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How to Find WiFi Password When You Forgot it

by | Oct 11, 2023 | Internet

In today’s world, WiFi has become as essential as electricity or running water. Whether for work, entertainment, or keeping in touch with loved ones, we rely on a stable and secure internet connection. But what happens when you forget your WiFi password? Maybe you set it up months ago and haven’t needed it since, or perhaps someone else set it up for you. Whatever the case, being locked out of your own WiFi network can be incredibly frustrating.

Fortunately, there are several methods to retrieve a forgotten WiFi password. In this guide, we’ll explore different ways to recover your WiFi password across various devices, access it directly from your router, and even use command-line tools. By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to regain access to your network quickly and securely.

Checking Saved Wi-Fi Passwords on Your Devices

Most modern devices store your WiFi passwords for easy reconnection. If you’ve connected to your WiFi network before, your device likely has the password saved somewhere. Here’s how you can find it:

Windows Devices

Accessing Network and Sharing Center

  1. Open the Control Panel: Press Win + R, type control, and press Enter.
  2. Navigate to Network and Sharing Center: Go to Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center.
  3. Select Your WiFi Network: Click on the WiFi name next to ‘Connections.’

Viewing the WiFi Password

  1. In the WiFi Status window, click on Wireless Properties.
  2. Go to the Security tab.
  3. Check the box next to Show characters to reveal your WiFi password.

macOS Devices

Using Keychain Access

Keychain Access is a built-in macOS app that stores your passwords, including your WiFi credentials.

  1. Open Keychain Access: You can find it via Spotlight (Cmd + Space) by typing “Keychain Access.”
  2. Search for Your WiFi Network: Use the search bar in the Keychain Access window to find your WiFi network by name.
  3. Reveal the Password: Double-click on the network name, check Show password, and enter your Mac’s administrator password. Your WiFi password will then be displayed.

Android Devices

Using Device Settings

If your Android device is running Android 10 or later, retrieving the WiFi password is straightforward.

  1. Open Settings: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi.
  2. Select the Connected Network: Tap on your connected WiFi network.
  3. Share the Network: Tap Share to generate a QR code that contains your WiFi credentials. Under the QR code, you’ll see your WiFi password.

Using Third-Party Apps

For older Android versions, you might need to use a third-party app to view saved WiFi passwords. Ensure you download a reputable app from the Google Play Store and be aware that these apps often require root access.

iOS Devices

Using iCloud Keychain

If you use iCloud Keychain, you can sync your WiFi passwords across your Apple devices.

  1. Access WiFi Passwords on a Mac: If you have a Mac with Keychain Access synced, you can retrieve the WiFi password as described earlier.
  2. Using iOS Devices Directly: Unfortunately, iOS doesn’t allow you to view saved WiFi passwords directly on the device unless it’s jailbroken. However, you can share WiFi networks with other iOS devices nearby without revealing the password.

Finding Wi-Fi Passwords on Your Router

If you can’t access the password through your device, the next best option is to retrieve it directly from your router.

Accessing the Router’s Admin Panel

  1. Locating the Router’s IP Address
    • On Windows: Open Command Prompt (Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter). Type ipconfig and press Enter. Your router’s IP address will be listed under Default Gateway.
    • On macOS: Open System Preferences > Network, select your active connection, and click Advanced. Your router’s IP address will be listed under TCP/IP.
  2. Logging into the Router
    • Open your web browser and enter the router’s IP address into the address bar.
    • You’ll be prompted to log in. If you haven’t changed the login credentials, they are often set to a default username like admin and a password like password. If you’ve customized them and forgotten, you may need to reset the router.

Viewing WiFi Settings in the Admin Panel

Once logged in, navigate to the WiFi settings or wireless security section. Here, you’ll find the WiFi password under the Security or Wireless tab. Be careful not to change any settings unless you’re sure of what you’re doing, as incorrect configurations can disrupt your network.

Resetting the Router to Default Settings

When and Why to Reset

If you can’t log in because you’ve forgotten the router’s admin credentials, or if you suspect the settings have been tampered with, resetting the router to its factory settings might be necessary.

Steps to Perform a Reset

  1. Locate the reset button on the back of the router.
  2. Press and hold the reset button for about 10 seconds (use a paperclip if it’s recessed).
  3. The router will reboot and restore all settings to default, including the WiFi password. The default password is often printed on the router itself.

Using Command Prompt or Terminal

For those comfortable with command-line tools, you can retrieve your WiFi password using Command Prompt on Windows or Terminal on macOS and Linux.

For Windows Users

Using Command Prompt

  1. Open Command Prompt: Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter.
  2. Enter the Command: Type the following command and press Enter:

arduino

Copy code

netsh wlan show profile name=”YourNetworkName” key=clear

Replace YourNetworkName with your actual WiFi network name.

  1. Find the Password: Scroll down to Key Content under Security settings to see your WiFi password.

For macOS and Linux Users

Using Terminal

  1. Open Terminal: Find it in Applications > Utilities or via Spotlight search.
  2. Enter the Command: Type the following command and press Enter:

arduino

Copy code

security find-generic-password -wa “YourNetworkName”

Replace YourNetworkName with your actual WiFi network name.

  1. Enter Your Administrator Password: The system will prompt you to enter your Mac’s admin password to display the WiFi password.

Retrieving Password from ISP or Network Administrtor

If all else fails, you can contact your ISP (Internet Service Provider) or network administrator for help.

Contacting Your ISP

When to Contact Your ISP

If you’re using a router provided by your ISP or if the network was set up by a technician, your ISP may have the password on file.

What Information to Provide

Have your account number, billing information, and possibly your router’s serial number ready when you contact your ISP. This will help them verify your identity and retrieve the correct information.

Requesting Help from Network Administrator

In Corporate or Shared Networks

If you’re in an office or shared space and don’t have access to the router or network settings, your network administrator can help.

Ensuring Privacy and Security

When requesting the WiFi password, ensure it’s communicated securely. Avoid writing it down in public or sending it over insecure channels like unencrypted emails.

Preventing Future Password Forgetfulness

Now that you’ve retrieved your WiFi password, it’s essential to ensure you won’t find yourself in the same situation again. Here’s how:

Using a Password Manager

Password managers are secure tools that store your passwords in an encrypted format, making them easy to access but difficult for unauthorized users to crack. Examples include LastPass, 1Password, and Bitwarden.

Creating Strong but Memorable Passwords

When setting a new WiFi password, try to create one that’s strong (includes a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols) but also memorable. A good approach is to use a phrase or sentence you’ll remember, then replace some letters with symbols or numbers.

Regular Backup of Passwords

Consider writing down important passwords and storing them in a secure place, such as a locked drawer or safe. Alternatively, back them up digitally using encrypted files.

Conclusion

Forgetting your WiFi password can be a hassle, but as you’ve seen, there are multiple ways to recover it. Whether through your device, directly from the router, or using command-line tools, you can quickly regain access to your network.

Always remember to secure your network afterward and take precautions to prevent future forgetfulness. Using a password manager, creating strong yet memorable passwords, and regularly backing them up can save you from future headaches.

With this knowledge in hand, you’re now better equipped to handle this common issue without stress or unnecessary frustration. 

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