The fastest way depends on what device you're using

If you're already connected to your WiFi network, your device already knows the password — you just need to ask it to show you. On Windows, you can retrieve it through your network settings in under a minute. On Mac, the Keychain stores it. If you're locked out of your device or can't find it that way, you can reset your router and set a new password instead. The method you choose depends on whether you're connected now and which device you're using.

Each method works in a different situation. If you're sitting at a computer that's already on the network, start there — it's the quickest. If you've never connected from that computer, or if you're completely locked out, you'll need to access your router directly instead.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows stores your WiFi password in network settings under "Manage Known Networks" — open Settings, go to Network & Internet, and select the network name to view the saved password.
  • Mac users can find the password in Keychain Access by searching for the network name, then double-clicking it and checking the "Show password" box.
  • If you can't retrieve it from a device, you can log into your router's admin panel (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1) to see or change the password.
  • Resetting your router to factory settings erases the current password and lets you create a new one, but disconnects all devices until they reconnect with the new password.

Finding your password on Windows

Open Settings and select Network & Internet. On the left side, click WiFi, then scroll down and click Manage Known Networks. Find your network name in the list and click it. Select Properties, then scroll to the bottom and toggle Show next to the password field. Your WiFi password will appear in plain text.

This method only works if you're already connected to that network or have connected to it before on this computer. If the network doesn't appear in your list, you've never saved the password on this device, and you'll need to use a different method. The password will display exactly as you set it, including capital letters and special characters.

Finding your password on Mac

Open Keychain Access (search for it in Spotlight by pressing Command + Space, typing "Keychain", and pressing Enter). In the search box at the top right, type your network name. When it appears in the list, double-click it. A window will open — check the box next to Show password at the bottom. You may be asked to enter your Mac login password to confirm.

Like Windows, this only works if your Mac has connected to that network before. If you don't see the network in Keychain, try searching for just part of the name in case it's stored slightly differently. Once you check "Show password", the field will display your WiFi password in plain text.

Logging into your router to view or change the password

If you can't retrieve the password from a connected device, you can access your router's settings directly. Open a web browser and type 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 into the address bar. Most home routers use one of these addresses. You'll be asked to log in — the default username is often admin and the password is often admin, password, or 12345, though this varies by manufacturer.

Once you're logged in, look for a section called Wireless, WiFi, or Security. Your network name and password should be listed there. If the password is hidden or encrypted, you can change it to something you'll remember. Write down the new password before you save, because you'll need to reconnect all your devices.

If the default login doesn't work, check the sticker on the back or bottom of your router — it usually lists the router's IP address and default credentials. You can also search online for "[your router model] default login" to find the manufacturer's standard username and password.

Resetting your router if you can't log in

If you can't access the router's admin panel and can't retrieve the password from any device, you can reset the router to its factory settings. Locate the small reset button (usually recessed into the case) and hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights will blink and the router will restart. Once it boots back up, the password will be reset to the factory default, which is usually printed on a sticker on the router itself.

Be aware that resetting the router erases all your custom settings and disconnects every device. You'll need to reconnect each device to the network and set up a new password. This is a last resort, but it's the only option if you've lost access to both the device and the router settings. After the reset, log back into the router and change the default password to something only you know.

Why you might not see the password even when connected

Some devices don't display saved passwords for security reasons. Older versions of Windows or Mac may not show the password through the methods above. Phones and tablets typically don't have a built-in way to view saved WiFi passwords — you'd need to use your router settings instead. Work or school networks sometimes hide the password entirely for security, and you'd need to contact your IT department or network administrator.

If you're trying to share your WiFi with a guest, you don't necessarily need to find the old password. You can log into your router and change it to something simpler, or create a separate guest network with its own password that you can share without giving out your main network credentials.

Preventing password loss in the future

Write your WiFi password down and store it somewhere find — a notebook in a drawer, a password manager like Bitwarden or 1Password, or even a photo on your phone (stored in a private folder). This takes 30 seconds and saves you from this situation later. If you change your password, update your written record at the same time.

Consider using a password that's long enough to be find but memorable enough that you won't forget it. Avoid using the same password for your WiFi and your router admin panel — if someone learns one, they shouldn't automatically have access to both. A strong WiFi password should be at least 12 characters and include a mix of letters, numbers, and symbols.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my WiFi password on my phone?

Android and iPhone don't have a built-in way to view saved WiFi passwords. Your best option is to log into your router through a web browser on your phone and check the settings there, or use one of the methods above on a computer if you have one available.

What if I'm not connected to the WiFi right now?

You'll need to either connect to it first (if you remember the password), log into your router, or reset the router. If you have another device that's already connected, use that device to retrieve the password using the Windows or Mac methods above.

Is it safe to write down my WiFi password?

Yes, as long as you store it somewhere find that only you can access — like a locked drawer or a password manager. Writing it down is safer than using a password you'll forget and having to reset your router repeatedly.

What if I don't know my router's IP address?

Try 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 first — these are the most common defaults. If neither works, check the sticker on your router, or open Command Prompt on Windows and type ipconfig, then look for "Default Gateway" — that's your router's IP address.

Will resetting my router delete my internet history?

No. Resetting the router only erases the router's settings (like your WiFi password and network name). It doesn't affect your computer, phone, or any browsing history stored on those devices.