Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you need to connect a new gadget to your home Wi-Fi network, but you've long forgotten the password and the router is inaccessible? Or a friend asks you to share your network password, but you can't remember it? On an Android smartphone already connected to the network, the password is stored in encrypted form—but there are several ways to retrieve it.
In this article we will look at all current methodsHow to find out the password for the current Wi-Fi on Android: from standard settings (available on some firmware) to using technical tools like ADB or a file manager with rights rootImportant: Not all methods are universal - their functionality depends on the version Android, smartphone manufacturer (Samsung, Xiaomi, Google Pixel etc.) and the presence of superuser rights. We will also warn you about security risks and we'll explain why some methods may stop working after system updates.
If you're looking for a way to hack someone else's network, be warned: this is illegally and technically difficult (modern networks are protected by protocols WPA3). Our article is only for extracting password from his own network to which your smartphone is already connected.
1. Standard method: view the password in Wi-Fi settings (Android 10+)
Starting from Android 10, Google Added the ability to view passwords for saved networks directly in the settings—but only if the smartphone isn't locked with a pattern or PIN. This method works on a clean device. Android (For example, Google Pixel, Nokia, Motorola) and some firmware from manufacturers. On devices Samsung, Xiaomi or Huawei This method can be disabled.
Instructions:
- 📱 Open
Settings→Network and Internet(orConnectionson Samsung). - 🔗 Choose
Wi-Fi, then tap on the name of the current network (it is marked asConnected). - 🔑 Click the button
Share(orSharein the English-language firmware). - 🔐 The system will ask you to confirm your identity: enter your PIN, pattern, or scan your fingerprint.
- 📋 Under the inscription
PasswordA line with a dot will appear - click on the eye (👁️) to see the password.
⚠️ Attention: On Xiaomi (MIUI) and Samsung (One UI) This method often doesn't work—instead of a password, you'll see a QR code for connecting other devices. In this case, proceed to the next methods.
If you have Android 9 or an older version, this method won't work—manufacturers hid passwords for security reasons. In such cases, you'll need alternative solutions, which we'll discuss below.
2. Using QR code to extract password (without root)
Many modern smartphones allow generate a QR code to connect to Wi-Fi instead of manually entering the password. This QR code contains encrypted network data, including the password, and can be decrypted using third-party apps. This method even works on Samsung And Xiaomi, where direct password viewing is blocked.
Steps:
- Generate a QR code:
- 📱 Go to
Settings → Wi-Fi. - 🔗 Tap on the current network →
Share(orQR codeon Xiaomi). - 🖼️ Take a screenshot of the QR code (or take a photo of it with another device).
- 📱 Go to
- 📱 Install the application QR & Barcode Scanner (from Gamma Play) or WiFi Password QR Generator.
- 🔍 Scan the saved QR code using the app.
- 🔑 In the scan results, find the line
WPA:...orPassword:— this is your Wi-Fi password.
Example of QR code content (decoding):
WIFI:T:WPA;S:MyWiFiNetwork;P:my_secret_password;;Here P:my_secret_password — this is the network password.
⚠️ Attention: Some QR code scanning apps may save scan history. Delete unnecessary entries to avoid compromising network security.
3. View password via configuration file (requires root or ADB)
On Android Wi-Fi passwords are stored in an encrypted file wpa_supplicant.conf, located along the way /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStoreTo read it, you need root rights or access via ADB (Android Debug Bridge). This method is suitable for technically savvy users.
Method 1: Using a file manager with root access
- 📱 Install a file manager with root support, for example Root Explorer or FX File Explorer.
- 🔍 Follow the path
/data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore. - 📄 Open the file
wpa_supplicant.confin a text editor. - 🔑 Find the block with the name of your network (
ssid="...") - there will be a line next to itpsk="..."with a password.
Method 2: Via ADB (without root, but with USB debugging)
If you don't have root but it is enabled USB debugging, you can extract the file via ADB:
adb pull /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore/wpa_supplicant.confThen open the downloaded file on your computer. Please note: on newer versions Android (11+) This path may be changed and access is restricted.
| Android version | Path to the password file | Root required? |
|---|---|---|
| Android 9 and later | /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore |
Yes |
| Android 8–8.1 | /data/misc/wifi/WPA_SUPPLICANT |
Yes |
| Android 7 and below | /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf |
No (sometimes) |
⚠️ Attention: Modifying or deleting files in /data/misc/wifi/ may lead to loss of all saved networks on your device. Make backups!
What to do if the wpa_supplicant.conf file is encrypted?
Starting with Android 10, some manufacturers (like Samsung) encrypt this file. In this case, it cannot be read without additional tools such as Magisk or specialized scripts. Alternatively, use the ADB command method:
adb shell su -c "cat /data/misc/wifi/WifiConfigStore/* | grep psk"But this requires root rights.
4. Apps for viewing Wi-Fi passwords (with and without root)
IN Google Play There are apps that make password extraction easier. We've tested several and selected the ones that actually work (as of 2026). Important: most of them require root rights, and "free" versions often contain ads or limitations.
Top 3 applications:
- 🔓 WiFi Password Viewer (from SimoneDev) - shows passwords for all saved networks. Works on Android 5–12, but requires root.
- 📡 WiFi Key Recovery - supports Android 10+, can extract passwords via ADB (without root, but USB debugging is required).
- 🔑 WiFi Password (from Anttek) - simple interface, works on Samsung And Xiaomi with root.
How to use (using WiFi Password Viewer as an example):
- 📱 Install the app and grant root access (if requested).
- 🔍 A list of all saved networks will appear in the main window.
- 🔑 Tap on the desired network - the password will be displayed in the field
Password. - 📋 Copy the password or share it using the button
Share.
⚠️ Attention: Do not install "Wi-Fi hacking" apps from untrusted sources - they may contain viruses or spywareThe apps on our list have been verified, but always read reviews before installing.
Check your Android version (Settings → About phone)
Enable USB debugging (Settings → Developer options)
Install Magisk (if root is required)
Download the app only from Google Play
Please back up your data-->
5. Extracting a password from a backup (without root)
If your smartphone is enabled automatic backup V Google Drive, you can try extracting the password from a backup. This method doesn't require root, but it doesn't work on all devices. Important: a backup must be created. to resetting the settings or updating the system.
Instructions:
- 📱 Go to
Settings → Google → Backup. - 🔄 Make sure backup is enabled and the latest backup was created recently.
- 💻 Open it on your computer Google Drive and find the folder
Backup(it's hidden - use search). - 📁 There will be a file with the extension inside
.ab(Android Backup). It can be opened using the tool Android Backup Extractor (required) Java). - 🔑 Find the file in the extracted data
wpa_supplicant.conf- it contains passwords.
Alternative: If you have old smartphone, which previously connected to this network, try extracting the password from it - sometimes this is easier than messing around with backups.
⚠️ Attention: Backup files .ab encrypted. To decrypt them, you need a password generated based on your account information. Google. Use only proven tools like Android Backup Extractor.
6. Alternative methods: router, label, provider
If none of the software methods worked, remember about physical methods Obtaining a password. This is often faster and more secure than digging through your smartphone's settings.
Where else can you find the password:
- 📋 Label on the router: Most providers provide a standard password on a sticker underneath the device (field
Wi-Fi PasswordorNetwork Key). - 🖥️ Router web interface:
- Connect to the router via cable or current Wi-Fi.
- Open the address in your browser
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1(check your router instructions). - Enter login/password (usually
admin/adminor indicated on the label). - Go to the section
WirelessorWi-Fi→Security— there will be a field with a password.
Reset on the router (hold for 10 seconds) - the network will be reset to factory settings, and the password will become the default (indicated on the label).On some routers (for example, TP-Link or ASUS) You can change your password directly from the manufacturer's mobile app—it's easier than accessing the web interface.
Common mistakes and how to avoid them
When trying to find a Wi-Fi password on Android, users often encounter common problems. Here are the most common errors and their solutions:
| Problem | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| There is no "Share" button in the Wi-Fi settings. | The manufacturer has blocked the function (for example, on Xiaomi or Samsung) | Use a QR code or rooted apps |
ADB doesn't see the file. wpa_supplicant.conf |
On newer versions of Android, access is limited. | Try rooting or use a backup |
| The app shows an empty list of networks. | No root access or outdated Android version | Please update your app or use another method. |
| The QR code does not contain a password | Some routers use proprietary QR formats | Try a different scanning app. |
Another common mistake is trying to use Universal Wi-Fi hacking software (like Wifi WPS WPA Tester). These applications do not work on modern networks with WPA3 and often contain malicious code. Don't waste your time on them.
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
❓ Is it possible to find out a Wi-Fi password without rooting?
Yes, but the choice of methods is limited:
- On Android 10+ Try standard view in settings.
- Use QR code or backup copy.
- Connect to the router's web interface.
Without root you won't be able to read the file. wpa_supplicant.conf directly.
❓ Why isn't my password showing up in the settings on my Samsung?
Samsung (One UI) and Xiaomi (MIUI) purposefully blocks password viewing for security reasons. Instead of a text password, they display a QR code. To view the actual password, use:
- QR code scanner with decoding function.
- Apps like WiFi Password Viewer (requires root).
- Router web interface.
❓ Is it possible to find out the password for someone else's network I'm connected to?
Technically, yes, if your device is connected to that network. But:
- ⚠️ This is against the law. (Article 272 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation - unauthorized access to computer information).
- Modern networks with
WPA3And802.1X(corporate) are protected from such methods. - The network owner can track your device by its MAC address.
We strongly advise against this. This article is intended only for extracting the password from his own networks.
❓ What to do if none of the methods worked?
If you have exhausted all software methods, the following remain:
- Physical access to the router (reset or viewing the label).
- Contact your provider (if the router is theirs).
- Connecting to the network via
WPS(if the function is enabled on the router).
If the router is yours, but you don’t remember the login details for the web interface, perform a reset (button Reset) - this will restore factory settings, including the default Wi-Fi password.
❓ Is it safe to use password viewer apps?
Security depends on the source of the application:
- ✅ Applications from Google Play with a high rating and a large number of downloads (for example, WiFi Password Viewer) are usually safe.
- ❌ Applications from third-party sources (APK files) may contain viruses or spyware.
- ⚠️ Even secure apps require root or special permissions—this is a potential risk if the device is used to work with sensitive data.
Before installing, read reviews and check the permissions the app requests.