View Your WiFi Password Through Network Settings

Windows 10 stores your WiFi password in the system, and you can see it without resetting the network. Open the Settings app by pressing the Windows key and typing "settings", then select Network & Internet. Click WiFi on the left, then Manage known networks. Find your network name in the list, click it, and select Properties. Scroll down to the Security section — your password appears in the Security key field, but it will be hidden by default.

To reveal the hidden password, check the box next to Show security key. Windows may ask you to confirm your user account password before displaying it. Once you check that box, the WiFi password becomes visible in plain text. You can now copy it or write it down.

This method works only if you have already connected to that network on this computer. If you have never connected, Windows has no password stored to show you.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows 10 displays your saved WiFi password through Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage known networks.
  • The password is hidden by default; you must check the "Show security key" box to see it in plain text.
  • Windows may require you to enter your user account password before revealing the network password.
  • This method only works for networks you have already connected to on that computer.
  • If you cannot remember your Windows password, you cannot view the WiFi password through Settings.

Find Your Password Using Command Prompt

If the Settings method does not work or you prefer the command line, you can retrieve the password through Command Prompt. Right-click the Start menu and select Windows PowerShell (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin). Type the following command exactly as written: netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear, replacing "YourNetworkName" with your actual network name.

Press Enter. The command returns detailed information about that network. Look for the line labeled Key Content — the string of characters next to it is your WiFi password. Copy it carefully, as it is case-sensitive.

If you do not know your exact network name, type netsh wlan show profile first to see a list of all networks your computer has connected to. Then run the full command with the correct name.

Retrieve the Password from Your Router

If Windows does not have the password stored, or if you need to confirm what the router is actually broadcasting, you can check the router itself. Most routers have a sticker on the back or bottom with the default WiFi name and password printed on it. Look for labels like SSID (the network name) and Password or Key.

If the password has been changed since the router was set up, you will need to log into the router's admin panel. Open a web browser and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar. Most routers use one of these addresses. You will be prompted to log in — the default username is often "admin" and the password is often "admin" or "password", though this varies by manufacturer.

Once logged in, look for a section labeled WiFi Settings, Wireless, or Security. The password field will show your current network password. Write it down or take a screenshot before you close the browser.

What to Do If You Cannot Find the Password

If none of these methods work, the password may have been changed on the router but not updated on your Windows computer. In this case, you have two options: reset the router to factory defaults, or change the password from the router's admin panel if you can log in.

To reset the router, locate the small reset button (usually recessed) on the back. Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The router will restart and return to its factory settings, including the default password printed on the sticker. You will then need to reconnect all your devices and reconfigure any custom settings you had made.

If you know the router's admin password but not the WiFi password, log into the admin panel and change the WiFi password to something you will remember. Then reconnect your Windows computer using the new password.

Protect Your WiFi Password After Finding It

Once you have your password, do not share it in email, text messages, or screenshots. If you need to give it to someone, tell them in person or over a phone call. Change your WiFi password periodically — at least once a year — especially if many people have used your network or if you suspect someone has accessed it without permission.

To change your password, log into the router's admin panel, find the WiFi settings, and enter a new password. Make it at least 12 characters long and include uppercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Avoid using personal information like birthdays or addresses. After you change it, you will need to reconnect all your devices, including your Windows computer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my password showing as blank or empty in Windows?

A blank password field usually means the network is open and does not require a password to connect. Some public networks and guest networks work this way. If you believe the network should have a password, check the router's admin panel to confirm the current settings.

Can I see passwords for networks I am not currently connected to?

No. Windows only stores passwords for networks you have connected to before. If you have never connected to a network on this computer, Windows has no password to display. You would need to check the router itself or contact the network owner.

What if I forgot my Windows user password and cannot access Settings?

You cannot view the WiFi password through Windows without logging in. Your only option is to check the router directly — either look for the password on the sticker, or reset the router to factory defaults if you have physical access to it.

Is it safe to use Command Prompt to view my password?

Yes. Command Prompt is a built-in Windows tool and does not send your password anywhere. It only reads what is already stored on your computer. Anyone with admin access to your computer can view passwords this way, so keep your Windows login find.

Will changing my WiFi password disconnect my devices?

Yes. Once you change the password on the router, all connected devices will lose connection. You will need to reconnect each device — including your Windows computer — using the new password. Devices will not automatically reconnect with the old password.