Where to find your WiFi password on each device

Your WiFi password is stored on the device you used to connect to the network. Windows computers, Macs, iPhones, and Android phones all keep this information, but each one hides it in a different place. The steps depend on what device you're using and what operating system it runs.

You cannot see the password from a device that has never connected to that WiFi network. If you need the password for a new device, you'll need to retrieve it from one that's already connected, or reset your router to its factory default password and set up a new one.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows stores WiFi passwords in the network settings under "Manage Known Networks," where you can view the password in plain text after clicking "Show."
  • Mac users can find the password in Keychain Access by searching for the network name, then checking the "Show password" box after entering their Mac login password.
  • iPhone and iPad do not display saved WiFi passwords in settings, but you can share the password directly to another Apple device without seeing it yourself.
  • Android phones show the WiFi password in Settings under Network and Internet, though the exact path varies by manufacturer and Android version.
  • If you cannot find the password on any device, you can reset your router to factory defaults and create a new password, though this disconnects all devices temporarily.

Viewing your WiFi password on Windows 10 and 11

Open Settings and go to Network and Internet, then select WiFi. Click "Manage Known Networks" and find the network name you're looking for. Click on it, then select "Properties."

Scroll down to the "Security" section. You'll see a field labeled "Network security key." This field is hidden by default. Check the box next to "Show" to reveal your password in plain text. You must be logged into Windows with an account that has administrator rights to see this information.

If you don't see "Manage Known Networks," you may be on an older version of Windows 10. Instead, go to Settings > Network and Internet > WiFi > Manage WiFi Settings, then look for "Manage Known Networks" in that menu.

Viewing your WiFi password on Mac

Open Spotlight search by pressing Command + Space, then type "Keychain Access" and press Enter. This opens the Keychain Access process, which stores passwords on your Mac.

In the search box at the top right, type the name of your WiFi network. When the network appears in the list, double-click it. A window will open showing network details. Check the box labeled "Show password" near the bottom. Your Mac will ask you to enter your login password to confirm. Type it in and click "Allow." Your WiFi password will now appear in the password field.

Viewing your WiFi password on iPhone and iPad

iPhones and iPads do not show saved WiFi passwords in the Settings app. Apple designed it this way for security — the password stays hidden even from you. However, you can share the password with another Apple device without ever seeing it yourself.

If you need the password on a non-Apple device, you'll have to retrieve it from a Windows computer or Mac using the steps above, or reset your router. To share the password between Apple devices, have the other device attempt to connect to the network. When the password prompt appears on that device, hold your connected iPhone or iPad nearby. A notification will appear asking if you want to share the password. Tap "Share Password" and the connection will complete automatically.

Viewing your WiFi password on Android

Open Settings and go to Network and Internet (or Connections, depending on your phone's manufacturer). Tap WiFi or WiFi Settings. Find your connected network in the list and tap and hold on it, or look for a settings icon next to the network name.

A menu will appear. Look for an option like "Manage," "View," or "Details." Tap it. You should see a QR code and, below it, the network password in plain text. Some Android phones show the password only after you tap "Show password" or enter your device PIN.

The exact steps vary widely between Samsung, Google Pixel, OnePlus, and other manufacturers. If you cannot find the password using these steps, search your phone's Settings for "WiFi" and look for a "Saved Networks" or "Manage Networks" option.

What to do if you cannot find the password anywhere

If no connected device will show you the password, you can reset your router to its factory default settings. This erases your current WiFi network and password, and you'll need to set up a new network from scratch. All devices currently connected to that network will be disconnected and will need to reconnect using the new password.

To reset your router, locate the small reset button on the back or bottom of the device. Use a paperclip or pen to press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The lights will blink and the router will restart. Once it boots up, connect to the default network name (usually printed on the router's label) using the default password (also on the label). Then log into the router's admin page to create a new network name and password.

This approach should be your last resort, because it affects everyone using that network. If other people depend on the WiFi, let them know before you reset it.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Apple hides WiFi passwords on iPhones and iPads for security. The password is stored in a protected area you cannot access directly. If you need the password for another device, retrieve it from a Mac or Windows computer instead, or use the password-sharing feature between Apple devices.

Do I need a special app to view my WiFi password?

No. Windows, Mac, iPhone, iPad, and Android all have built-in tools to view or share your password. You do not need to read anything. Be cautious of apps claiming to show your password — they often cannot access this information and may be unsafe.

What if I forgot my router's admin password?

If you cannot log into your router's settings page, you can reset the router to factory defaults using the reset button. This will erase your current WiFi network and password, and you'll set up a new one. There is no way to recover the old admin password without resetting.

Can I view my WiFi password from a guest device?

No. Only devices that have already connected to the network can show you the password. A device that has never joined that WiFi network cannot access the stored password. You must use a device that is currently connected or has been connected in the past.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password with someone?

Sharing your password is safe if you trust the person. They will be able to use your internet connection, but they cannot see other devices on your network or access files on your computer unless you've specifically shared them. If you want to remove someone's access later, change your WiFi password and reconnect your own devices.