Where to find your WiFi password depends on what device you're using

Your WiFi password is stored in different places depending on whether you're on Windows, Mac, iPhone, or Android. The fastest route is usually your router itself — most routers have a sticker on the back with the default password printed on it. If you've changed the password since setup, you'll need to check your device's network settings or log into the router's admin panel. The method takes five to ten minutes on any device.

If you've forgotten the password entirely and can't find it anywhere, you can reset the router to factory settings, which restores the default password from that sticker. This disconnects all your devices temporarily, so it's worth trying the device-based methods first.

Key Takeaways

  • Check the sticker on the back or bottom of your router first — most routers print the default WiFi password there.
  • On Windows, open Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi > Manage Known Networks, select your network, and click Properties to reveal the saved password.
  • On Mac, open System Settings > WiFi, select your network, click Details, and check the password field (you may need to enter your computer password).
  • On iPhone and Android, you cannot view a saved WiFi password through settings, but you can reset the router or log into the router's admin panel from any browser.
  • If you've lost the password completely, resetting the router to factory settings restores the default password but temporarily disconnects all devices.

Finding your password on Windows

On Windows 10 or 11, the easiest path is through Settings. Click the Start button, type "Settings," and open it. Go to Network & Internet, then WiFi on the left side. Under "Manage known networks," you'll see a list of every WiFi network your computer has ever connected to — click the one you want the password for.

A new window opens. Click the "Properties" button at the bottom. Scroll down to the "Security type" section and look for a field labeled "Security key." The password is hidden by default, but click "Show" next to it and Windows will display the full password in plain text. You may need to enter your Windows password to confirm.

If you don't see the network listed, it means your computer has never connected to it before, and you'll need to try another method.

Finding your password on Mac

On Mac, open System Settings (or System Preferences on older versions) and click WiFi on the left side. Find your network name in the list, then click the "Details" button next to it. A window opens showing network information — the password field is there, but it's hidden by default.

Click the eye icon next to the password field to reveal it. Mac will ask you to enter your computer password to confirm. Once you do, the WiFi password appears in plain text. If you don't see an eye icon, try clicking directly in the password field itself.

Like Windows, this method only works if your Mac has connected to that network before. If it hasn't, you'll need to check the router or try another device.

Finding your password on iPhone and Android

iPhone and Android do not let you view a saved WiFi password through their settings — Apple and Google intentionally hide this for security reasons. If you're connected to the network and need the password to share with someone else, you have two options: log into your router's admin panel from any browser, or use your router's app if the manufacturer provides one.

To log into the router, open a web browser on any device and type the router's IP address (usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — check your router's sticker). Enter the admin username and password (also on the sticker, often "admin" and "admin" or "admin" and the WiFi password). Once logged in, look for a section called "Wireless," "WiFi," or "Network Settings" — the password is listed there.

Some router manufacturers like TP-Link, Netgear, and Linksys offer mobile apps that show the WiFi password directly. Search your phone's app store for your router brand and install the official app — it usually displays the password without needing to log into the admin panel.

Checking the router sticker first

Before trying any of these methods, look at the physical router. Most routers have a sticker on the back, bottom, or side that lists the WiFi network name (SSID) and the default password. The sticker usually says "WiFi Password," "Network Key," or "Security Key" next to a string of letters and numbers.

If the password on the sticker doesn't work, it means someone changed it after the router was set up. In that case, you'll need to use one of the device-based methods above or log into the router's admin panel. The sticker password is only the factory default.

Resetting the router if you've lost the password completely

If you can't find the password anywhere and none of your devices have it saved, you can reset the router to factory settings. This restores the default password from the sticker, but it also disconnects every device from WiFi temporarily and erases any custom settings you've made.

To reset, locate the small reset button on the router (usually recessed so you need a paperclip or pin to press it). 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's back online, use the default password from the sticker to reconnect all your devices.

After reconnecting, you can set a new password by logging into the router's admin panel (the IP address and login are on the sticker). This is a good time to create a strong password you'll actually remember.

What to do if you still can't find it

If the sticker is missing or unreadable and you can't access any of the methods above, contact your internet service provider. They have records of the router they issued to you and can tell you the default password or reset it remotely. Have your account number ready when you call.

If the router is yours (not provided by your ISP), check any paperwork or emails from when you bought it. Many manufacturers send setup instructions with the password included. You can also search the router's model number online — manufacturer websites often have default password lists for each model.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No. Windows and Mac can only show passwords for networks they've connected to before. If your device has never joined that network, the password won't be stored. You'll need to check the router sticker or log into the router's admin panel instead.

What if the password on the sticker doesn't work?

Someone changed it after the router was set up. Try the Windows or Mac methods if you have a device that's currently connected. If not, reset the router to factory settings using the recessed reset button, which restores the sticker password.

Do I need the admin password to see the WiFi password?

On Windows and Mac, you need your computer password, not the router admin password. If you're logging into the router's web panel, you'll need the admin credentials, which are usually "admin" and "admin" or printed on the sticker.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password?

Yes, sharing your WiFi password is safe. The password only controls access to your network — it doesn't expose your personal files or accounts. If you want to remove someone's access later, change the password through the router's admin panel.

Why can't I see the password on my iPhone or Android?

Apple and Google hide saved WiFi passwords in their operating systems for security. If your phone is stolen, someone can't easily extract all your passwords. You can still view it by logging into the router's admin panel from any browser.