The situation where you urgently need to connect a new device to the network, but have forgotten the password for your current access point, is one of the most common problems in the world of mobile technology. Owners of smartphones based on Android They often find themselves in a vicious circle: the phone is already connected to Wi-Fi, but the system hides the security symbols, preventing them from being copied or even viewed. This is done by developers for security reasons, to prevent attackers or malware from easily extracting stored access keys.
However, modern versions of the operating system offer built-in mechanisms for legitimate access to this data, although their implementation heavily depends on the firmware version and model of your device. Previously, such an operation required superuser rights or Root, then in many cases you can get by with standard interface tools. Understanding where exactly in the system the data is stored network credentials, will help you quickly restore internet access to your laptop or tablet.
In this article, we'll cover in detail all the current methods for obtaining a WiFi hotspot password on Android, from the built-in features of Android 10 and newer to more complex methods for older OS versions. We'll cover the nuances of working with QR codes, file managers, and system settings so you can choose the most appropriate solution for your situation.
Using the QR code feature on modern versions of Android
Since version Android 10Google has implemented a native QR code generation feature for quickly connecting guests. This method is the simplest and most secure, as it doesn't require installing third-party software or obtaining extended system access rights. However, it's worth keeping in mind that the interface may visually differ depending on the manufacturer's shell, whether it's MIUI, One UI or pure Android.
First, you need to navigate to the wireless network settings section. Typically, the path looks like this: Settings → Wi-Fi (or "Connections"). Here you'll see a list of available networks and the one you're currently connected to. Click the gear icon or arrow next to the active network's name to open its detailed settings.
In the menu that opens, find the "Share" button or the QR code icon. The system may require identification via a fingerprint scanner, pattern, or Face IDAfter successful authentication, a square code will appear on the screen. On some operating systems, such as stock Android, the password may be written in plain text directly below the code. If there is no text, the code will need to be scanned with another device.
⚠️ Attention: Don't take screenshots of QR codes containing passwords or send them via messaging apps. Anyone with access to the image will be able to connect to your network, as the code contains all the necessary information in clear text.
If the password isn't displayed in plain text, you'll need a second smartphone with a camera and QR code scanning capabilities (usually built into the Camera app or Google Lens). Point the camera at the code, and a network connection notification will appear on the screen. This notification often contains a password string that you can copy. This method is universal for most modern devices.
It is important to note that on some models, for example from the company Xiaomi or HuaweiThe algorithm may differ slightly. In such cases, the system may prompt you to send the code to yourself via messenger and then open it on another device for reading. It's important not to delete the network profile on the primary device during the process.
Viewing the password through the router settings from your phone
If the standard QR code method is unavailable for some reason or doesn't display text information, you can use an alternative method: the router's web interface. A smartphone connected to Wi-Fi is effectively already within the local network, giving you direct access to the router's admin panel without the need for a computer.
First, find out the gateway IP address. Go to your phone's Wi-Fi settings, tap on the active connection, and look for the "Gateway," "Router," or "Router" field. This is usually the address 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1Open any browser (Chrome, Firefox, Samsung Internet) and enter this IP in the address bar.
You'll be taken to the router's authorization page. You'll need your administrator login and password. By default, these are often listed on a sticker on the bottom of the device (usually admin/admin). If you've changed these details before and don't remember them, this method won't work without resetting the router.
Once you enter the interface, navigation will depend on the model of your equipment (TP-Link, Asus, Keenetic etc.). You need to find the section related to wireless mode. Look for tabs named "Wireless," "Wireless Network," "Wi-Fi," or "WLAN." Inside, there will be a subsection called "Security," where in the field WPA/WPA2 Key or "Passphrase" and the desired key is stored.
| Router manufacturer | Typical login address | Settings section | Password field name |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Wireless → Wireless Security | Password / PSK Password |
| Asus | 192.168.1.1 | Wireless Network → General | Authentication Method / WPA Key |
| Keenetic | 192.168.1.1 | My Networks and Wi-Fi → Home Network | Password |
| D-Link | 192.168.0.1 | Wi-Fi → Security Settings | PSK encryption key |
Please note that firmware interfaces are subject to update, and the layout of menu items may change. If you can't find the field you need, use the browser's search function (if available in the mobile interface) or refer to the manual for your specific router model.
Finding a password in system files (requires root)
For devices with Android versions below 10, as well as for those users who have superuser rights (Root), there is a direct way to extract passwords from system files. The operating system stores all saved networks and their keys in a special configuration file, which is inaccessible to regular applications.
To use this method, you will need a file manager that supports root privileges, such as Root Explorer, ES File Explorer (with root access enabled) or Solid ExplorerAfter launching the application, grant it superuser rights by confirming the system request.
You need to go to the following path in the root directory: /data/misc/wifi/In this folder there is a file named wpa_supplicant.conf (or sometimes WifiConfigStore.xml (on newer versions with certain patches). Open this file with a text editor.
Inside the file, you'll see a list of all networks the phone has ever connected to. The information you're looking for is presented in blocks:
network={ssid="MyHomeWiFi"
psk="SuperSecretPassword123"
key_mgmt=WPA-PSK
}
Here ssid — this is the name of the network, and psk — and there's your password in plaintext. Be extremely careful when editing this file: any syntax error could cause the Wi-Fi module to stop working correctly, requiring you to reset the network settings.
⚠️ Attention: Making changes to system files without a backup can lead to system instability. If you're unsure of what you're doing, it's best to use the view-without-edit method.
What to do if the wpa_supplicant.conf file is missing?
On some modern devices (Android 11+), the data storage structure has changed. Files may be encrypted or moved to the protected /data/vendor/wifi area, which is inaccessible even to root users without special system modifications (Magisk modules). In this case, this method will not work.
Using password recovery apps
There are many apps on the Google Play Market that promise to reveal saved Wi-Fi passwords. However, it's important to understand how they work and the limitations imposed by Google's security policies. Apps without root access can't simply extract passwords from the system due to sandboxing.
Most of these programs operate as aggregators: they use password databases that users upload to the cloud. This means the app will only reveal the password if someone else with the same router (or SSID) has already shared it. For personal home networks with unique names, this method is often useless.
If you have root rights, applications like WiFi Password Viewer or WiFi Key Recovery can really help. They automate the process of reading a file. wpa_supplicant.conf, described above, and displays information in a user-friendly interface. You won't have to dig into the code manually.
- 🔑 WiFi Password Viewer: Simple interface, requires root, shows a list of all networks and their encryption keys.
- 📡 WiFi Map: Works without root, but uses crowdsourcing (a shared database). Useful for finding open networks while traveling, but not for retrieving your passwords.
- 🔓 WiFi Key Recovery (Root): Allows you not only to view, but also to immediately share the password or copy it to the clipboard.
Remember that installing apps from unknown sources or dubious Wi-Fi hackers can lead to malware infection. Always check reviews and the developer before installing such software. The security of your personal data is more important than the convenience of quickly accessing your password.
Resetting your router as a last resort
If none of the software methods work, and access to the router's admin panel is lost (the admin password is forgotten), the only guaranteed solution is a physical reset of the device to factory settings. This will erase all current configurations, including the network name, Wi-Fi password, and provider settings.
On the body of any router there is a small hole with the inscription Reset or RestoreTo reset the router, plug it in, find the reset hole, and press it with a thin object (paperclip, toothpick) for 10-15 seconds until the indicators start flashing. After this, the device will reboot.
After the reset, the router will return to its out-of-the-box state. The bottom sticker will show the factory login information and Wi-Fi network. This is usually an open network or a network with a password printed on the sticker. Once connected, you can access the settings at the default address and set a new password.
This method requires time to reconfigure your internet connection (PPPoE, L2TP, or dynamic IP), so use it only if all other options have been exhausted. Make sure you have your ISP contract or authorization details, if required, beforehand.
☑️ Preparing to reset your router
Specifics of different manufacturers and Android versions
The Android ecosystem is extremely fragmented, and what works on Samsung Galaxy, may differ by Xiaomi or HuaweiManufacturers are actively modifying the system menu, adding their own security features or, conversely, simplifying access to them.
On devices Samsung with shell One UI The password viewer feature is often built right into the Share menu, but may require a Samsung account to sync keys between the brand's devices. Xiaomi (MIUI/HyperOS) When generating a QR code, the password is sometimes hidden by asterisks, but it can be seen by tapping the eye icon next to the input field (if you are in the network editing menu).
Devices Huawei And Honor with shell EMUI Often, you can copy the password to the clipboard directly from the QR code menu by clicking the corresponding button under the image. Unfortunately, owners of older versions of Android (6.0 - 8.0) without root access are left with only the router's web interface to log in, as the system restrictions of those days were very strict.
- 📱 Samsung: Integration with Samsung Pass, QR code scanning with camera for autofill.
- 🍚 Xiaomi: Mi account login is often required for advanced Wi-Fi features.
- 🇨🇳 Huawei/Honor: Convenient password clipboard, but strict security policies in new versions of EMUI.
Always keep in mind that Google Patch Level security updates may patch previously known vulnerabilities that could allow access to configuration files. Therefore, on fully updated devices, older methods may no longer work.
⚠️ Attention: Interfaces and features may change with each firmware update. If you don't see the button described, look for a similar one or consult your smartphone manufacturer's help, as the layout of controls often changes.
Why don't some phones have a QR code button?
The missing button may be due to an outdated Android version (below 10), a manufacturer customization that removed this feature, or corrupted system files. In rare cases, it may be a bug in a specific software build.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the Wi-Fi password if the phone is not connected to it, but was connected before?
Yes, if you have root rights, you can view the file. wpa_supplicant.conf, where the history of all networks is stored. This is impossible to do without root access on older versions of Android. On newer versions (10+), the network history is synced with your Google account, but there's usually no direct access to the password text in the settings for "forgotten" networks, only the option to automatically reconnect.
Are Wi-Fi hacking apps safe to use?
No, most such apps are scams or contain viruses. They can't "crack" the modern WPA2/WPA3 encryption protocol by brute-force attacks in a reasonable amount of time. The only legal way is to use shared password databases, which puts your own network at risk if you use default passwords.
What should I do if the QR code is not read by the camera?
Try using a third-party QR code scanner app from the Play Store. Also, make sure the screen of the smartphone with the code is bright enough and the camera is focused. If the code is damaged or cut off by the interface, try taking a screenshot and opening it with Google Lens.
Where is the password on Android 13 and 14?
In Android 13 and 14, the mechanics remain the same: Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → (gear) → ShareHowever, Google has strengthened security: biometric authentication or entering a screen unlock PIN is now required to view the code or password.
Can a virus steal Wi-Fi passwords from my phone?
On non-rooted devices, this is extremely difficult due to app isolation. A virus won't be able to read the system password file. However, if you grant root access to an app or install a malicious profile, data theft will be possible. Always download software only from official stores.