How to find the WiFi password on a Xiaomi smartphone

Connecting a new device to a wireless network but forgetting or losing the password is one of the most common problems in today's digital environment. Smartphone owners Xiaomi, running under shell control MIUI or new HyperOS, often face the question of how to quickly and securely retrieve saved authorization data directly from the phone's memory. Fortunately, modern versions of the operating system Android provide built-in tools to accomplish this task without the need to install third-party software or obtain superuser rights.

In this article, we'll take a detailed look at all current methods for obtaining an access key, from standard system functions to more complex technical solutions. Data security remains a priority, so most methods require the owner's identity to be verified via biometrics or a PIN. You'll receive comprehensive information on how encryption keys are stored in Android and how to legally access them for sharing with guests or configuring a router.

Using the QR code feature in MIUI

The easiest and fastest way, available on most modern smartphones Xiaomi with version Android 10 and above, is to generate a QR code. This method does not require root access and works normally in the settings menu. You need to go to the section Settings → Wi-Fi, which will display a list of available networks. Click the name of the network you're currently connected to or the arrow icon next to it to open the connection details.

On the screen that opens, you will see a large QR code, which is designed for quickly connecting other devices. Code scanner It's built right into the camera of most phones, so guests can read it instantly. However, to see the password itself in plain text, you often need to take a screenshot of the screen or simply look under the code, where in newer versions MIUI The text may be hidden by asterisks. If the text is hidden, use the "Show Password" feature or take a screenshot and open it through Google Lens or built-in image analyzer.

⚠️ Note: When a QR code appears on the screen, your device may temporarily disable the lock to facilitate scanning. Make sure there are no unauthorized people nearby who could gain access to your network.

This method is the most preferred by users who don't want to delve into the technical settings of the system. It provides a balance between convenience and perimeter protection your local network. If the standard interface doesn't display the numbers clearly, proceed to the following methods, which allow you to bypass the shell's visual limitations.

Viewing via Google settings and sync

Ecosystem Google offers a powerful password management tool that syncs across all devices linked to your account. If your Xiaomi Sync is enabled, saved Wi-Fi keys can be accessed through the security menu. Go to Settings → Google → Autofill → Autofill from GoogleThis is where all your logins and access keys are stored.

In the "Passwords" or "Password Manager" section, find the tab for Wi-Fi networks. The list will be sorted by access point name. Select the desired network from the list, after which the system will request fingerprint verification. Face ID or a pattern. After successful authentication, you'll see not only the network name (SSID) but also the full password in plaintext, which can be copied to the clipboard.

• 🔑 Access to passwords is only possible after successful biometric or digital authorization of the owner.
• 🔄 Data is synchronized in real time when there is an active internet connection.
• 📱 You can view saved keys not only on your phone, but also through a browser on your PC in your Google account.

Using a password manager from Google — is a reliable method for centralized access management. However, it's important to remember that this method requires an active internet connection, which creates a logical paradox if there's no internet connection at all. In such cases, rely on local viewing methods.

Using third-party apps without root

In the store Google Play There are many utilities available in the alternative directories that can display saved passwords. It's important to understand that without superuser rights (Root) these applications do not have direct access to the system file wpa_supplicant.conf, where the keys are stored. Instead, they use special APIs or accessibility functions (Accessibility Service) to automatically read information from the screen or emulate user actions.

One popular solution is to use scanner applications that analyze system logs or use built-in debugging features. For example, the application WiFi Password Viewer (or its equivalent) may request accessibility permission. After enabling this feature in the menu Special features The application is given the right to read the text displayed in system dialog boxes and can "press" the show password button for you.

When installing such utilities, it is critical to check the permissions they request. Third-party software may have access to your personal data if you don't check the developer's reputation. It's recommended to use only time-tested apps with numerous positive reviews and open source code to minimize the risk of information leakage.

Why do apps ask for strange permissions?

Many password viewer apps request access to "Accessibility." This isn't a virus, but a necessity, as Android prevents regular apps from directly accessing system password files. Through this interface, the app emulates keystrokes and reads text from the screen, bypassing security restrictions.

Getting a password with root rights

For users with superuser rights (Root), the process of obtaining a password becomes trivial and does not require any workarounds. Having root access (obtained, for example, through Magisk) allows you to read protected system files, which Android Stores network connection configurations. This is the most direct and technically correct method, available only to advanced users.

You will need a file manager with root access support, such as Root Explorer, MT Manager or Solid ExplorerAfter launching the application, you need to activate superuser mode (usually a button in the top menu) and grant access rights when prompted. Then, follow the path: /data/misc/wifi/. It is in this directory that the file is located. WifiConfigStore.xml (in newer versions of Android) or wpa_supplicant.conf (in older versions).

/data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore.xml

Opening this file with a text editor will display a list of all networks ever saved. The password you're looking for will be in the field. PreSharedKey or next to the tag passphrase in unencrypted form. System files are critical for the operation of the OS, so after viewing, be sure to close the file without making any changes to avoid disrupting the operation of the network module.

⚠️ Warning: Editing or deleting lines in system configuration files may prevent your phone from seeing Wi-Fi networks or from connecting to them at all. Make a backup copy of the file before making any changes.

This method gives you complete control over your device's network settings. Not only can you find out the password, but you can also delete unnecessary network profiles or change security settings directly in the configuration code. However, keep in mind that root access reduces the overall security of your device, making it more vulnerable to malware.

Restoring via the router's web interface

If your phone is connected to Wi-Fi but you can't find the password using standard methods, you can use feedback through the router itself. Since your device Xiaomi is already within the local network, you have access to the router's administrative panel. This method is universal and works regardless of the version. Android or having root rights.

First, you need to find out the gateway IP address. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → (Network name)In the "IP Settings" or "Details" section, find the "Gateway" line. This is usually the address 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1Enter this address into the address bar of any browser on your phone. The router authorization page will open.

Here you will need the administrator login and password. If you have never changed them, they are listed on a sticker on the bottom of the router (often this is admin/admin). If the data has been changed and forgotten, you will have to reset the router using the button Reset, which will disconnect all devices. Once you've logged into the control panel, find the section Wireless or Wireless mode, where in the field WPA/WPA2-PSK The current password will be indicated.

• 🌐 This method works even if your phone doesn't have internet access, as long as it has a Wi-Fi connection to the router.
• 🔒 The router admin password and the Wi-Fi password are different, so don't confuse them.
• ⚙️ Router interface TP-Link, Asus, Keenetic differs, but the logic for searching the Wireless section is the same.

Using a web interface is a professional approach to network diagnostics. It allows you to not only find out the password, but also check which devices are connected to your network and, if necessary, block unknown users, ensuring network hygiene and protection from unauthorized access.

Problems and limitations of modern versions of Android

With each operating system update Android (especially starting with versions 11 and 12) company Google is implementing increasingly stringent restrictions on app access to sensitive data. This is part of a strategy Sandboxing (sandboxing), which isolates applications from each other. This is why the old methods that worked on Android 6-9, on modern Xiaomi may not work without special permissions.

The main difficulty is that the password file is now encrypted and tied to a specific device. Even with root access, additional decryption is sometimes required. Furthermore, the shell MIUI has an aggressive power saving policy that can block background processes of scanning applications unless you add them to the exceptions (autostart, no battery limits).

Users should be prepared for the fact that some "magic" apps from the store may not work or contain ads. System limitations This isn't a bug, but a feature designed to protect your data. Therefore, the most secure method remains the QR code or logging into the router control panel, as they use legitimate channels for interacting with the system.

Is it possible to find out the password if the phone has never connected to this network?

No, this is technically impossible. A smartphone only stores keys for networks it has successfully connected to before. If the device doesn't know the password, it won't be stored anywhere in the phone's memory. The only option is to ask the router owner or look at the sticker on the device itself.

Will resetting my phone to factory settings reset my Wi-Fi settings?

Yes, a full reset (Hard Reset) or "Second Space" completely deletes the partition /data/, where Wi-Fi configurations are stored. After the reset, the phone will be "clean" and will not remember any networks; passwords will have to be re-entered.

Are password viewer apps safe to use?

Using such apps carries risks. By granting access to your screen or file system, you're trusting the developer with your data. It's better to use built-in Android features or Google Account, which are protected by the ecosystem and don't share data with third parties.

What to do if the QR code does not scan?

Try increasing your screen brightness. If that doesn't help, take a screenshot, open it in Gallery, and tap "Google Lens" or "Search by image." You can also try rotating your phone or changing the angle when scanning.