Forgetting a Wi‑Fi password is one of the most common digital frustrations, especially when a guest arrives or a new device refuses to connect. The good news is that you can retrieve the password directly from the device or router that originally stored it, as long as you have the necessary access. This guide walks through practical, legitimate methods to show the Wi‑Fi password on Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, without resorting to unsafe hacks.
Check the Router or Modem Label First
The simplest way to show the Wi‑Fi password is to look at the physical router or modem. Most manufacturers print a default SSID and password on a sticker attached to the device. This is often the network name and password set during initial installation, which may still be active if you have not changed it. If you have changed the password and do not remember it, the sticker will at least confirm the default credentials provided by your internet service provider or equipment vendor.
Use Windows Settings to Reveal Saved Wi‑Fi Credentials
If you are using Windows and have previously connected to the network, the operating system can display the saved Wi‑Fi password through the graphical interface. This method works on Windows 10 and Windows 11 when the network is set as a profile and you have administrative rights. The process requires a few clicks in the Network & Internet settings, and it presents the password in a clear, readable format once you confirm your identity.
Step‑by‑step instructions on Windows
Open the Start menu and select Settings, or press Win + I .
Navigate to Network > Internet > Advanced network settings > More network adapter options.
In the Network Connections window, right‑click the active Wi‑Fi adapter and choose Status.
Click Wireless Properties, then switch to the Security tab.
Check the box labeled Show characters to reveal the network security key.
View Wi‑Fi Password Through Command Prompt on Windows
For users who prefer working with commands or need to retrieve multiple network profiles, Windows Command Prompt offers a precise way to show the Wi‑Fi password. This approach uses the netsh utility to export or display profile information, including the security key. You must run the command with elevated privileges to access stored credentials.
Command Prompt procedure
Type cmd in the search bar, right‑click Command Prompt, and choose Run as administrator.
To list all saved Wi‑Fi networks, type netsh wlan show profiles and press Enter.
To show the password for a specific network, type netsh wlan show profile name="NetworkName" key=clear , replacing NetworkName with the exact SSID.
Locate the Security Settings section; the Key Content field displays the Wi‑Fi password in plain text.
Access Wi‑Fi Password on macOS Through Keychain Access
Apple’s macOS stores Wi‑Fi network details in the Keychain, a secure system that manages passwords and certificates. With user authentication, you can reveal the Wi‑Fi password for networks you have joined before. This method requires you to know the admin password to unlock the keychain, ensuring that only authorized users can view sensitive credentials.
How to show the Wi‑Fi password on Mac
Open Applications, go to Utilities, and launch Keychain Access.
From the Category list, select Passwords and filter by the network name in the search field.
Double‑click the appropriate network entry, then check the Show password option.
Authenticate with your user password or use Touch ID / Face ID if prompted.
The password field will display the Wi‑Fi network passphrase in readable format.
