A situation when you need to connect a new device to the network, and Wi-Fi password Losing or forgetting a password is quite common. This can happen after resetting a router, purchasing a new device, or simply because the code hasn't been manually entered in a while. Fortunately, modern operating systems and hardware offer several mechanisms for restoring access without the need for a full reset.
Recovering a forgotten password depends on whether you have at least one device already connected to the network, or if no one has access. In the former case, the task can be solved in a couple of minutes by viewing saved data in Windows or macOS. If all devices are disconnected, you'll have to resort to tweaking the router's settings or physically searching for the factory data.
In this article, we'll cover all possible scenarios in detail: from viewing saved keys in your computer's registry to using QR codes on smartphones. You'll learn how to find information through the router's web interface and what to do if none of the software methods help. The main thing is, don't rush into things. Hard Resetuntil you try safe recovery methods.
⚠️ Important: If you plan to reset your router to factory settings, make sure you have a contract with your provider or authorization data (PPPoE, L2TP), as after the reset, the internet may stop working without reconfiguration.
Finding a saved password on a Windows computer
If a Windows laptop or desktop PC has previously connected to your wireless network, the operating system may have saved the access key in its storage. This is the simplest and most secure method, requiring no third-party software. However, you will need administrator privileges to access this data.
To find a forgotten code, you need to go to the Network Control Panel. In modern versions of Windows 10 and 11, the path may be slightly different, but the logic remains the same: you need to find the active connection and its security properties. There, in the field Network security key, usually hidden by asterisks, and the desired combination is stored.
An alternative, faster method for advanced users is to use the command prompt. This method allows you to display a list of all networks ever used and their passwords in plain text. To do this, open the command prompt as administrator and enter the command:
netsh wlan show profilesOnce the list of profiles is displayed, enter the command for a specific network name to see the key:
netsh wlan show profile name="Your_Network_Name" key=clearFind the line in the command output Key Content — this is your password. This method works even if the network is currently inactive, as long as the profile is saved in the system.
- 🔍 Open "Settings" and go to "Network & Internet".
- 🔍 Select "Advanced network settings" or "Network and Sharing Center".
- 🔍 Click on the name of your Wi-Fi network and select "Wireless network properties."
- 🔍 Go to the "Security" tab and check the "Show entered characters" box.
How to find out the password on macOS and other Apple devices
Ecosystem users Apple Store all your passwords in iCloud Keychain or local Keychain storage. If your Mac ever connects to a forgotten network, finding your password is easy. In the latest versions of macOS (Ventura and later), this process has become even easier thanks to integration with the Shortcuts app and an improved settings interface.
To search through Keychain, use the built-in Spotlight search (Cmd+Space) and enter the app name. Select "Passwords" from the list on the left, then enter your network name in the search bar. The system will ask for confirmation via Touch ID or your account password, after which it will display your saved data.
iPhones and iPads running iOS 16 and later now have built-in password viewing functionality. Previously, this required using a Mac, but now simply go to Wi-Fi settings, tap the information icon (i) next to the network, and tap the hidden password field. Face ID or Touch ID instantly unlocks the display.
What to do if Face ID isn't working?
If biometric unlocking doesn't work, make sure the sensor is clean. As a last resort, use the digital passcode you set when setting up the device. Without identity verification, the system won't display your saved security keys.
This is convenient if your Mac is turned off but you have an iPad nearby.
- 🍏 Open Keychain Access via Spotlight search.
- 🍏 Find the name of your wireless network in the list.
- 🍏 Double-click and check the box "Show password".
- 🍏 Enter your administrator password or use Touch ID to confirm.
Restoring access via the router's web interface
If no devices are connected to the network, but you have a computer with a cable connection (via LAN) or you can connect to the same router's open guest network, you can try accessing its settings. To do this, you need to know Gateway IP address and login details for the admin panel.
Standard addresses most often look like this: 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1Enter this address in your browser. If the page requires a login and password, try the default combinations (admin/admin) if you haven't changed them. This information is often found on a sticker on the bottom of the device.
After logging in, find the section responsible for the wireless network. It may be called Wireless, Wi-Fi, Wireless mode or WLAN. Inside this section, in the security subsection (Security), the current password will be displayed in the text field. You can copy it or change it to a new one.
| Router brand | Standard IP | Default login | Default password |
|---|---|---|---|
| TP-Link | 192.168.0.1 | admin | admin |
| ASUS | 192.168.1.1 | admin | admin |
| D-Link | 192.168.0.1 | admin | (empty) |
| Xiaomi | 192.168.31.1 | admin | admin |
| Keenetic | 192.168.1.1 | admin | 1234 |
⚠️ Note: Router firmware interfaces are constantly being updated. The menu layout may differ from what's described. Look for sections labeled "Wireless," "Security," or "WLAN."
Using QR codes on Android smartphones
Modern smartphones based on Android (versions 10 and above) allow you to share your Wi-Fi password via QR code. If you have a phone that's already connected to the network, you can instantly transfer access to another device or simply view the code in text format.
To do this, go to Wi-Fi settings, tap the gear icon next to the active network, or select "Share" / "QR code." An image will appear on the screen that you can scan with the other device's camera. But how do you find out the password if you have to enter it manually?
Take a screenshot of the received QR code. Then open any QR code reader or use the built-in image analyzer in Google Lens. Point the camera at the screenshot, and the system will recognize the text. The result string will read something like this: WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:MyPassword123;;The code you are looking for is located after the symbol P:.
- 📱 Go to Wi-Fi settings on the connected Android smartphone.
- 📱 Click on the network name or the Share button.
- 📱 Take a screenshot of the QR code that appears.
- 📱 Scan the screenshot with Google Lens or any QR scanner to see the text string with the password.
Physical search for data on the router body
Many users forget that the factory settings, including the network name (SSID) and connection password, are often printed on a special sticker on the bottom or back of the router. This is only relevant if you never changed the default settings during the initial setup.
Carefully inspect the device. Look for a sticker with the manufacturer's logo and barcodes. There may be fields there. Wireless Password, WPA Key, PIN or simply PasswordIf the device is new or has not been reset, this code will work.
It's also worth checking the documentation that came with your router. Sometimes manufacturers include a separate card with unique data for each unit. If the sticker is worn or damaged, this method, unfortunately, won't help.
Resetting settings as a last resort
If none of the software methods helped, and you do not remember the password you changed earlier, the last option is to completely reset the router settings (Hard Reset). This will reset the device to factory settings and the password will be the one on the sticker.
To do this, find a small hole with the inscription on the body Reset or RestorePress it with a paperclip or toothpick and hold for 10-15 seconds until the lights flash. After rebooting, the router will operate with factory settings.
However, please remember: after the reset, you will have to reconfigure your internet connection (enter your ISP login and password) if this information isn't saved automatically or isn't tied to your MAC address. Be prepared for internet connection loss during this process.
☑️ Checklist before resetting your router
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out someone else's Wi-Fi password if I forgot mine?
No, it's impossible to find out the password to someone else's closed network without access to its settings or connected devices. Hacking into other people's networks is prohibited by law. You can only restore access to your own network using the methods described above.
What should I do if the password on the router sticker has been erased?
If the sticker is illegible and you don't remember the password, a reset will help. After that, the router will use the default factory password, which can be found in the manual for this model online or on the manufacturer's website.
Where can I find the password for Keenetic routers?
In the Keenetic interface (usually at 192.168.1.1), go to the "My Networks and Wi-Fi" menu, then select "Home Network." In the "Access Point" section, you'll see a "Password" field that you can display or change.
Will Wi-Fi Password Viewer help?
Apps of this type only work on rooted Android devices or if the device is already connected to the network. Without superuser rights, they cannot access system files where security keys are stored.