The quickest way to see your WiFi password

Windows 10 stores your WiFi password in the network settings, and you can view it without any extra software. Open Settings, go to Network & Internet, select WiFi, then choose "Manage known networks" and pick your network name. Click "Properties" and toggle "Show" next to the password field — you'll see the actual password in plain text.

This method works only if you're already connected to that WiFi network. If you've forgotten the password and can't connect, you'll need to use the router method instead (covered below).

Key Takeaways

  • The Settings app shows your password only for networks you're currently connected to — you need to be online to use this method.
  • The password appears in the WiFi Properties panel under "Security key" once you toggle the "Show" button.
  • If you're not connected to the network, you can reset the password directly on your router using its admin panel.
  • Your router's default login credentials are usually printed on a sticker on the device itself.

Step-by-step: Finding the password through Settings

Start by clicking the Windows Start button and typing "Settings" into the search box. Open the Settings app and select "Network & Internet" from the left menu.

Click "WiFi" in the left sidebar, then scroll down and click "Manage known networks." You'll see a list of every network your computer has ever connected to. Find the one you want and click its name.

A new window opens showing network details. Look for the line labeled "Security key" — this is your password. Click the eye icon or toggle labeled "Show" next to it, and the password will appear in plain text. You can now copy it or write it down.

Finding the password through Command Prompt (faster for some users)

If you prefer the command line, this method is quicker once you know the steps. Right-click the Start button and select "Windows PowerShell (Admin)" or "Command Prompt (Admin)." You'll need administrator rights for this to work.

Type this command exactly: netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear — but replace "YourNetworkName" with the actual name of your WiFi network (the one that shows on your phone or laptop when you scan for networks).

Press Enter. PowerShell will display network details. Scroll down to find the line that says "Key Content" — the string of characters next to it is your password. This method also only works if you're currently connected to that network.

Resetting the password through your router if you're not connected

If you can't connect to the network at all, you'll need to access the router itself. Look for a sticker on the back or bottom of your router — it will show a default username and password, usually something like "admin" and "password" or a code printed by the manufacturer.

On any connected device (phone, tablet, or another computer), open a web browser and type your router's IP address into the address bar. This is usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — the sticker will tell you which one. Log in using the credentials from the sticker.

Once you're in the router's admin panel, look for a section called "WiFi," "Wireless," "Network," or "Security." The exact name depends on your router brand. Find the field labeled "Password," "Passphrase," or "Pre-Shared Key" — that's where your current password is stored. You can either view it there or change it to something new.

Why you might not see the password even when connected

Some networks, particularly those set up by workplaces or schools, don't store the password in a way Windows can display. If you toggle "Show" and nothing appears, or if the field is grayed out, the network was likely set up using a certificate or enterprise authentication method rather than a straightforward password.

In this case, contact whoever manages the network — your IT department, your internet provider, or the person who originally set up the WiFi. They can either give you the password or help you reconnect if you've been disconnected.

Protecting your password once you find it

Once you have the password, treat it like you would any other sensitive information. Don't share it over email or text message, and don't post it online. If you're giving it to a guest, consider changing it afterward, especially if you don't know how long they'll have access.

If you suspect someone has used your WiFi without permission, change the password through your router's admin panel. This will disconnect everyone currently using it, so warn household members first. Then share the new password only with people you trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I forgot my router's admin password?

Most routers have a reset button (usually a small hole on the back). Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds with a paperclip or pen to restore factory defaults. This erases all your settings, so you'll need to set up the WiFi name and password again from scratch. Check your router's manual for the exact reset time.

Can I see passwords for networks I used to connect to but don't anymore?

Yes, through the "Manage known networks" menu in Settings. Windows remembers every network you've ever connected to. Find the old network name in the list, click it, and toggle "Show" next to the security key. This works even if you're not currently connected to it.

Is it safe to use the Command Prompt method instead of Settings?

Both methods are equally safe — they're just different ways to access the same information that's already stored on your computer. Use whichever one feels easier. The Command Prompt method is slightly faster if you do it often, but Settings is more straightforward for most people.

What if the password field shows asterisks or dots instead of the actual password?

That means the "Show" toggle didn't work or the network uses enterprise authentication. Try the Command Prompt method instead — it usually displays the password even when Settings shows only dots. If that doesn't work either, contact your network administrator.