The situation of needing to connect a new device to a wireless network, but long forgotten or written down on a piece of paper that can't be found, is familiar to many smartphone owners. This issue is especially acute for users of the ecosystem. Xiaomi, where is the interface MIUI has its own peculiarities of storing network data. Fortunately, in modern versions of the operating system Android, on which the shell of yours is based Redmi 9, there are built-in mechanisms for viewing saved access keys.
Unlike older software versions, which required complex steps to gain superuser privileges, today's process is significantly simplified. The system automatically encrypts data but provides a legal way to view it through the standard settings menu. This allows for quick access resolution without having to reset the router or negotiate a contract with the provider.
Let's take a detailed look at the steps required to extract the information you need directly from your device's screen. We'll cover standard methods, working with QR codes, and alternative options in case the standard method is unavailable for any reason.
Using the standard MIUI settings menu
The easiest and most secure way to save a key is to use the system's built-in functionality. Starting with certain versions MIUI, engineers Xiaomi We've implemented the ability to view passwords for networks to which your device is currently connected or has previously connected. To get started, open the main menu and find the icon Settings.
Next, you should go to the section Wi-FiHere you'll see a list of available networks and your current connection. If you're in range of a network whose password you need to find out, simply click the arrow to the right of the network name or the information icon. (i)The window that opens often displays a QR code for quickly connecting other devices.
However, to view the text password itself, additional authorization may be required. Security system Android will request verification of the owner's identity. This could be by entering a pattern, a PIN code, or scanning a fingerprint through the fingerprint sensor built into the power button or screen. Redmi 9.
After successful verification, a text line labeled "Password" may appear below or next to the QR code. If the text is hidden by asterisks, try tapping the eye icon. 👁️In some MIUI builds, the text appears immediately after unlocking the Wi-Fi settings menu.
⚠️ Attention: If the password isn't displayed after clicking the eye icon, this may mean your firmware version has security restrictions or requires additional permissions to view the text value. In this case, proceed to the next section.
Methods via QR code
In cases where the direct text output of the password is hidden by the shell developers, the QR code generation function comes to the rescue. This method is universal for most devices based on Android 10 and above, including Redmi 9The essence of the method is that the code itself contains an encrypted connection string that can be decoded.
First, follow the steps described in the previous section: go to Settings → Wi-Fi and click on the desired network. A card with a QR code will open. Without closing this window, take a screenshot to save the code image to your gallery. This file is now ready for analysis.
To decode the image, you can use any third-party QR code scanner or even the built-in scanner in the Camera app of another smartphone. Point the second device's camera at the saved screenshot. The scan results often display a string in the following format: WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:MyPassword;;.
- 📱 S: indicates the name of the network (SSID) you are connected to.
- 🔒 T: indicates the encryption type, in this case it is WPA or WPA2.
- 🔑 P: This is the password you are looking for, which follows this symbol until the next semicolon.
This approach allows you to bypass the visual concealment of your password in the interface. You don't need special apps with deep access rights; the standard camera functionality or a lightweight scanner from Google Play.
Verification via Google Account and Sync
Ecosystem Google offers a powerful password management tool that syncs across all devices linked to a single account. If your Xiaomi Redmi 9 Synchronization is enabled, saved Wi-Fi keys can be accessed via the cloud service.
To check, open the menu Settings and find the section Google. Next, select the item Autofill and go to Google AutocompleteIn the list that opens, select Google PasswordsThis is where all saved credentials are stored, including wireless network keys.
Find your network's name in the list. When you tap it, the system will again ask for identification (fingerprint, face, or PIN). After logging in, you'll see your login and password field, which you can expand by tapping the eye icon. This method is especially convenient if your phone is unavailable and you need to retrieve the password from your computer.
This data can also be accessed through a browser. Chrome On your PC, go to your browser settings, select "Passwords," and find the saved network. This confirms that the data is stored encrypted on the company's servers and is accessible to the account owner at any time.
⚠️ Attention: For this method to work, password syncing must be enabled in your Google account when you connect to the internet. If syncing is disabled, your data may not be saved to the cloud.
Using third-party applications
If the built-in tools fail, you can use specialized software from the app store. However, it's important to understand the difference between programs that simply display passwords already stored in the system (requiring root access) and those that attempt to brute-force the keys (often useless).
For devices without root access, apps that can read system configuration files or use the system API to export data are effective. Various Wi-Fi managers are an example. They request permission to display on top of other windows or access settings.
Popular utilities often include a network backup feature. When exporting a configuration to a file (such as XML or TXT), passwords can be saved in cleartext. This allows you to open the file with any text editor and find the required line.
- 🛠️ WiFi Map: A popular app that displays hotspots but also has connection management features.
- 📡 Instabridge: Allows you to share passwords and manage your saved networks, sometimes displaying the keys in your profile details.
- 📂 File Manager: Some advanced file managers allow you to view system configuration files without root, if your Android version allows it.
Be careful when installing such software. Many free apps are cluttered with ads or may request excessive permissions. Always check the developer's rating and user reviews before installing.
Risks of using third-party software
Installing apps from untrusted sources can lead to data leaks. Try to use only trusted apps from Google Play with high ratings and a large number of downloads.
Table: Comparison of recovery methods
To help you choose the optimal solution, let's organize the options we've considered. The table below compares the methods based on key parameters: complexity, need for additional devices, and access rights requirements.
| Method | Root is required | Need a second phone | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| MIUI settings menu | No | No | Low |
| QR code + Scanner | No | Desirable | Average |
| Google Account | No | No (PC required) | Low |
| Third-party applications | Often yes | No | High |
As the table shows, the most accessible methods are those using the system's built-in functionality and cloud services. They don't require extensive technical knowledge and are safe for the device.
Using third-party programs is only justified if the standard paths are blocked or not working correctly. In most cases, the owner Redmi 9 the functionality provided out of the box will be sufficient.
☑️ Check before recovery
Restoring access via a router
If none of the mobile methods work, there's always the "hardware" option—receiving data directly from the signal source. This method requires physical access to the router or access to its web interface.
Look at the sticker on the bottom or back of your router. The factory Wi-Fi password (Wireless Password / WPA Key) is often listed there. If you've never changed your security settings, this key will be valid.
If the password has been changed, but you know the login information for the router settings (administrator login and password), you can connect to the device via cable or Wi-Fi (if available) and access the control panel. The address typically looks like this: 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.
In the router interface (TP-Link, D-Link, ASUS, Keenetic) you need to find the section Wireless or Wi-Fi → Wireless SecurityThere in the field PSK Password or WPA Pre-Shared Key The current password will be displayed. You can copy it or change it to something more memorable.
⚠️ Attention: Router interfaces may vary depending on the model and firmware version. If you're unsure about your router settings, it's best not to change them; instead, simply view the current values to avoid disrupting your network.
This method is the most reliable, as it allows you not only to find out but also to change the password if the old one is completely lost. After changing the password on the router, it will be changed on all devices, including Xiaomi, you will need to reconnect with a new key.
What should I do if my phone says "Saved" but won't connect?
If Redmi 9 The network is saved, but the connection fails. The problem may not be with the password, but with the router settings (MAC address filtering) or channel congestion. Try forgetting the network (Delete network) and re-enter the password manually, carefully checking the letter case.
Is it possible to find out a Wi-Fi password without connecting to it?
No, it's impossible to find out the password to someone else's closed network without first connecting to or accessing the router. All apps that promise to "hack" a neighboring router's Wi-Fi are either scams or use password databases that users themselves have previously saved and uploaded to the cloud.
Where is the password file physically located on Android?
In the Android system, passwords are stored in a system file wpa_supplicant.confHowever, only a user with superuser (root) rights can access this file. Without these rights, it's impossible to read the file through the file manager, so the interface workarounds described above are used.
Is it safe to scan QR codes from unknown sources?
The Wi-Fi QR code itself is secure; it only contains a connection string. However, be wary of codes that link to websites or prompt you to download apps. Always check the action preview before confirming the scan.