Where your WiFi password lives on your device

Your device stores your WiFi password the moment you connect to a network. You do not need to contact your internet provider or dig through paperwork — the password is already saved in your operating system. The steps to find it depend on whether you use Windows, Mac, iPhone, or Android.

The fastest route is usually your phone or computer that is currently connected to the network. If you have forgotten the password and need to connect a new device, you can retrieve it from any device that already has access.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows stores WiFi passwords in Settings under Network and Internet, where you can view the password in plain text after selecting your network.
  • Mac users can find saved passwords in Keychain Access by searching for the network name, then copying the password from the Show Password field.
  • iPhone and iPad do not display saved passwords directly, but you can share the network with another Apple device without typing the password again.
  • Android phones show saved passwords in Settings under WiFi, though the exact path varies by manufacturer and Android version.
  • If you cannot find the password on any device, you can reset it through your router's admin panel or contact your internet provider for a replacement.

Finding your password on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Open Settings and go to Network and Internet. Select WiFi, then choose Manage Known Networks. Find the network name you are looking for and click on it. Select Properties, then scroll down to the Security section. Click Show next to the password field, and your WiFi password will appear in plain text.

If you do not see the network listed, it means your computer is not currently connected to it and has not saved it before. In that case, you will need to use a different device or reset the password through your router.

Finding your password on Mac

Open Keychain Access by pressing Command + Space, typing "Keychain Access," and pressing Enter. In the search box at the top right, type the name of your WiFi network. Double-click the network name when it appears in the results. A window will open showing the network details. Check the box next to Show Password at the bottom of the window. You may be asked to enter your Mac login password to confirm. Once you do, your WiFi password will display.

Keychain Access stores passwords for networks your Mac has connected to before. If the network does not appear in your search, your Mac has not saved it yet.

Finding your password on iPhone and iPad

Apple does not allow you to view saved WiFi passwords directly on iPhone or iPad through Settings. However, you can share your network with another Apple device without revealing the password. If you need the actual password to connect a non-Apple device, you will have to retrieve it from a Windows computer or Mac instead.

To share your network with another iPhone, iPad, or Mac: have the other person try to connect to your WiFi network, and a prompt will appear on your device asking if you want to share the password. Tap Share, and the connection will transfer to their device without displaying the password on screen.

Finding your password on Android

The steps vary depending on your phone manufacturer and Android version, but the general path is Settings > WiFi or Network and Internet > WiFi. Long-press or tap the network name you are connected to. Select Manage or Advanced Options. Look for a Password or Security section. Some Android phones show the password directly; others require you to tap Show Password or a similar option. You may need to enter your phone's PIN or use your fingerprint to confirm.

If your phone does not show the password in Settings, try opening your phone's file manager and navigating to Android > data > com.android.settings > files > wifi. This folder sometimes contains a file with saved network details, though the format varies by manufacturer.

Resetting your password through your router

If you cannot find the password on any of your devices, you can change it directly through your router. 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, but check your router's label or manual to be sure. Log in with your router's admin username and password, which is also printed on the router or in your manual. Navigate to WiFi Settings or Wireless Settings, and you can create a new password from there.

Once you change the password, all your devices will disconnect from the network. You will need to reconnect each one using the new password. Write down the new password somewhere safe before you make the change.

Contacting your internet provider

If you cannot access your router or do not remember the admin password, contact your internet provider. They can reset your router remotely or send you a replacement with a new default password. Have your account number and a photo ID ready when you call. The provider will verify your identity before making any changes to your account.

Most providers have customer service phone numbers on your bill or on their website. Some also offer chat or email support if you prefer not to call.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my WiFi password if I am not connected to the network?

No. Your device only stores passwords for networks it has connected to before. If you have never connected to a network, your device has no record of its password. You will need to retrieve the password from a device that is currently connected, or reset it through your router.

What if I forgot my router's admin password?

Most routers have a reset button on the back. Holding it for 10 to 15 seconds will restore the router to factory settings, including the default admin password printed on the router's label. This will erase all your custom settings, so use this only as a last resort.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with someone?

Yes, sharing your password with trusted people is safe. They can only access your network, not your personal files or other devices. If you later want to remove someone's access without changing the password for everyone, you can do that through your router's admin panel by blocking their device's MAC address.

Why does my phone not show the password even though it is connected?

iPhone and iPad intentionally hide saved passwords for security. Android phones usually show passwords in Settings, but some manufacturers customize this feature. If your Android phone does not display it, try the file manager method or retrieve the password from a Windows computer or Mac instead.

Can I recover a password if I reset my router?

No. Resetting your router erases all saved settings, including your WiFi password. The router will return to its factory default password, which is printed on the device. You will need to set up a new WiFi network and password from scratch.