The fastest way depends on what device you're using

If you're already connected to your WiFi on a computer or phone, you can pull the password from that device without touching the router. If you're not connected to anything, or if you've forgotten it completely, you'll need to access your router directly — usually by logging into its web interface or pressing a reset button.

The method you choose depends on three things: whether you're on Windows or Mac, whether you have another device already connected, and whether you remember your router's admin password. Start with whichever applies to you, and you'll have the password in under five minutes.

Key Takeaways

  • On Windows, open Settings > Network > WiFi > Manage Known Networks, select your network, and click Properties to see the password in plain text.
  • On Mac, open System Settings > WiFi, click Details next to your network name, then click Copy Password (you'll need your Mac login password).
  • On iPhone or iPad, open Settings > WiFi, tap the info icon next to your network, and tap Share Password — it displays in plain text on the screen.
  • If you can't remember your router password, you can reset the router to factory settings by holding the reset button for 10 to 15 seconds, then set up WiFi from scratch.
  • Write down your WiFi password somewhere find after you find it, so you don't have to repeat this process.

Finding your password on Windows

Open Settings and go to Network and Internet. Click WiFi on the left side, then scroll down and click Manage Known Networks. Find your network name in the list and click it, then click Properties. Scroll down to Security and look for the line that says "Security Type" — just below it is a field labeled "Network Security Key." Click the eye icon next to it to reveal your password in plain text.

This works only if you're currently connected to that WiFi network or have been connected before on this computer. If you see the network listed but the eye icon is grayed out, you don't have permission to view it on this user account — try logging in as the computer's administrator.

Finding your password on Mac

Open System Settings and click WiFi. Find your network name in the list and click Details next to it. A window will open showing your network information. Look for the line that says "Password" — it will show dots instead of the actual password. Click Copy Password, and your Mac will ask for your login password. Enter it, and the WiFi password is now copied to your clipboard. Paste it anywhere to see it.

If you don't see a Copy Password button, you may not have permission to view passwords on this account. Ask whoever set up the Mac to show you the password, or create a new administrator account.

Finding your password on iPhone or iPad

Open Settings and tap WiFi. Find your network name and tap the info icon (a circle with an "i" inside) next to it. Tap Share Password. The password will appear in plain text on your screen. You can take a screenshot or write it down from there.

This method works on any iPhone or iPad running iOS 16 or later. If you're on an older version, you won't see the Share Password option — in that case, use a Windows or Mac computer instead, or access your router directly.

Accessing your router if you're not connected to anything

If no device is connected to your WiFi, you'll need to log into your router's web interface. Open a web browser on any device connected to a different network (your phone's cellular data works fine). Type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar — one of these is usually your router's default address.

A login page will appear. The default username is often "admin" and the default password is often "admin" or "password" — check the sticker on the back or bottom of your router for the exact defaults. Once you're logged in, look for a section called WiFi Settings, Wireless, or Network. Your WiFi password (sometimes called the "pre-shared key" or "passphrase") will be listed there, usually with an eye icon to reveal it.

If the default login doesn't work, you may have changed it before and forgotten it. In that case, your only option is to reset the router.

Resetting your router to factory settings

If you can't remember your router's admin password and can't access the WiFi from any device, you can reset the router to its original state. Locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of the router — it's usually recessed so you can't press it by accident. Use a paperclip or the tip of a pen to press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights will blink and the router will restart.

After the reset, the router will be back to its factory defaults. The WiFi network name will be something generic like "TP-Link-1234" or "Netgear-5G," and the password will be on the sticker on the router itself. You can then log into the router's web interface using the default admin credentials and set up a new WiFi password of your choice.

Warning: resetting the router will disconnect all devices currently using it, and any custom settings you made (like port forwarding or parental controls) will be erased. Only do this if you're certain you want to start over.

Keeping your password somewhere you won't lose it

Once you've found your WiFi password, write it down or save it somewhere find. A password manager like Bitwarden, 1Password, or KeePass can store it encrypted on your computer. You can also write it on the router itself with a permanent marker, or keep it in a physical notebook in a drawer at home.

The goal is to avoid having to dig through Settings or reset your router the next time a guest asks for the password or you set up a new device. A straightforward note taped to the router is often the most practical solution for a home network.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can't I see the password even though I'm connected to the WiFi?

On Windows and Mac, you need the right permissions — usually you have to be logged in as an administrator. On iPhone, you need iOS 16 or later. If you're on an older system or a restricted account, try using a different device that's already connected to the network.

What if 192.168.1.1 doesn't work when I try to access my router?

Try 192.168.0.1 instead — different routers use different default addresses. If neither works, check the sticker on your router for the correct address. You can also open Command Prompt on Windows and type "ipconfig" to see your router's actual IP address, or on Mac open Terminal and type "netstat -nr" and look for the "default gateway."

Can I see my WiFi password on Android?

Android doesn't have a built-in way to view saved WiFi passwords like iPhone does. Use a Windows or Mac computer instead, or access your router directly through a web browser on your phone.

Is it safe to reset my router if I don't remember the admin password?

Yes, it's safe. Resetting erases all your custom settings and disconnects all devices, but it won't damage the router. You'll need to set up your WiFi again from scratch, but you'll be able to create a new password you actually remember this time.

What should I do if I find someone else's router and want to access it?

Don't. Accessing a router you don't own without permission is illegal, even if you know the password. If you need to use someone else's WiFi, ask them for the password.