Where your WiFi password actually lives
Your WiFi password is stored in three places: inside your router itself, in your computer's memory if you've connected before, and possibly in a document your internet provider gave you. The fastest route depends on whether you remember connecting to the network and whether you can physically reach your router.
If you've never written down the password and can't find the paperwork, your router holds the original. If you've connected before on a laptop or desktop, that device remembers it even if you can't. A phone or tablet that's currently connected won't show you the password — it only stores it, not displays it.
Key Takeaways
- Your router's default password is printed on a sticker on the device itself, usually on the back or bottom.
- Windows computers store WiFi passwords in Settings under Network and can display them if you're logged in as an administrator.
- Mac computers show saved WiFi passwords through Keychain Access, which requires your login password to open.
- If you've forgotten the password and can't find it anywhere, you can reset your router to factory settings, though this erases all your custom settings.
- Your internet provider's paperwork often includes the default password, usually labeled "Network Key" or "WiFi Password".
Finding the password on the router itself
Every router has a sticker on it with the default WiFi network name and password printed directly on the device. Look on the back, bottom, or sides of your router — it's usually a white or silver label with black text. The password may be labeled "Network Key", "WiFi Password", "Security Key", or sometimes just "Key".
This is the password your internet provider set when they installed the router. If you've never changed it, this is your current password. If you changed it at some point and forgot the new one, this default password won't work anymore — you'll need to use one of the other methods below.
Write down exactly what you see, including capital and lowercase letters, numbers, and any special characters. WiFi passwords are case-sensitive, so a capital A is different from a lowercase a.
Retrieving a saved password on Windows
If you've connected to this WiFi network before on your Windows computer, the password is stored in your system. You'll need to be logged in as an administrator to view it.
Open Settings by pressing the Windows key and typing "Settings", then select it. Go to Network and Internet, then WiFi, then Manage Known Networks. Find your network name in the list and click it. Select Properties, then scroll down and toggle "Show" next to the password field. Windows will ask you to confirm your login password, then display the WiFi password in plain text.
If you don't see your network in the Manage Known Networks list, your computer has never connected to it, so this method won't work. Try the router method or the Mac method if you have access to another device that's connected.
Retrieving a saved password on Mac
Mac computers store WiFi passwords in Keychain Access, a built-in password manager. You'll need your Mac login password to open it.
Open Spotlight by pressing Command and Space, type "Keychain Access", and press Enter. In the search box at the top right, type your WiFi network name exactly as it appears. Double-click the network name when it appears in the list. A window will open showing network details. Check the box next to "Show password" — your Mac will ask for your login password. Enter it, and the WiFi password will appear in the password field.
If your network doesn't appear in Keychain Access, your Mac has never connected to it. You'll need to use the router method or ask someone with a connected device to retrieve it for you.
Finding the password in your provider's paperwork
When your internet provider installed your service, they usually left documentation with your account details. Look for a sheet of paper, a card, or a letter that came with your router or in the mail around the time you signed up.
The password is often on a separate card or sticker attached to the paperwork, or printed directly on an instruction sheet. It may be labeled "WiFi Password", "Network Key", "Security Key", or "Wireless Password". Some providers also print it on your bill or include it in your online account portal.
If you can't find the physical paperwork, log into your internet provider's website using your account number and password. Most providers have a section for account details or device settings where the WiFi password is listed. You may need to contact your provider's customer service to retrieve it if it's not in your online account.
Resetting your router to find the default password
If you've changed your WiFi password and forgotten it, and you can't retrieve it from a connected device, you can reset your router to its factory settings. This erases all your custom settings, including the password you created, and returns it to the default password printed on the sticker.
Locate the reset button on your router — it's usually a small, recessed button on the back or bottom. 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, indicating it's resetting. Wait two to three minutes for the router to restart completely.
Once it's back on, use the default password from the sticker to connect. You'll then need to set up your WiFi network again, including creating a new password. This process varies by router model, so check your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for specific instructions on setting up your network after a reset.
What to do if you still can't find it
If the sticker is missing or unreadable, no connected device is available, and you can't find your provider's paperwork, contact your internet provider's customer service. Have your account number ready. They can tell you the default password or reset your router remotely, then walk you through reconnecting.
If you own the router but don't remember your provider, check your internet bill or contact the company that installed it. The bill usually lists your internet service provider's name and customer service number. Some providers also allow you to reset your password through their website if you can verify your account.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see my WiFi password on my phone or tablet?
Android phones can display saved WiFi passwords if you go to Settings, then Network and Internet, then WiFi, long-press your network name, and select "Manage". iPhones and iPads do not display saved WiFi passwords in Settings, but you can view them through Keychain Access on a Mac, or ask someone with a Windows computer or Android phone to retrieve it for you.
What if the password on the router sticker doesn't work?
Someone has changed the WiFi password from the default. Try retrieving it from a connected computer using the Windows or Mac methods above. If no device is connected, you'll need to reset the router to factory settings to return to the default password, which will erase your custom settings.
Is the password the same as my internet account password?
No. Your WiFi password is separate from your internet account password. The WiFi password lets devices connect to your network. Your account password is what you use to log into your provider's website or customer service. They are not the same.
Why does my password have special characters and numbers?
Your internet provider generates default passwords with a mix of letters, numbers, and sometimes special characters to make them harder to guess. When typing it, include every character exactly as shown on the sticker, including capital letters, because WiFi passwords are case-sensitive.
Can I change my WiFi password after I find it?
Yes. Once you know your current password and can connect to your router's settings page, you can create a new password. Log into your router by typing its IP address (usually 192.168.1.1) into a web browser, then look for WiFi settings or Security settings. Your router's manual or manufacturer's website will have specific steps for your model.