A situation where you need to get access to Wi-Fi networks, but the password is lost or forgotten, is quite common. Smartphone users Xiaomi, Redmi And Poco People often wonder if it's technically possible to view saved data on a device in order to connect another device or laptop to the internet. It's important to clarify: Accessing someone else's Wi-Fi network without the owner's permission is a violation of computer information laws.This article discusses exclusively legal methods for recovering passwords for networks you administer or to which you were previously granted access.
Modern operating systems, including Android with shell MIUI or HyperOSWireless routers have built-in security mechanisms that hide passwords in plaintext. However, there are built-in methods for extracting this information if the device has already connected to the access point. We'll cover the technical aspects of wireless modules, how to generate QR codes for quickly connecting guests, and how to reset the router if access to the admin panel is lost. This knowledge will help you manage your home network efficiently and securely.
Technical limitations and ethics of Wi-Fi use
Before proceeding with the instructions, it is necessary to understand the architecture of wireless network security. Encryption protocols WPA2 And WPA3, used by default in most routers, provide reliable protection of transmitted data. Smartphone Xiaomi, like any other device, stores access keys in a secure system partition. For the average user who doesn't have Root rights (superuser rights), direct access to this file is blocked. This is done to prevent malware from stealing your network credentials.
Attempts to hack your neighbor's Wi-Fi using brute-force apps are not only ineffective against modern routers but can also infect your own phone with viruses. Many programs that promise to "get your neighbor's password" are actually tools for stealing your own personal data. Therefore, the only reliable solution if your data is lost is to work on your own equipment or contact the network owner.
⚠️ Warning: Using programs to hack other people's Wi-Fi networks (such as Wi-Fi Master Key or similar programs) may result in your IP address being blocked by your ISP or legal consequences. Work only with your own networks.
If you are a home network administrator but have forgotten the password you once entered on your phone, the situation can be resolved using the system's built-in tools. Xiaomi provides convenient tools for access sharing. However, if you need to find out the password for a network you've never connected to, technically, this is only possible through brute-force attacks (which take years for complex passwords) or through physical access to the router. We'll focus on legal and quick methods for restoring access.
Viewing a password via QR code on MIUI and HyperOS
The easiest and fastest way to find out your phone's Wi-Fi password Xiaomi — this is using the "Share" feature. This method works if your device is already connected to the network or has been connected previously and saved the profile. Shell MIUI Generates a special QR code containing an encrypted string of authorization data. In some firmware versions, the password is displayed directly below the code; in others, it must be scanned using another smartphone.
First, you need to go to your wireless network settings. The path may vary slightly depending on your version. Android, but the logic remains the same. You need to find an active connection and initiate the data exchange. The system will automatically generate a pattern that can be scanned with the camera of any other device.
- 📱 Open
Settingsand go to the sectionWi-Fi. - 🔗 Click on the name of the network you are connected to, or on the arrow/gear icon next to it.
- 📷 Select an option "Share"** or icon QR code.
- 👁️ If the password is not written in text under the image, take a screenshot.
If the password text is not displayed explicitly (which is often the case for security reasons on newer versions HyperOS), you'll need a second phone or a QR code scanner app. Point the other device's camera at the screen with the code. Once recognized, a link like this will appear in the status bar or notification: WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:SuperSecret123;;Symbols after P: and before ;; - this is the password you are looking for.
Using the Mi Router app to manage your network
For owners of routers of this brand Xiaomi or Redmi luckier, because there is an official app for them Mi Router (or Mi Wi-Fi). This tool allows you to not only view connected devices but also manage security settings, including changing your password. If you've previously linked the router to an account Mi Account, restoring access will take a couple of minutes.
The app functions as a remote control. It connects to the router via a cloud service or a local network. Even if you're away from home, as long as the router is connected to the internet, you can change the security key. After changing the password in the app, you'll need to reconnect all your devices using the new credentials.
☑️ Setting up Mi Router
It's important to note that your router must be compatible for the app to work. The list of supported models is extensive, but older devices may not have full functionality. Look for the section in the app interface Wi-Fi settingsYour current network settings will be displayed there. If you change your password, be sure to write it down in a safe place or use a password manager.
| Function | Access without Root | Required software | Complexity |
|---|---|---|---|
| QR code (MIUI) | Yes | Not required | Low |
| Mi Router App | Yes (for Xiaomi routers) | Mi Router | Low |
| Router web interface | Yes | Browser | Average |
| wpa_supplicant file | No (Root required) | Root rights, explorer | High |
Restoring access via the router's web interface
A universal method that is suitable for any router (not only Xiaomi, but also TP-Link, Asus, Keenetic), is the login to the control panel via a browser. To do this, use your phone Xiaomi must be connected to the router's network (even if there is no internet, the local connection should work). If you don't remember the Wi-Fi password but have physical access to the router, you can connect your phone via OTG cable to the LAN port (if supported) or use a temporary cable connection if your phone has an appropriate adapter.
However, most often, a password is needed to access settings. If you are connected, open a browser (Chrome, Mi Browser) and enter the gateway IP address in the address bar. This is usually 192.168.0.1, 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.31.1 (for Xiaomi). The address can also be found in the app. Settings → Wi-Fi → Details (line "Gateway" or "Router").
After entering the address, the system will ask for the administrator login and password. These are often the same as your Wi-Fi credentials if you haven't changed them, or are the default (admin/admin) listed on the sticker on the bottom of the router. Once inside, go to the section Wireless or Wi-Fi SettingsThere in the field PSK Password or Key The current password will be displayed. You can copy it or change it to a more convenient one.
⚠️ Note: Router interfaces are constantly being updated. If you can't find the item you need, check the official manual for your router model on the manufacturer's website. The menu location may vary depending on the firmware version.
What to do if the IP address does not open?
Make sure mobile data (4G/5G) is disabled on your phone, as it may interfere with the local request. Also, check if you're using a VPN that routes traffic through external servers.
Resetting your router as a last resort
If none of the above methods helped (you are not connected to the network, you don’t remember the password for the admin panel, the QR code is unreadable), there remains a radical but effective method - Hard ResetThis action will reset the router to factory settings. All changes, including the network name, Wi-Fi password, and provider settings, will be deleted.
To perform a reset, find a small hole with the inscription on the router body Reset or RestoreTake a paperclip or toothpick, press the button inside the hole, and hold it for about 10-15 seconds until the lights on the front panel flash simultaneously. After rebooting, the router will create an open network with the name indicated on the sticker (usually Xiaomi_XXXX or TP-Link_XXXX).
After the reset, you'll need to reconfigure your internet. Connect to an open network from your phone. XiaomiTypically, your browser will automatically redirect you to the quick setup page. You'll need to enter your provider information (the login and password from your contract) and set a new Wi-Fi password. Write it down immediately so you don't forget it.
- 🔌 Find the button Reset on the back panel of the router.
- ⏱️ Press it with a paper clip for 10-15 seconds until the indicators reset.
- 📡 Find the new open Wi-Fi network in the list of available ones.
- ⚙️ Complete the initial setup process through your browser.
Frequently asked questions and connection problems
When recovering passwords, users often encounter technical nuances that can be confusing. For example, the phone may keep displaying "Obtaining IP address..." even if the password is entered correctly. This could indicate an IP address conflict or the router's DHCP pool has reached its limit of connected devices. In such cases, rebooting the router can help.
Another common problem is incompatibility of encryption standards. If the router is configured only for WPA3, and the phone Xiaomi old model only supports WPA2, connection will be impossible. In this case, you need to select mixed mode in the router settings. WPA2/WPA3 or forced WPA2-PSK.
Also worth mentioning is the feature WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup). It allows you to connect without entering a password by pressing a button on the router. However, on modern devices Xiaomi This feature is often hidden or removed for security reasons, as the WPS protocol is considered vulnerable. It's best not to rely on it; QR codes are better.
Is it possible to find out a neighbor's Wi-Fi password using special apps?
No, there are no legitimate apps that magically hack someone else's Wi-Fi. Apps that claim to do so either reveal passwords to open networks (which are already visible) or are fraudulent. The only way to do this is to obtain the password from your neighbor.
Why doesn't the password text appear under the QR code on Xiaomi?
In new versions MIUI 13/14 And HyperOS Google and Xiaomi have strengthened their privacy policies. Now, passwords are hidden behind asterisks or not displayed at all, preventing anyone looking over your shoulder from discovering your passcode. Use a QR code scanner on a second device to decrypt your password.
Where can I find the Wi-Fi password file on Android?
Passwords are stored in a system file /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.confThis folder can only be accessed with Root rights (superuser rights). Without root access, the system won't even allow you to read this file.
What should I do if my Xiaomi router won't connect to Mi Home/Mi Router?
Make sure the region is in the app Mi Home Matches the router's region. If the router is a Chinese version and the app is set to "Russia," they may not be able to see each other. Try changing the region in the app settings or using the web interface.