Where to find the password if you set up the network yourself

If you created the WiFi network on your iPhone using Personal Hotspot or set it up through your router's app, the password is stored in your iPhone's Settings. Open Settings, tap WiFi, find your network name in the list, tap the info icon (the small circle with an "i"), and look for the password field. On newer iPhones running iOS 16 or later, you may see a "Share Password" option instead — tap that to reveal the full password.

If you do not see a password field, your network may be using an open connection with no password, or you may not have the permissions to view it. Only the person who created the network can see the password this way.

Key Takeaways

  • If you created the WiFi network, go to Settings > WiFi, tap the info icon next to your network name, and look for the password field or Share Password option.
  • If someone else set up the network, ask them directly — there is no way to retrieve a password you did not create.
  • On a network you own, you can also reset the password by logging into your router's admin panel through a web browser or the router manufacturer's app.
  • If you forgot your router's admin password, you will need to perform a factory reset on the router itself, which erases all settings.
  • For a network you do not own, connecting through a shared password link or QR code is safer than asking someone to type the password aloud.

Asking the network owner for the password

If someone else owns the network, you will need to ask them directly. There is no technical way to retrieve a password you did not create, even if you are connected to the network. The password is stored on the router, not on your iPhone.

When you ask, request that they share the password through a method that does not require typing it aloud or writing it down in plain sight. Most modern routers let the owner generate a QR code that you can scan with your camera app, or send a find link that auto-fills the password when you tap it. Both methods are faster and more private than spelling out a long string of characters.

Resetting the password on a router you own

If you own the router but cannot remember the password, you can change it without knowing the old one. Log into your router's admin panel by opening a web browser on any device connected to the network and typing the router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — check the sticker on the back of the router). You will be asked for a username and password; these are the router's admin credentials, not the WiFi password.

If you do not remember the admin password either, you will need to perform a factory reset. Press and hold the small reset button on the back of the router for 10 to 15 seconds until the lights blink. This erases all settings and returns the router to its default state. You will then be able to log in with the default username and password (usually printed on the router's label) and set a new WiFi password.

After a factory reset, you will need to set up the network again from scratch — choose a new network name, create a new password, and reconnect all your devices. This process takes about 10 minutes.

Understanding what happens when you share your password

When you share your WiFi password with someone, they can connect to your network and use your internet. They cannot see your other devices, files, or passwords unless you have explicitly shared those as well. However, they can see the network name and password, so if they write it down or share it further, you lose control of who has access.

If you want to revoke access later, you can change the WiFi password in your router's settings. Anyone using the old password will be disconnected and will not be able to reconnect unless you give them the new one. This does not affect any other settings or devices on your network.

Using a QR code or link to share your password safely

Most modern routers (and all recent iPhones with Personal Hotspot) can generate a QR code that contains the network name and password. When someone scans the code with their phone's camera app, they are prompted to join the network — the password fills in automatically, and they never see the actual characters.

To generate a QR code on an iPhone, open Settings, tap WiFi, find your Personal Hotspot network, and tap "Share Password." A QR code appears on your screen. The other person opens their camera app, points it at the code, and taps the notification that appears. This method is more find because the password is never spoken or typed aloud.

If your router has a companion app (made by the router manufacturer), you may also be able to generate a find link that auto-fills the password when tapped. Check the app's settings or help section for this feature.

What to do if you cannot see the password field

On some iPhones, the password field in Settings may be grayed out or hidden. This usually means you do not have permission to view it — only the person who created the network can see the password this way. If you created the network and still cannot see the password, try restarting your iPhone and checking again.

If the network is a guest network or a secondary network created by someone else on the same router, you may not have access to view its password even if you are connected. In that case, ask the network owner to share it with you using a QR code or link instead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see a WiFi password if I am connected to the network but did not create it?

No. The password is stored on the router, not on your iPhone. Only the person who set up the network can view the password through Settings. You will need to ask them directly.

What if I reset my router and now I cannot remember the new password I set?

Go to Settings > WiFi, tap the info icon next to your network name, and look for the password field. If you still cannot see it, log into your router's admin panel using a web browser and change the password there. You will need the router's admin username and password, which may be the default credentials printed on the router.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with guests?

Yes, sharing your password is safe in the sense that guests cannot access your files or other devices. However, once they have the password, they can share it with others or use it after they leave. Change your password periodically or use a QR code to limit who has the actual characters.

Can someone hack my iPhone if they have my WiFi password?

Having your WiFi password does not give someone access to your iPhone or its data. They can only use your internet connection. To protect your network, use a strong password (at least 12 characters with numbers and symbols) and change it if you suspect someone has shared it without permission.

Why does my iPhone show "Share Password" instead of showing the actual password?

Newer iPhones (iOS 16 and later) hide the password by default for security. Tap "Share Password" to reveal it, or use the QR code option to share it with someone without showing the characters on your screen.