Ever found yourself in a situation where you need to connect a new device to your WiFi, but you can’t remember the password? We’ve all been there. It’s like your brain decides to hit the delete button the moment you hit ‘save password’ on your devices. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back!
This guide is your lifeline to reconnecting with your elusive WiFi password. We’ll walk you through simple steps to retrieve your WiFi password on various devices, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac. Plus, we’ll show you how to dive into your router settings if you need to take the rescue mission a step further.
But that’s not all. We’ll also share tips on resetting your router, using Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) for port forwarding, and keeping your WiFi password secure. So, let’s get started and turn that WiFi frown upside down!
How Can I See WiFi Password
You will be able to recover lost passwords to a WiFi network that you were connected to in the past because the WiFi network name and password is usually stored in the device’s memory. This means that if you dig a little deep into your iPhone or Android, you might be able to see the password and connect to the WiFi network once again. You can access and share all your WiFi passwords through the WiFi settings on your Android. It is not as easy on an iPhone but it is still possible by sharing or syncing the password to your Mac and viewing them there.
Where you Might Need to Know your WiFi Password
There are several situations where you might need to know your WiFi password:
- Connecting a New Device: Whether it’s a new smartphone, tablet, smart TV, or gaming console, you’ll need your WiFi password to connect it to the internet.
- Guests Need Access: When friends or family come over and want to connect to your WiFi, you’ll need to provide them with the password.
- Network Troubleshooting: If you’re experiencing issues with your internet connection, you may need to disconnect and reconnect your devices. This will require your WiFi password.
- Device Reset or Replacement: If you’ve reset a device to its factory settings or replaced a device, you’ll need to re-enter your WiFi password to connect it to your network.
- Router Reset or Upgrade: If you’ve reset your router to its factory settings or upgraded to a new router, you’ll need to set a new WiFi password. You’ll then need to enter this new password on all your devices to reconnect them to your network.
- Security Reasons: If you suspect that unauthorized users are accessing your WiFi network, you might want to change your WiFi password to secure your network. You’ll need to know your current password to do this.
How to See WiFi Password on Different Devices
Sure, let’s break down the steps for each device:
1. Android: Steps to view saved WiFi passwords
Unfortunately, Android does not provide a built-in feature to view saved WiFi passwords. However, if your device is rooted, you can use a third-party app or a file explorer to find this information.
- Download and install a root-only file explorer, such as ES File Explorer.
- Navigate to the root folder.
- Go to the directory: /data/misc/wifi.
- Open the file named ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’.
- In this file, you’ll find a list of networks you’ve connected to, along with their passwords.
2. iOS: Explanation of why it’s not directly possible, alternatives
iOS does not allow you to view saved WiFi passwords directly. However, if you’ve saved your WiFi passwords to iCloud Keychain, you can access them on a Mac.
- On your Mac, open Keychain Access (you can find it using Spotlight).
- In the sidebar, select ‘Passwords’.
- Double-click the network you want the password for.
- Check the box next to ‘Show password’.
- You’ll be asked to enter your Mac’s password to reveal the WiFi password.
3. Windows: Using the network properties and command prompt
Windows allows you to view saved WiFi passwords using the network properties or the command prompt.
- Right-click the WiFi icon on the taskbar and select ‘Open Network & Internet settings’.
- Click on ‘Change adapter options’.
- Right-click your WiFi network and select ‘Status’.
- Click on ‘Wireless Properties’.
- Go to the ‘Security’ tab and check ‘Show characters’ to reveal the WiFi password.
4. Mac: Using Keychain Access
On a Mac, you can use Keychain Access to view saved WiFi passwords.
- Open Keychain Access (you can find it using Spotlight).
- In the sidebar, select ‘Passwords’.
- Double-click the network you want the password for.
- Check the box next to ‘Show password’.
- You’ll be asked to enter your Mac’s password to reveal the WiFi password.
5. Linux: Using the network settings and terminal
In Linux, you can use the terminal to view saved WiFi passwords.
- Open the terminal.
- Type the following command:
sudo cat /etc/NetworkManager/system-connections/NetworkName | grep psk=
- Replace ‘NetworkName’ with the name of your network.
- Press Enter and type your Linux password when prompted.
- The WiFi password will be displayed after ‘psk=’.
How to Access Router Settings
Sure, let’s go through the steps to access your router settings:
Finding the Router’s IP Address
- If you’re using Windows, open the Command Prompt by typing
cmd
into the search bar and hitting Enter. - In the Command Prompt, type
ipconfig
and press Enter. - Look for the entry labeled ‘Default Gateway’. The number next to this is your router’s IP address.
If you’re using a Mac:
- Open System Preferences and click on ‘Network’.
- Select your connected network and click on ‘Advanced’.
- Go to the ‘TCP/IP’ tab. The router’s IP address will be listed next to ‘Router’.
Logging into the Router’s Web Interface
- Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address into the address bar, then hit Enter.
- You’ll be prompted to enter a username and password. If you haven’t changed these from the default settings, you can often find them on a sticker on the router, in the router’s manual, or online.
- Once you’ve entered the correct username and password, you’ll be logged into your router’s web interface.
Locating the WiFi Password in the Interface
The exact location of the WiFi password will depend on your router’s interface, but it’s usually under ‘Wireless’ or ‘Wireless Security’ settings. Look for fields labeled ‘Password’, ‘Passphrase’, ‘Wireless Key’, or ‘WPA-PSK Key’. If your WiFi password is hidden, there may be an option to ‘Show password’ or ‘Show characters’.
Remember, if you change your WiFi password here, you’ll need to reconnect all your devices using the new password.
How to Reset Your Router
Where You Might Need to Reset Your Router
- Forgotten Login Details: If you’ve forgotten your router’s admin username or password, a reset will restore the default credentials.
- Persistent Technical Issues: Frequent disconnections, slow internet speeds, or other persistent issues may be resolved by resetting your router.
- Security Concerns: If you suspect your network has been compromised, resetting the router can help secure it by wiping any potentially harmful configurations.
Steps to Reset Most Common Routers:
- Locate the Reset Button: This is usually a small, recessed button on the back or bottom of the router.
- Press and Hold the Reset Button: Use a paperclip or similar object to press the button. Hold it for about 10-30 seconds (check your router’s manual to be sure).
- Release the Button: After holding the button, release it. The router will now reboot. Once the lights stop blinking, the reset process is complete.
Setting Up the Router After a Reset:
- Connect to the Router: Use an Ethernet cable to connect a computer to one of the router’s LAN ports.
- Access the Router’s Web Interface: Open a web browser and enter the router’s IP address (usually “192.168.1.1” or “192.168.0.1”).
- Enter Default Credentials: The username and password will have been reset to their defaults (often “admin” and “password”). Check your router’s manual if you’re unsure.
- Reconfigure the Router: You’ll need to set up your wireless network again. This includes setting a new network name (SSID), security type (WPA2 is recommended), and a strong password.
- Update Router Firmware: If available, download and install the latest firmware from the router manufacturer’s website. This can help improve performance and security.
Remember, resetting your router should be a last resort as it will erase all your current settings. Always try simpler troubleshooting steps first, like rebooting the router or checking for firmware updates.
How to Use Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) to Forward Ports Without Knowing the Password
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a set of networking protocols that allows devices on a network to discover each other and automatically establish working configurations. This can simplify tasks like sharing files, communicating on a network, and even setting up multiplayer gaming sessions.
One of the key features of UPnP is its ability to automatically forward ports. Normally, port forwarding requires manual configuration on your router, which can be a complex process. But with UPnP, compatible applications can automatically set up port forwarding rules for themselves.
Steps to Use UPnP to Forward Ports:
- Check if Your Router Supports UPnP: This information can usually be found in your router’s manual or on the manufacturer’s website.
- Enable UPnP on Your Router: This is usually done through the router’s web interface. The exact steps can vary depending on the router model, but generally, you’ll need to log in to the router’s web interface, find the UPnP settings (often under ‘Advanced Settings’ or ‘Network Settings’), and enable it.
- Enable UPnP in the Application: The application you’re using must also support UPnP and have it enabled. This is usually found in the application’s network or connection settings.
- Test the Connection: Once UPnP is enabled on both the router and the application, the application should be able to automatically forward the necessary ports. You can test this by trying to use the application’s network features (like joining a multiplayer game or sharing a file).
Remember, while UPnP can make port forwarding much easier, it also has potential security risks. UPnP doesn’t have built-in authentication, so any device on your network can set up port forwarding rules. This could potentially be exploited by malware or an attacker. Therefore, it’s recommended to only enable UPnP when necessary and to keep your network secure.
How to See WiFi Password on iPhone: Step-by-Step Guide
Apple does not allow its users to view WiFi passwords directly on the iPhone and there is no direct feature on the iOS that you can use to find a WiFi password unless the iPhone is jailbroken. This article explains all the different ways you can see hidden WiFi passwords on your iPhone without needing to jailbreak it. These methods include using iCloud Keychain, through router settings, on your hotspot settings, or by using third party applications.
1. Using iCloud Keychain
Apple has a feature called iCloud Keychain, a password management software on your iPhone that allows you to have access to all your saved passwords and you can retrieve these passwords when you need them later on. With this software, you can sync passwords across all your Apple devices like your Mac and iPad.
You can not directly view your saved password on your iPhone but you can access a tool on your Mac that is called Keychain Access that allows you to view WiFi passwords that are saved on your iPhone. For this to work, your Mac and iPhone must be signed in to the same iCloud account.
To see hidden WiFi password on iPhone using iCloud Keychain:
- Open Settings on your iPhone and navigate to iCloud by tapping on your ID at the top of the Screen.
- In iCloud settings, click on Keychain and turn on the toggle to start syncing your passwords.
- You should then open your Mac and click on the Apple icon at the top Left of your screen and tap on System Preferences.
- Select iCloud and turn on the Keychain option on the screen.
- In the Dock, tap on Launchpad and search for the Keychain Access application. Launch it and input the name of the WiFi network whose password you are trying to recover.
- Double click on the Network and tap on the Show Password option to view the password.
- To continue, you need to provide your Keychain password and click on OK.
Your saved WiFi password will appear on the screen which you can then use to access the WiFi network.
2. Through Router Settings
You can check the WiFi password by going directly to the source, the WiFi router. This is a foolproof method of finding a WiFi password on your iPhone because the routers let you log into them in order to check and change settings like the WiFi name and password.
To see hidden WiFi password on iPhone through router settings:
- Open Settings on your iPhone and click on WiFi.
- Click on the info icon (i) next to the WiFi network name and find the Router field.
- Copy down the router IP address number.
- Next, open your Web browser on the iPhone and search for the IP address you copied.
- Log in to your router and access the settings. This settings will let you have access to the WiFi network name and password.
You can then copy the password you’ve revealed using this method.
3. Personal Hotspot Settings
The Personal Hotspot feature on your iPhone allows you to turn your iPhone into a router that will connect all your other devices to the internet. If the WiFi network you are connecting to is your personal hotspot, you can simply check your password by accessing the personal hotspot settings on your iPhone and directly viewing the password. This process is very simple and straight forward.
To see hidden WiFi password of your Personal Hotspot on iPhone:
- Open Settings on your iPhone and click on Personal Hotspot.
- Navigate to the WiFi Hotspot menu and you will see the password of your Personal Hotspot.
You can then copy this password which you can share to your other devices or to other individuals.
4. Using Third Party Software
If you have tried all the methods above and you’ve not been able to recover the hidden WiFi password on your iPhone, then your last resort should be using third party software. These software give you access to saved WiFi network passwords on your iOS devices. However, they can be difficult to install if your iPhone is not jailbroken and using these softwares might expose your iPhone to external virus attack and malware.
This is why this should only be considered as a last resort and caution should be taken while looking for a software to use. Some legit third party softwares that you can install on your iPhone to see hidden WiFi passwords include AnyUnlock, 4uKey-password manager, DIssid, and Speedssid.
How to See WiFi Password on Android: Step-by-Step Guide
It is easier to see hidden WiFi network passwords on the Android device because there is an in-built feature that allows you to view these passwords through the phone’s settings. The process is usually simple, fast and straight forward, but it only works on phones running on Android 10 and above. If your phone is running on a lower Android version, your next option will be to root your phone and use third party software to see the hidden WiFi password.
1. Through The Phone Settings
This is the simplest way to gain access to WiFi networks that you’ve connected to in the past. It makes use of an in-built feature on your Android phone that allows you to view and share WiFi networks. This method only works on phones that are running on Android 10 or above. The procedure might differ based on the type of Android phone you are using.
To see hidden WiFi password on Android:
- Open the Settings app on your Android phone.
- Navigate to Network & Internet and access the WiFi settings.
- Click on Saved networks and select the network you need access to.
- Tap on Share and a QR code will appear.
- The password will be located plainly under the QR code.
You can then copy the password and you can also use the QR code to share the password to other devices.
2. Rooted Your Phone and Use Third Party Software
If your Android phone is running on Android 9 or below, then it is more difficult to see hidden WiFi passwords on your Android phone. To do so, you must root your phone to gain the highest level of access to your phone. This method is very complicated and might cause unnecessary issues on your phone if mishandled. This is why it is important to be cautious while using this method to see hidden WiFi passwords.
You can do this using a file manager app that has access to root explorer features or by using third party applications that lets you view hidden WiFi passwords. These applications include WiFi Password Viewer, Wi-Fi Key Recovery, WIFI WPS WPA TESTER, and Fastweb.Alice.WiFi.Recovery.
To see hidden WiFi password on rooted Android phone through file manager:
- Launch the file manager on your Android and find a folder named data/misc/wifi. The file manager must have root explorer capabilities.
- Grant app root access and locate wpa_supplicant.conf file.
- Open the file using a text editor and you will see the details of all the WiFi networks you’ve connected to in the past including the networks names and passwords.
The password you are looking for will be included in the details of the WiFi network which you can copy and share to gain access to the network.
How to Keep Your WiFi Password Secure
Importance of a Strong, Unique Password
Your WiFi password is the first line of defense in protecting your network from unauthorized access. A strong, unique password makes it much harder for potential intruders to gain access to your network. This not only protects your personal information from being stolen but also prevents others from using your internet connection without your permission.
Tips for Creating a Secure Password
- Length and Complexity: Your password should be at least 12 characters long and include a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Avoid Personal Information: Don’t use easily guessable information like your name, birthdate, or common words.
- Don’t Use the Same Password: If you use the same password for multiple services and one gets compromised, all your accounts are at risk. Make sure your WiFi password is unique.
- Change Your Password Regularly: Regularly updating your password can help keep your network secure, especially if you often have guests who use your WiFi.
Using a Password Manager
Remembering a unique, complex password for every service can be challenging. That’s where a password manager comes in. These tools securely store your passwords and can generate strong, unique passwords for you. Some even automatically update your passwords on a regular schedule. Examples of password managers include LastPass, Dashlane, and 1Password.
Remember, keeping your WiFi password secure is an essential part of maintaining your online security. By following these tips, you can help protect your network from unauthorized access.
What to Do If You Can’t Access the Device or Router
There might be instances when you can’t access your device or router, either because you’ve lost the device, forgotten the password, or the device isn’t responding. Here’s what you can do in such situations:
Contacting Your Internet Service Provider
If you’re unable to access your router, especially if you’re renting the device from your Internet Service Provider (ISP), the best course of action is to contact them directly. They can help you troubleshoot the issue, reset your router’s password, or even replace the device if necessary.
- Find the customer service number or email for your ISP. This is usually listed on their website or on your monthly bill.
- When you contact them, be ready to provide your account details for verification.
- Explain the issue clearly. They may guide you through some troubleshooting steps or schedule a visit from a technician.
Using a Network Scanner Tool
If you can’t access a device connected to your network, a network scanner tool can help you find it. These tools scan your network and provide a list of all connected devices, along with their IP addresses.
- Download and install a network scanner tool. Some popular options include Advanced IP Scanner for Windows and LanScan for Mac.
- Run the tool to scan your network. This might take a few minutes.
- Once the scan is complete, you’ll see a list of all devices connected to your network. Look for your device in this list.
Remember, if you’re unable to access a device because you’ve forgotten the password, you might need to perform a factory reset. Always make sure to keep a record of your passwords in a secure place to avoid such issues.
WiFi Security
WiFi security is crucial to protect your network from unauthorized access and potential threats. One of the key aspects of WiFi security is the security protocol used. Here’s a brief explanation of different security protocols:
- WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy): This is the oldest WiFi security protocol. It’s not considered secure anymore due to numerous vulnerabilities that can be easily exploited. It’s recommended to avoid using WEP if possible.
- WPA (WiFi Protected Access): This protocol was developed as a replacement for WEP. It’s more secure than WEP, but it has been largely replaced by WPA2 and WPA3.
- WPA2 (WiFi Protected Access II): This is currently the most common WiFi security protocol. It’s much more secure than WEP and WPA, and it’s suitable for most home and business networks.
- WPA3 (WiFi Protected Access III): This is the latest and most secure WiFi security protocol. It’s not yet widely supported, but it offers improved security features over WPA2.
Why a Strong WiFi Password is Important
A strong WiFi password is your first line of defense against unauthorized access to your network. If someone can easily guess your password, they can connect to your WiFi, use your internet connection, and potentially access other devices on your network. This could lead to a variety of problems, from slowed internet speeds to serious security breaches.
A strong password is especially important if you’re using a less secure WiFi protocol like WEP or WPA. However, even with a secure protocol like WPA2 or WPA3, a weak password can still be a potential vulnerability.
So, always make sure your WiFi password is strong and unique. It should be a long string of characters, including a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name, birthdate, or common words.
Managing WiFi Passwords in a Business or Enterprise Environment
Managing WiFi passwords in a business or enterprise environment requires a more robust approach than in a home setting. Here are some strategies to consider:
Using Enterprise-Grade Hardware with Individual Logins
Enterprise-grade hardware, such as commercial routers and access points, often come with enhanced security features suitable for a business environment. One such feature is the ability to set up individual logins for each user or device. This not only improves security but also makes it easier to manage network access. If a device is lost or an employee leaves the company, you can simply revoke that login without affecting other users.
Regularly Updating the WiFi Password
Regularly changing the WiFi password is a good practice to enhance network security. This can prevent unauthorized access from people who may have previously had access to your network. However, frequent changes can be disruptive in a large organization. A better approach might be to use individual logins, as mentioned above, and only change the main WiFi password when necessary.
Monitoring Network Traffic for Security Breaches
Monitoring your network traffic can help you detect any unusual activity that might indicate a security breach. This can include things like an unexpected increase in data usage, connections from unknown devices, or traffic at unusual times. Many enterprise-grade routers and network management systems include tools for monitoring network traffic. If you detect any potential security breaches, you should take immediate action to secure your network. This could include changing passwords, blocking unknown devices, or even notifying law enforcement if the breach is severe.
Remember, managing WiFi passwords in a business or enterprise environment is a critical part of your overall network security strategy. It requires a proactive approach and the right tools to ensure your network remains secure.
Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues you might encounter when trying to find or reset a WiFi password, along with possible solutions:
- Can’t Access Router’s Web Interface:
- Make sure you’re connected to your network.
- Check if you’re using the correct IP address for your router.
- Try a different web browser or clear your browser’s cache.
- Forgot Router’s Admin Username or Password:
- Look for the default credentials in your router’s manual or on a sticker on the router.
- If you’ve changed the default credentials and can’t remember them, you may need to reset your router to factory settings.
- Can’t Find WiFi Password in Router’s Web Interface:
- The password might be hidden. Look for a ‘Show password’ or ‘Show characters’ option.
- If you still can’t find it, the password might have been changed. You can set a new password in the router’s web interface.
- WiFi Password Doesn’t Work:
- Make sure you’re entering the password correctly. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive.
- If you’re sure you’re entering the password correctly and it still doesn’t work, try resetting your router and setting a new password.
- Can’t Connect to WiFi After Changing Password:
- Make sure you’re entering the new password correctly on your devices.
- Try forgetting the network on your device and reconnecting with the new password.
- If all else fails, reset your router and set a new password.
Remember, if you’re having persistent issues, it might be worth reaching out to your internet service provider or the manufacturer of your router for further assistance.
How to View WiFi Password Android
Viewing saved WiFi passwords on Android can be a bit tricky due to security measures. However, there are a few methods you can try:
Method 1: If Your Device is Rooted
If your Android device is rooted, you can use a file explorer that has root capabilities to view saved WiFi passwords.
- Download and install a root-only file explorer, such as ES File Explorer or Root Browser.
- Open the file explorer and navigate to the root folder.
- From there, go to the following directory: /data/misc/wifi.
- In this directory, look for a file named ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’.
- Open the ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’ file. You should see a list of the networks you’ve connected to, along with their passwords.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party App
There are several third-party apps available on the Google Play Store that can show saved WiFi passwords on rooted devices. Some of these apps include WiFi Password Show, WiFi Key Recovery, and WiFi Password Recovery. Please note that these apps require root access to work.
Method 3: Using ADB Commands
If you’re comfortable with using ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands and your device is enabled for developer options, you can retrieve the WiFi password.
- Connect your phone to your computer via USB.
- Open the command prompt on your computer and navigate to the location where you have ADB installed.
- Type the following commands:
adb devices
(This command starts the ADB server and lists the devices connected to your computer.)adb pull /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf c:/wpa_supplicant.conf
(This command pulls the file from your phone to your computer.)
- Open the ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’ file on your computer to view the saved networks and their passwords.
Please note that these methods can pose security risks and may violate your device’s terms of service. Always proceed with caution and only access this information for networks you have permission to use.
How to View WiFi Password iPhone
On an iPhone, due to Apple’s security policies, you can’t directly view saved WiFi passwords. However, there are a couple of workarounds:
Method 1: Using iCloud Keychain with a Mac
If you use iCloud Keychain to sync your passwords, you can view your saved WiFi passwords on a Mac.
- On your Mac, open Keychain Access (you can find it using Spotlight).
- In the sidebar, select ‘Passwords’.
- Double-click the network you want the password for.
- Check the box next to ‘Show password’.
- You’ll be asked to enter your Mac’s password to reveal the WiFi password.
Method 2: Resetting Your Router
If you can’t remember your WiFi password and can’t access it through iCloud Keychain, you may need to reset your router and set a new password. This should be a last resort, as it will disconnect all currently connected devices.
- Find the reset button on your router (usually a small hole marked ‘Reset’).
- Use a paperclip or similar object to press and hold the button for about 10 seconds.
- Once the router restarts, you can use the default WiFi password to connect. This is usually printed on a sticker on the router.
Method 3: Using a Password Manager
If you use a password manager like 1Password or LastPass, and you’ve saved your WiFi password there, you can access it through the password manager’s app or website.
Remember, it’s important to keep your WiFi password secure. Don’t share it with people you don’t trust, and consider changing it regularly to maintain your network’s security.
How to Find WiFi Password on Phone When Connected
Finding the WiFi password on a phone that’s currently connected to a network can be a bit tricky due to security measures. Here’s how you can do it based on the type of phone you have:
Android:
If your Android device is rooted, you can use a file explorer that has root capabilities to view saved WiFi passwords.
- Download and install a root-only file explorer, such as ES File Explorer or Root Browser.
- Open the file explorer and navigate to the root folder.
- From there, go to the following directory: /data/misc/wifi.
- In this directory, look for a file named ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’.
- Open the ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’ file. You should see a list of the networks you’ve connected to, along with their passwords.
Please note that this method requires root access, which can void your device’s warranty and pose security risks.
iOS:
On an iPhone, due to Apple’s security policies, you can’t directly view saved WiFi passwords. However, if you use iCloud Keychain to sync your passwords, you can view your saved WiFi passwords on a Mac.
- On your Mac, open Keychain Access (you can find it using Spotlight).
- In the sidebar, select ‘Passwords’.
- Double-click the network you want the password for.
- Check the box next to ‘Show password’.
- You’ll be asked to enter your Mac’s password to reveal the WiFi password.
Remember, it’s important to keep your WiFi password secure. Don’t share it with people you don’t trust, and consider changing it regularly to maintain your network’s security.
How to Know Connected WiFi Password in Mobile
Due to security reasons, most mobile operating systems do not allow you to directly view saved WiFi passwords. However, there are a few workarounds depending on the type of phone you have:
Android:
If your Android device is rooted, you can use a file explorer that has root capabilities to view saved WiFi passwords.
- Download and install a root-only file explorer, such as ES File Explorer or Root Browser.
- Open the file explorer and navigate to the root folder.
- From there, go to the following directory: /data/misc/wifi.
- In this directory, look for a file named ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’.
- Open the ‘wpa_supplicant.conf’ file. You should see a list of the networks you’ve connected to, along with their passwords.
Please note that this method requires root access, which can void your device’s warranty and pose security risks.
iOS:
On an iPhone, due to Apple’s security policies, you can’t directly view saved WiFi passwords. However, if you use iCloud Keychain to sync your passwords, you can view your saved WiFi passwords on a Mac.
- On your Mac, open Keychain Access (you can find it using Spotlight).
- In the sidebar, select ‘Passwords’.
- Double-click the network you want the password for.
- Check the box next to ‘Show password’.
- You’ll be asked to enter your Mac’s password to reveal the WiFi password.
Remember, it’s important to keep your WiFi password secure. Don’t share it with people you don’t trust, and consider changing it regularly to maintain your network’s security.
How to Find WiFi Password
Finding your WiFi password depends on whether you’re trying to find it on a computer, a mobile device, or directly from your router. Here’s how you can do it on each:
On a Windows Computer:
- Right-click the WiFi icon on the taskbar and select ‘Open Network & Internet settings’.
- Click on ‘Change adapter options’.
- Right-click your WiFi network and select ‘Status’.
- Click on ‘Wireless Properties’.
- Go to the ‘Security’ tab and check ‘Show characters’ to reveal the WiFi password.
On a Mac:
- Open Keychain Access (you can find it using Spotlight).
- In the sidebar, select ‘Passwords’.
- Double-click the network you want the password for.
- Check the box next to ‘Show password’.
- You’ll be asked to enter your Mac’s password to reveal the WiFi password.
On a Router:
- Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address into the address bar, then hit Enter. (The default IP address is usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.)
- You’ll be prompted to enter a username and password. If you haven’t changed these from the default settings, you can often find them on a sticker on the router, in the router’s manual, or online.
- Once you’ve entered the correct username and password, you’ll be logged into your router’s web interface. Look for a section labeled ‘Wireless’ or ‘Wireless Security’. Here, you should find your WiFi password.
Please note that these methods will only work if you’re already connected to the WiFi network in question or if you have physical access to the router.
Conclusion
Navigating the world of WiFi passwords can seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and tools, it’s a breeze. Whether you’re trying to connect a new device, share your network with a guest, or secure your connection, knowing how to access and manage your WiFi password is crucial.
We’ve explored how to find your WiFi password on various devices, access your router settings, and even reset your router when necessary. We’ve also delved into the world of UPnP for easy port forwarding and discussed the importance of keeping your WiFi password secure.
Remember, your WiFi password is more than just a string of characters. It’s the key to your online world and the shield that protects your digital life. So, keep it safe, keep it secure, and manage it wisely. And whenever you find yourself in a WiFi password pickle, know that you have the tools and knowledge to solve it.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes. You can find the hidden password of a WiFi network you’ve connected to in the past by using iCloud Keychain, accessing the WiFi router settings, or by making use of legit third party applications.
There are a lot of legit third party applications that you can install on your iPhone which can help you get access to hidden WiFi passwords. These applications need to be carefully selected or else your phone might be vulnerable to external malware and spyware. Examples of legit software you can use to recover hidden WiFi passwords include AnyUnlock, Dissid, 4uKey-password manager, and Speedssid.
It depends. If your Android phone is running on Android 10 or above, you will be able to see hidden WiFi passwords using the phone’s in-built feature. However, if your phone is running on Android 9 and below, you will need to root your phone and make use of a file manager or third party applications to see hidden WiFi passwords of WiFi networks you’ve connected to in the past.
No. If the password of the Wifi network you are using has been changed, you will need to reconnect to the network using the new password. If you don’t have the new password, you cannot access the WiFi network.
Yes, you can share your WiFi password with other Apple devices using the WiFi password sharing feature. Ensure both devices have Handoff enabled, are signed in to iCloud, and have Bluetooth turned on. The receiving device should then attempt to connect to the network, prompting a password sharing pop-up on your device.
For security reasons, most mobile operating systems do not allow you to view saved WiFi passwords. However, if your Android device is rooted, you can use a file explorer to find this information. On iOS, if you’ve saved your WiFi passwords to iCloud Keychain, you can access them on a Mac.
If you’ve forgotten your router’s admin credentials, you can try using the default username and password, which are often printed on the router or available in the manual. If you’ve changed the default credentials and can’t remember them, you may need to reset your router to factory settings.
There’s no hard and fast rule for how often you should change your WiFi password. However, it’s a good idea to change it whenever you suspect that your network security may have been compromised, or if you’ve shared your password with someone who no longer needs access to your network.
There could be several reasons for this. It’s possible that your device is not receiving a strong enough signal from the router, or there might be an issue with your device’s WiFi adapter. Try moving closer to the router, restarting your device, or forgetting the network on your device and reconnecting.
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) is a set of networking protocols that allows devices on a network to discover each other and automatically establish working configurations. This can simplify tasks like port forwarding, as UPnP-compatible applications can automatically set up port forwarding rules for themselves.
These are all WiFi security protocols. WEP is the oldest and least secure, while WPA3 is the latest and most secure. WPA2 is currently the most commonly used protocol.
To keep your WiFi password secure, make sure it’s at least 12 characters long and includes a mix of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using easily guessable information like your name or birthdate. It’s also a good idea to change your password regularly and to use a different password for each of your accounts.