A situation when friends come to visit you or you need to connect a new gadget to your home network, but the password for it Wi-Fi completely slipped my memory, it's found everywhere. Smartphone owners Xiaomi are in a particularly advantageous position, since the shell MIUI (and her heir HyperOS) provides built-in tools for viewing this data without having to "break" the system. Security The connection here is combined with a user-friendly interface that allows you to quickly restore access.
Previously, access to such information required permissions. Root and third-party file managers, which was unsafe and complicated for the average user. Today, algorithms Android have changed, and starting with version 10, and especially in the current versions 11, 12, 13 and 14, the system allows for the legitimate extraction of access keys. This critical for home network administration, when you need to manually enter the address on a printer or smart light bulb that does not have a screen.
In this guide, we'll cover all the working methods, from standard settings to advanced methods for experienced users. You'll learn how to generate QR codes and use console commands via ADB and understand where exactly encrypted data is stored in the system. The main thing is to follow the sequence of actions and carefully adhere to the security requirements of the operating system itself.
The standard method is via QR code in MIUI and HyperOS
The easiest and most accessible method, which doesn't require installing any additional software, is to use the "Share" or "QR code" function built into the Wi-Fi menu. When you're connected to the network, your phone Xiaomi already possess information about the access key. The system generates a special encrypted code that contains the network's SSID and the password in clear text (for those who can read it). This method works on most modern models, including Redmi Note and flagship series Mi.
First, you need to go to the wireless network settings. Find the section Settings → Wi-Fi (or Connections and Sharing in new versions HyperOS). In the list of available networks, find the one you're currently connected to—it will be marked with an icon or color. Click the arrow to the right of the network name or the icon itself to expand the details.
On the screen that opens, you'll see a "Share" button or a QR code icon. Once clicked, the system will ask you to verify your identity using Face ID, fingerprint, or pattern. This is a security measure to prevent password theft if the phone falls into the wrong hands. After successful authentication, a QR code will appear on the screen.
⚠️ Attention: On some global firmware versions, the password may not be displayed as text under the QR code, but hidden behind asterisks. In this case, the code itself will still work, but you won't be able to see the key.
If the password text is visible immediately (usually under the square), you can simply rewrite it or copy it by tapping the corresponding copy icon. If the text is hidden, use a second smartphone with a camera and code scanning functionality. Point the second device's camera at the first device's screen. A connection string will appear in a notification or pop-up window, followed by the symbol ; or P: will be the one we are looking for access key.
Viewing via the settings menu and clipboard
In updated interfaces Xiaomi The process has become even more intuitive. The developers have added the ability to instantly copy data directly from the network card. This is especially convenient when you need to quickly transfer access to another person via messenger without taking unnecessary screenshots. The mechanics here are tied to the system clipboard and integration with services Google.
After you've opened the QR code, look at the bottom of the screen. There's often a text line there that says "Password:" " or the "Tap to see password" button. Depending on the version Android (12, 13, or 14), system behavior may vary slightly. In some cases, you may need to click the "eye" icon to unmask the characters.
An alternative is via the "More" menu or a triple-tap. Try tapping and holding the active network name in the main Wi-Fi list. The context menu that appears may include an option called "Share" or "QR code." Tapping it will also take you to a code generation screen. It's important to understand that your phone must be unlocked.
- 🔑 Open
Settingsand go to the sectionWi-Fi. - 📱 Click on the active network or the arrow next to its name.
- 👁️ Look for the "Show Password" button or the eye icon.
- 📋 Copy the text or scan the QR code with a second device.
It is worth noting that on older versions MIUI, based on Android 9 For devices older than 2020, this functionality may not be explicitly available. In such cases, the system relies on third-party apps or requires more extensive intervention. However, if you have a device released after 2020, the chances of this feature being present are 99%.
Using Google Lens and screenshots
If in your interface Xiaomi The password is hidden behind asterisks and is not displayed in text even after clicking the "Share" button. Optical character recognition technology will come to the rescue. Google Lens (Lens) is a powerful tool built into most Android smartphones that can "read" QR codes and convert them into text data.
The process is simple and doesn't require installing any additional apps if you have Google services. First, take a screenshot of the QR code displayed in the Wi-Fi menu. This is usually done using a combination of buttons. Volume Down + Power or swipe with three fingers on the screen (if the function is enabled in the settings) More → Screenshots).
Once the image is saved, open the app Google or Google PhotosFind the screenshot you took and tap the "Lens" button (the camera icon). The system will analyze the image, highlight the QR code, and offer the option to "Connect to Wi-Fi" or simply display a text string. In the text version, you'll see something like: WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:MySecretPassword;;Your target is the symbols after P: and before ;;.
⚠️ Attention: Make sure the QR code is clearly visible in the screenshot, without any glare or shadows. If the code is unreadable, try increasing your screen brightness before taking the screenshot or use the "Crop" feature in your photo editor to capture only the square.
This method is universal and works even on those versions MIUI, where the developers "forgot" to add a password copy button. It converts the graphic image into machine-readable text. Additionally, with Google Lens, you can often immediately tap the "Connect" button, and the phone will automatically enter the password, eliminating the need to manually enter complex characters.
☑️ Google Lens Action Algorithm
Advanced Method: ADB Console Without Root
For users who are not afraid of the computer and the command line, there is a way to extract the password directly from the system configuration file using USB debugging (ADBThis method doesn't require root access, but it does require a PC and a cable. It's ideal for situations where the phone's interface is damaged or doesn't display the password correctly.
First you need to enable developer mode on your XiaomiGo to . Settings → About phone and quickly tap 7-10 times on the "MIUI Version" (or "OS Version") field until the "You are now a developer" message appears. Then go to Settings → Advanced settings → For developers and turn on the "USB debugging" toggle switch.
Connect your phone to your computer using a cable. The PC must have ADB drivers installed. Open a command prompt (CMD) or PowerShell in the ADB folder and enter the following command to test the connection:
adb devicesA debugging permission request will appear on your phone screen - click "OK". Once connected successfully, enter the command to read the Wi-Fi configuration file (the path may vary depending on the Android version, but most often it is /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore.xml or .conf). However, without root access, direct access to this file is blocked. However, there is a workaround through backup or using special ADB scripts that extract data from the protected area.
- 💻 Connect your phone to your PC and enable debugging.
- ⌨️ Enter the command
adb shell bmgr backup com.android.wifi --list(does not work on all versions). - 📂 Or use the command
adb pull /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore.xml(only with Root). - 🔍 Look for the tag in the resulting file
<PreSharedKey>.
If direct file access is prohibited (which is likely on Android 11+ without root), you can try using backup commands for specific apps, but this requires a high level of skill. A simpler option with ADB is to emulate keystrokes if you simply want to transmit the password but not see it. However, for the task of "seeing the password," ADB without root is becoming increasingly ineffective on newer Android devices due to increased security sandboxes.
What to do if ADB doesn't see the device?
Make sure the Xiaomi and Google USB Drivers are installed on your PC. Try a different USB cable (preferably the original) and a different USB port. Also, check that "File Transfer (MTP)" mode is selected in the phone's notification bar.
System Files and Root Privileges (for Experts)
If your Xiaomi has an unlocked bootloader and installed Root rights (for example, via Magisk), then obtaining the password becomes a trivial task. You gain full control over the file system and can read any configuration files. This gives you access to the history of all networks ever connected, even those forgotten by the system.
You will need a file manager with Root support, for example, Root Explorer, MT Manager or Solid ExplorerAfter granting superuser rights, go to the following path:
/data/misc/wifi/In this directory you will be interested in the file WifiConfigStore.xml (on new Androids) or wpa_supplicant.conf (On older Android versions, up to version 10). Open this file as text (Text Viewer). Inside, you'll find an XML structure or configuration files, where each network is described by a tag block.
Search for tags <SSID> for the network name and <PreSharedKey> for the password. The password will be stored in clear text. For example:
<string name="PreSharedKey">super_secret_password_123</string>⚠️ Attention: Rooting your device will void your warranty. Xiaomi and may result in the failure of banking applications (NFC payments, banking) due to a breach in the security system. Use this method only if you fully understand the risks.
After reviewing the information, it is highly recommended to close the file and avoid making any manual changes, as a syntax error could prevent your phone from connecting to Wi-Fi altogether. Also, remember that root access makes the entire phone vulnerable: any malicious app could theoretically read these files without your knowledge.
Android Method and Version Compatibility Chart
The effectiveness of these methods directly depends on the operating system and shell version. Below is a summary table to help you determine which method will be most effective for your model. Xiaomi.
| Android / MIUI version | QR code in settings | Password text immediately | ADB without root | Root access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Android 9 / MIUI 10-11 | No / Third-party applications | No | Difficult | Works perfectly |
| Android 10 / MIUI 12 | Yes (often without text) | Rarely | Limited | Works perfectly |
| Android 11-12 / MIUI 13-14 | Yes (standard) | Often there is | Almost impossible | It works (the path may change) |
| Android 13-14 / HyperOS | Yes (improved) | Yes (copying) | Blocked | Requires complex manipulations |
As you can see from the table, owners of modern devices are the luckiest: they don't need to delve into the depths of system files. The built-in tools are sufficient. However, if you have an older but beloved device Redmi, you may have to resort to Root or third-party utilities, which, however, work more stably on older versions of Android.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if the phone is not currently connected to this network?
Yes, if your phone has previously connected to this network and saved it. In the Wi-Fi settings, tap "Add network" or look for saved networks (some MIUI versions have a "Saved networks" list in the three-dot menu). If the network is listed, you can try generating a QR code for it, even without an active connection.
Why doesn't Google Lens show the password after scanning a QR code?
The QR code may be in a format that Google Lens interprets as a connection command rather than as text. Try using a different QR code scanner from the Play Market that can display "Raw data." In the data line, look for the fragment after P:.
Is it safe to use WiFi Password Viewer apps from Play Market?
On modern versions of Android (10+), such apps without root access are often useless, as the system blocks access to the password vault. Furthermore, they may request excessive permissions. It's better to use the standard QR code method, which is secure and built into the system.
What should I do if the Share button in Xiaomi settings is inactive?
Make sure Wi-Fi is enabled. If the issue persists, try restarting your phone. In rare cases, custom firmware may limit this functionality; in such cases, resetting network settings or using root may be the only solution.