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How to Retrieve & View WiFi Passwords on Smartphone & PC?

In today’s world, WiFi is more of a necessity than a luxury. We connect multiple devices to WiFi networks and often forget the passwords, especially if they are complex or auto saved. Knowing how to find a WiFi password on various devices can be a real lifesaver. After understanding how to know a WiFi password, you can connect new devices or share the password with your friends. More details on how to check WiFi passwords and get a WiFi password from the storage have been shared here! 

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Understanding WiFi Password Storage

Firstly, it is important to understand that most devices store WiFi passwords to automatically reconnect to networks. This is convenient but can lead to forgotten passwords. These passwords are stored securely to prevent unauthorised access, but there are legitimate ways to retrieve them when necessary.

How to check WiFi Password on Windows?

Windows computers show a connected WiFi’s password that is saved. Here’s how to know a WiFi password on your Windows device.

1. Via Control Panel

  • Go to ‘Network and Sharing Center.’

  • Click on ‘WiFi’ (your network name) and then ‘Wireless Properties.’

  • Under the ‘Security’ tab, check ‘Show characters’ to reveal the WiFi router’s password.

2. Using Command Prompt

  • Open ‘Command Prompt’ as an administrator.

  • Type netsh wlan show profiles to see a list of all networks.

  • Then type netsh wlan show profile name=”NETWORK_NAME” key=clear.

  • Replace “NETWORK_NAME” with the name of your network.

  • You can see the password of connected WiFi mentioned under ‘Key Content.’ 

Read more: How to login to your WiFi router?

Retrieving WiFi Password on macOS

On a Mac, you can use Keychain Access to find saved WiFi passwords. The method related to how to find WiFi password for MAC devices is shared below. 

Open Keychain Access

  • Keychain Access is found in the ‘Utilities’ folder, within ‘Applications.’

  • In Keychain Access, search for the WiFi network.

  • Double-click on the network name and check ‘Show Password.’

  • You may need to enter your Mac’s administrator password to see the password of a connected WiFi. 

How to check WiFi password on Android devices?

Finding the WiFi password on Android devices can be tricky and complicated. Some methods concerning how to know WiFi password for Android devices have been highlighted below. 

1. For Rooted Devices

If your device is rooted, you can use a file manager to navigate to /data/misc/wifi. Now, open the wpa_supplicant.conf file. Here, you will find the network SSID and its password. This can help you view WiFi passwords on Android devices. 

Note: Rooting your device can void the warranty and pose security risks.

2. For Non-Rooted Devices

Android does not typically allow users to view saved WiFi passwords. However, you can share the WiFi connection via QR code in newer versions.

Read more: How to connect to WiFi without a password in minutes?

Finding WiFi Password on iOS Devices

iOS devices do not allow you to directly view saved WiFi passwords. However, with a couple of workarounds you can know how to find password of connected WiFi. Some of the methods related to how to check WiFi passwords for iOS devices are shared below.

1. Using iCloud Keychain Sync

If you use iCloud Keychain, the password might be accessible on a paired Mac via Keychain Access.

2. From a Connected Mac

If your iOS device is connected to WiFi, and you have a Mac using the same iCloud account, find the password using the method described for macOS.

Read more: How to extend or increase your WiFi range?

Checking WiFi Password via Router Settings

Here is another universal method concerning how to know a connected WiFi’s password through router settings:

1. Accessing Router Admin Page

  • Enter the router’s IP address into a web browser. The IP address is typically 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.

  • Log in with the admin username and password. If you have not changed it, it might still be set to the default. You can find the default password in the router’s manual.

2. Finding the Password

  • Once logged in, look for sections like ‘Wireless Settings,’ ‘WiFi Settings,’ or similar.

  • The WiFi password should be visible under these settings.

Read more: How to change your WiFi password and name?

Tips for Managing WiFi Passwords

  • Using Password Managers: Consider using a password manager to securely store and retrieve your WiFi passwords.

  • Regular Updates: Regularly updating your WiFi passwords enhances network security.

Takeaway

There are various ways to learn how to get a WiFi password that you have forgotten. For Windows and Mac users, the process is relatively straightforward, while Android and iOS users have to rely on workarounds. Checking the router’s settings is also a viable option across all platforms.

Remember, WiFi passwords are meant to keep your network secure. So, it is crucial to handle this information responsibly. Only share WiFi passwords with trusted individuals and always keep your router’s firmware updated for the best security. With these tips and tricks, you should never find yourself stranded without WiFi access again.

FAQs

  1. How to know a WiFi password in laptop?

A1: If your laptop runs on the Windows Operating system, you should visit the ‘Network and Sharing Center’ in the settings option. Now, select your WiFi name and click on its properties. Here, you can click on the ‘Show Characters’ box to check the WiFi password. How to find WiFi password through command prompt has also been shared in the above sections.  

  1. How to know the connected WiFi’s password?

A2: The automatic connection shows the WiFi password in mobile, laptop, and other digital devices. However, the method depends on the device you have connected your WiFi connection with. Techniques related to how to check WiFi password in mobile, computer, and MAC devices have been shared above. 

  1. What is my WiFi password?

A3: If you don’t know your WiFi password or have never set it, use the default password. Contact your ISP or refer to the user manual or guide to get the WiFi router’s password. 

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