and install the drivers. ADB On your PC, open the command prompt and enter the command to get a list of saved networks. The system will ask for confirmation on your smartphone screen—be sure to click "Allow."
adb shell dumpsys wifi | grep"mConfiguredNetworks"This method requires careful attention, as the output can be extensive. You'll need to find your network name in the logs (SSID) and the corresponding key. If the standard output does not produce a result, you can use the command adb shell cat /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore.xml, but it will only work on devices with certain access rights or older versions of Android.
What to do if the computer doesn’t see the phone?
Make sure you're using the original cable, which supports data transfer and not just charging. Also, check if the ADB Interface drivers are installed in Windows Device Manager.
Checking via router and web interface
If you can't get data from your phone, the most reliable source of truth is the router itself. If you have physical access to the internet sharing device, you can log into its control panel. This is a universal method that works for any device, including Redmi, Samsung And iPhone.
Open a browser on your smartphone and enter the IP address of the router, usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1The address is often found on a sticker on the bottom of the device. You'll need to enter the administrator login and password (not the WiFi password).
After authorization, go to the section Wireless or Wireless network → Wireless SecurityThere in the field WPA/WPA2-PSK Key The current password will be displayed. You can not only view it, but also copy it or change it to a more complex one.
| Router brand | Standard IP | Default login | Default password |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | admin | admin |
| ASUS | 192.168.1.1 | admin | admin |
| Xiaomi Mi | 192.168.31.1 | - | no (set during setup) |
| D-Link | 192.168.0.1 | admin | empty |
Please remember that you can only access your router settings when connected to its network. If you reset your router, all passwords will be lost, and you'll have to set up the network again.
☑️ Checking access to the router
Third-party applications and file managers
There is a category of applications that are positioned as password recovery tools. However, on modern versions Android their functionality is severely limited by security policies Google. Without superuser rights (Root) they often show only the same QR code that is available in the system.
Apps like WiFi Key Recovery These may only be useful on older devices or after gaining full access rights. Installing such programs requires caution, as they request extensive permissions. Always check the developer's rating and reviews before installing.
An alternative way is to use file managers with access to system folders, for example, Root Explorer or MT Manager (if you have Root). The path to the configuration file usually looks like this: /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore.xml. Inside the XML file in the tag PreSharedKey the required key is stored.
⚠️ Warning: Rooting your device will void your warranty and may block some banking apps. Only do this if you fully understand the risks.
If you don't have root access, searching for apps called "Show WiFi Password" in the Play Store will likely install adware. It's best to use the built-in tools. MIUI or using the QR code method.
Security issues and data protection
Easily finding your WiFi password isn't just convenient, it's also risky. If your phone falls into the wrong hands, an intruder can quickly gain access to your home network. Therefore, it's important to be mindful of who has physical access to your phone. Redmi.
It's recommended to change your router passwords regularly, especially if you've granted access to guests. You can create a guest network in your router settings with a separate key that can be easily changed or disabled at any time without affecting your main network.
Use complex character combinations. Simple passwords like 12345678 or password hacked in seconds. Modern encryption standards WPA3 provide better protection, but require support from both the router and the connected devices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the WiFi password if the phone has never connected to this network?
No, this is impossible. The phone physically cannot know the password if it has never been entered or stored in the device's memory. Connection always requires the initial key entry or the use of a WPS/QR code.
Will the QR code method work on Android 9 and below?
On Android versions below 10, the native QR code generation feature for network sharing is often missing. In such cases, you'll need to use third-party apps (with root access) or access your router's settings.
Are password recovery apps safe to use?
Most of these apps require suspicious permissions. Without root access, they're useless, but with root access, they can become a backdoor for malware. It's better to use proven system methods.
Where is the WiFi password file stored on Redmi?
The configuration file is located at the path /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore.xmlAccess to this directory is only possible with superuser (Root) rights.