Where your WiFi password lives on each device

Your WiFi password is stored on the device you used to connect to the network. If you forgot the password itself, you can retrieve it from any device that is already connected — you do not need to know it to look it up. The steps differ by operating system, so find the one you are using below.

If you cannot find the password on any of your devices, or if none of them are connected to the network, your last option is to reset the router itself. That erases all your WiFi settings and requires you to set up the network from scratch, which is covered at the end of this guide.

Key Takeaways

  • Any device already connected to your WiFi can show you the password — you do not need to remember it to retrieve it.
  • On Windows, open Settings, go to Network, select your WiFi network name, and click "Show" next to the password field.
  • On Mac, open Keychain Access, search for your network name, double-click it, check "Show password", and enter your computer password when prompted.
  • On iPhone and iPad, go to Settings, tap WiFi, select your network, and tap the info icon to see the password.
  • On Android, the process varies by phone maker, but usually involves Settings > Network > WiFi, then tapping your network name and looking for a password or QR code option.

Finding your password on Windows 10 and 11

Open Settings by pressing the Windows key and typing "Settings", then press Enter. Click "Network and internet" on the left side. Under "WiFi", click "Manage known networks" or "WiFi" depending on your Windows version.

Find your network name in the list and click it. A window will open showing network details. Look for a field labeled "Password" or "Network security key". Click the eye icon or the word "Show" next to it. Windows will ask you to enter your computer password — this is the password you use to log into your computer, not your WiFi password. Type it and click "OK". Your WiFi password will now appear on the screen.

If you do not see a password field, your network may be set to open (no password). If your network name does not appear in the list, your computer is not currently connected to it, and you will need to use a different device.

Finding your password on Mac

Open Spotlight by pressing Command and Space together, type "Keychain Access", and press Enter. In the window that opens, make sure "Passwords" is selected in the left sidebar. In the search box at the top right, type your WiFi network name exactly as it appears.

When your network appears in the list, double-click it. A details window will open. Check the box next to "Show password" near the bottom. Your Mac will ask you to enter your computer password. Type it and click "Allow". Your WiFi password will now appear in the password field.

If nothing appears in the search, your Mac is not connected to that network and does not have the password stored. You will need to check a different device or reset your router.

Finding your password on iPhone and iPad

Open Settings and tap "WiFi" at the top of the list. Find your network name and tap the information icon — a small circle with an "i" inside it — to the right of the network name. The password will appear under "Password" at the top of the screen. Tap and hold the password field to copy it, or take a screenshot.

This method works on iOS 16 and newer. If you are using an older version of iOS, the password field may not be visible in Settings. In that case, you will need to check a Windows computer or Mac instead.

Finding your password on Android

The steps vary depending on your phone's manufacturer. On most phones, open Settings, tap "Network and internet" or "Connections", then tap "WiFi". Find your network name, tap and hold it, and look for an option that says "Share" or "QR code". Tap it to see your password or a QR code that contains the password.

On Samsung phones specifically, go to Settings > Connections > WiFi, tap your network name, tap "View", and enter your phone's PIN or biometric password. On Google Pixel phones, go to Settings > Network and internet > WiFi, tap your network, tap "Share", and your password will appear.

If you do not see a password option, your phone may not be connected to the network. Try connecting first, then follow the steps again.

What to do if no device shows the password

If none of your devices are connected to the network, or if you cannot find the password on any of them, you will need to reset your router. This erases all your WiFi settings, including the network name and password, and returns the router to factory defaults.

Locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of your router — it is usually recessed so you cannot 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 on the router will flash, and it will restart. This takes about two minutes.

Once the router restarts, you will see a default network name (often something like "TP-Link-1234" or "Netgear-WiFi") appear in your list of available networks. Connect to it using the default password, which is usually printed on a sticker on the router itself or in the router's manual. Once connected, you can set up a new network name and password through the router's setup page, which you reach by opening a web browser and typing the router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).

Why you might not see the password even when connected

Some devices do not display saved passwords for security reasons. Older versions of iOS and Android, for example, did not include a way to view saved WiFi passwords in Settings. If you are using an older phone or tablet, you may not be able to see the password on that device alone.

Additionally, if you set up the network on a different device — such as a guest who connected your phone to their WiFi — you will not have the password stored on your own device. In that case, you will need to ask the person who set up the network, or check one of their devices using the steps above.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Your device only stores the password after you have connected to the network at least once. If you have never connected, the password is not saved anywhere on that device. You will need to use a different device that is already connected, or reset your router.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with someone?

Yes, sharing your password with someone you trust is safe. They will be able to use your internet, but they will not be able to see other devices on your network or access your files unless you have specifically set up file sharing. If you want to revoke access later, you can change your WiFi password through your router's settings, which will disconnect anyone using the old password.

What if I see multiple networks with the same name?

This usually means your router is broadcasting both a 2.4 GHz and a 5 GHz network, or you have a mesh router system with multiple nodes. Both networks use the same password. Connect to whichever one has the stronger signal in your location. You can check signal strength by looking at the WiFi icon next to each network name in your settings.

Can I change my WiFi password from my phone?

Yes, but you will need to access your router's settings page through a web browser. Open Safari or Chrome, type your router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1), and log in with your router's admin username and password. This is different from your WiFi password and is often printed on the router itself. Once logged in, look for a WiFi settings or wireless settings section where you can change the password.

What should I do if I forgot my router's admin password?

Your only option is to reset the router to factory defaults using the reset button. This will erase your current WiFi password and network name, and you will need to set them up again from scratch. Write down your new password somewhere safe so you do not forget it again.