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

If you're already connected to a WiFi network, you can retrieve the password from that device without needing to reset your router or contact your internet provider. The steps differ between Windows computers, Macs, iPhones, iPads, and Android phones — each stores the password in a different location and requires different steps to view it.

The fastest method is usually your computer, since Windows and Mac both let you see the actual password in plain text. Phones and tablets can confirm you're connected but typically don't display the password itself — instead, they let you share it directly with another device, which is often more practical anyway.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows computers store WiFi passwords in Settings under Network and Internet, where you can view the password in plain text without needing admin access.
  • Mac computers require you to open Keychain Access and search for your network name, then check a box to reveal the password.
  • iPhones and iPads don't display the password itself, but you can share it directly to another Apple device by holding the device nearby.
  • Android phones show that you're connected but don't display the password; instead, you can generate a QR code to share the network with another device.
  • If you can't find the password on any device, you'll need to reset your router to factory settings, which erases all custom settings.

Finding your password on Windows

Open Settings and go to Network and Internet, then select WiFi from the left menu. Scroll down and click Manage known networks, then find your network name in the list and click it. Select Forget, then go back and reconnect to the network — Windows will ask you to enter the password again, and this time you can see it by clicking the eye icon next to the password field.

Alternatively, if you don't want to forget and reconnect, you can view the password through Command Prompt. Right-click the Start menu, select Windows Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin), then type this command exactly: netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear — replace "YourNetworkName" with your actual network name. The password appears next to Key Content in the results.

If you see "Access Denied" in Command Prompt, you may need administrator rights on your account. Ask whoever set up the computer to run the command for you, or use the Settings method instead.

Finding your password on Mac

Open Keychain Access 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 to open the details window.

Check the box next to Show password near the bottom of the window. Your Mac will ask you to confirm your login password — enter it, and the WiFi password will appear in plain text. You can now copy it or write it down.

Sharing your password from iPhone or iPad

iPhones and iPads don't show the password itself, but they can share it when ready with another Apple device. Have the other person bring their iPhone, iPad, or Mac close to yours while they're trying to connect to the same network. A prompt will appear on your screen asking if you want to share the password — tap Share Password, and their device will receive it automatically without you typing anything.

If you need the password in text form, you'll need to retrieve it from a Windows or Mac computer instead. iPhones and iPads have no built-in way to display the password as text.

Sharing your password from Android

Android phones don't display the password either, but most can generate a QR code that another device can scan to connect. Open Settings, go to Network and Internet or WiFi (exact names vary by manufacturer), find your connected network in the list, and look for an option like Share, QR Code, or a gear icon next to the network name.

Tap that option and a QR code will appear on your screen. The other person can open their phone's camera app, point it at the code, and tap the notification that appears — their phone will connect automatically. If your Android phone doesn't have a QR code option, you'll need to retrieve the password from a Windows or Mac computer.

What to do if you can't find the password on any device

If no connected device will show you the password, your only option is to reset your router to factory settings. This erases all your custom settings, including the password you created, and returns the router to the default password that came with it — usually printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the router.

To reset, locate the small reset button (usually recessed so you need a paperclip or pin to press it) on the back of the router. Hold it down for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights will flash and the router will restart. Once it's back online, you can log in with the default password, create a new network name and password, and reconnect your devices.

Before you reset, check whether anyone else in your household might be using the network — they'll lose connection and will need the new password to reconnect.

Why you might not remember your password

Most people set a WiFi password once and never type it again — phones and computers remember it automatically. If you set it months or years ago, it's normal to have forgotten it. The methods above let you recover it without losing any settings or having to contact your internet provider.

If you change your password regularly for security reasons, write the new one down in a safe place, or use a password manager to store it. That way you'll always have it available if you need to give it to a guest or connect a new device.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

No — you can only retrieve a password from a device that's currently connected to that network. If you're not connected, you'll need to reset the router or retrieve the password from another device that is connected.

Will viewing my password on my computer affect my WiFi connection?

No. Viewing or sharing the password doesn't change anything about your connection or your network settings. You can look it up as many times as you need without any impact.

What if I forgot the password and no devices are connected?

You'll need to reset your router to factory settings using the reset button on the back. This erases your custom password and returns the router to its default password, which is usually on a sticker attached to the device.

Can I see my WiFi password if I'm using a guest network?

Guest networks work the same way — if you're connected to one, you can retrieve its password using the same steps for your device type. The password is stored separately from your main network password.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with someone?

Yes, sharing your password with guests or family members is safe. If you later want to prevent someone from connecting, you can change your password in your router's settings, which will disconnect them and require the new password to reconnect.