Where your network password lives on your device

Your device already knows your WiFi password — it has to, or it couldn't connect. Windows, Mac, iPhone, and Android all store this information, and you can retrieve it without calling your internet provider or resetting your router. The steps differ by device type, but the password is always there.

The fastest route depends on what you're trying to do. If you need to connect a new device, you can usually read the password directly from the device you're already using. If you've forgotten it completely and can't access any connected device, you'll need to reset your router itself.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows stores your WiFi password in Settings under Network and can display it in plain text if you're logged in as an administrator.
  • Mac users can find the password in Keychain Access by searching for their network name and checking the "Show password" box.
  • iPhone and Android don't display stored passwords directly, but you can share the network to another device or use a QR code instead of typing it.
  • If you can't remember the password on any device, you'll need to reset your router using the physical reset button or the manufacturer's app.
  • Your router's default password (usually printed on the device itself) is different from your WiFi password and won't help you recover it.

Finding your password on Windows 10 and 11

Open Settings and go to Network and Internet, then WiFi. Select "Manage known networks" and click on the network name you want the password for. Click "Properties" and scroll down to find "Security type" and "Security key." The security key field will show dots instead of letters at first.

Click "Show" next to the security key field. Windows will ask you to confirm you're the account owner — enter your Windows password if prompted. The WiFi password will appear in plain text. Write it down or take a screenshot before closing the window.

If you don't see a "Show" button, you're not logged in as an administrator. Ask whoever set up the computer to follow these steps instead, or contact your IT department if this is a work device.

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 your network name exactly as it appears in your WiFi list. A result labeled with your network name and "AirPort" should appear.

Double-click that result to open it. A window will pop up showing network details. Check the box next to "Show password" near the bottom. Mac will ask for your login password — enter it. Your WiFi password will appear in the password field.

If nothing appears in the search, your network information may not be stored in Keychain. Try restarting your Mac and connecting to the network again, then repeat these steps.

Finding your password on iPhone and iPad

iPhones and iPads don't display stored WiFi passwords in Settings. Instead, go to Settings, then WiFi, tap the information icon (i) next to your network name, and look for "Password" — it will show dots, not the actual password.

The practical workaround is to share your network with another device. On the iPhone that's connected, go to Settings, WiFi, tap the information icon next to your network, and select "Share Password." Hold another iPhone or iPad nearby — it will receive a prompt to join. Accept it, and the password transfers without ever being displayed as text.

If you need the password as text for a non-Apple device, use a Mac or Windows computer instead. You can also ask your internet provider to send you a password reset link, though this requires access to the email address on your account.

Finding your password on Android

Android doesn't show stored WiFi passwords in Settings the way Windows does. Go to Settings, then WiFi, long-press your network name, and select "Manage." You'll see network details, but the password field shows dots.

The easiest option is to generate a QR code instead. In the same network details screen, look for a QR code icon or "Share" option. Tap it to display a QR code that another device can scan to join the network without typing the password. This works with iPhones, other Android phones, and most laptops.

If you need the password as text, use a connected Windows or Mac computer to retrieve it using the steps above. Android doesn't provide a built-in way to view the password itself.

Resetting your password if you can't find it anywhere

If you don't have access to any connected device, you'll need to reset your router. Locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of your router — it's usually recessed so you can't press it by accident. Use a paperclip or the tip of a pen to hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on.

The router will restart and return to factory settings. This erases your current WiFi password and network name. When it comes back online, look for the default network name and password printed on a sticker on the router itself — usually on the bottom or back. Use those to connect.

After connecting, you can set a new network name and password through the router's admin panel. Open a web browser and go to 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 (check the sticker for the exact address). Log in with the default username and password from the sticker, then look for WiFi settings or Wireless settings to create a new password.

Why your router password is different from your WiFi password

Your router has two separate passwords. The WiFi password (also called the network key or pre-shared key) is what guests and devices use to connect to your internet. The router password (or admin password) is what you use to log into the router's settings to change that WiFi password.

Both are usually printed on the sticker on your router. If you've changed your WiFi password but forgotten it, the router password won't help you recover it — you'll still need to reset the router. If you've changed the router password and forgotten that, you'll need to reset the router to access its settings again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my WiFi password if I'm not the admin on this computer?

No. Windows and Mac both require administrator access to display stored passwords. Ask the person who set up the computer, or use a different device that's already connected to the network to retrieve the password instead.

What if I reset my router and now I can't remember the new password I created?

You'll need to reset the router again using the physical reset button. This will erase your custom password and return the router to factory settings. You can then set a new password through the admin panel. Write it down this time, or store it in a password manager.

Does resetting my router delete my internet service?

No. Resetting the router only erases the WiFi settings you created. Your internet connection from your provider will still work — you just need to reconnect to the router using the default password from the sticker, then create a new WiFi password.

Can I retrieve my password from my internet provider?

Your provider doesn't store your WiFi password — only your router does. However, some providers offer apps that let you manage your router remotely, and those apps may display the password. Check your provider's website or call their support line to see if this option is available for your account.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with someone?

Yes, sharing your password is safe. The password only grants access to your WiFi network, not to your files or accounts. If you want to remove someone's access later, you can change the WiFi password through your router settings, and they'll be disconnected.