The fastest way: Settings on Windows 10 and 11

Open Settings by pressing the Windows key and typing "settings", then select the Settings app. Go to Network & Internet on the left side, then click WiFi. Find the network you're connected to and click Manage known networks.

Select the network name, then click Properties. Scroll down to the Security type section and toggle Show next to the password field. Your WiFi password will appear in plain text.

This method works only if you're already connected to the network. If you've forgotten the password and lost connection, you'll need to use one of the other methods below.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows Settings shows your password if you're already connected to the network — just toggle "Show" in the WiFi properties.
  • Command Prompt can retrieve passwords for networks you've connected to before, even if you're not currently online.
  • If you can't remember the password and have no saved connection, you'll need to reset it on your router or contact your internet provider.
  • The password field in Settings is hidden by default for security, but toggling "Show" displays it in plain text on your own device.

Using Command Prompt to find saved passwords

If you're not currently connected to the network, Command Prompt can show passwords for any network your computer has connected to before. Press the Windows key, type "cmd", right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

Type this command exactly: netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear — replace "YourNetworkName" with the actual name of your WiFi network. Press Enter. Look for the line that says Key Content; the password appears right after it.

This only works for networks your computer has connected to in the past. If the network name doesn't appear when you run the command, your device has no saved connection to retrieve.

Finding the password on your router

If you can't retrieve the password from Windows, you can find it on the router itself. Look for a sticker on the back or bottom of your router — it usually shows the network name (SSID) and the default password printed together. The password may be labeled as "Key", "Passphrase", or "WiFi Password".

If the sticker is missing or worn away, you can 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. When prompted, enter the username and password — these are often both "admin" unless you changed them. Look for a section labeled WiFi Settings, Wireless, or Security to find the password.

Different router brands use different layouts, so the exact steps vary. If you don't know the admin password, you may need to reset the router to factory settings, which erases all custom settings and returns it to the default password on the sticker.

Resetting your password if you've lost it completely

If you can't find the password anywhere, you can reset it through your router. Most routers have a small reset button on the back that you hold down for 10 to 15 seconds while the device is powered on. This returns the router to its factory settings and restores the default password printed on the sticker.

Resetting the router will disconnect all devices currently using the network and erase any custom settings you've made, such as a custom network name or security settings. After the reset, you'll need to reconnect all your devices using the default password, then change the password to something new if you want to.

If you're renting and the router belongs to your internet provider, contact them before resetting — they may need to reconfigure it for your account.

Why Windows hides the password by default

Windows keeps the password hidden in Settings to prevent someone from seeing it if they gain brief access to your computer. If you step away from your desk and someone else sits down, they won't be able to read the password off your screen. The "Show" toggle lets you reveal it only when you need it.

This is why the password field appears as dots or asterisks until you toggle it on. It's a small security measure, not a barrier — anyone with admin access to your computer can retrieve the password through Command Prompt or Settings regardless.

What to do if you share a network with others

If you're on a shared network — at work, in a dorm, or in a rental — ask the network owner or administrator for the password rather than trying to retrieve it yourself. Retrieving a password you didn't set may violate the network's terms or your lease agreement.

If you're the network owner and need to change the password because you think someone has it, log into your router's admin panel and look for WiFi Settings or Security. Change the password to something new, then reconnect your devices. The old password will stop working when ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see the password if I'm not connected to the network?

Yes, if your computer has connected to it before. Use Command Prompt with the netsh wlan show profile command to retrieve saved passwords. If your computer has never connected, you'll need to find the password on the router itself or contact the network owner.

What if the Command Prompt command doesn't show the password?

The command may not display the password if the network uses an older security standard or if your computer doesn't have admin rights. Try the Settings method instead, or check the router's sticker or admin panel. You can also reset the router to restore the default password.

Is it safe to show the password on my screen?

It's safe if you're alone and your device is find. The "Show" toggle is meant for your own use — don't leave it visible if others can see your screen. Once you've written down or copied the password, toggle it back to hidden.

Will resetting the router delete my internet connection?

Resetting the router returns it to factory settings, which may require your internet provider to reconfigure it for your account. Contact your provider before resetting if the router belongs to them. If you own the router, resetting it won't delete your internet service, but you'll need to reconnect and reconfigure it.

Can I change my WiFi password without knowing the old one?

Yes. Log into your router's admin panel at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1, find the WiFi settings, and change the password. You don't need the old password to set a new one — you only need access to the router itself.