If you’ve ever tried connecting a new device to your Wi-Fi but couldn’t remember the password, you’re not alone. In Windows 11, your Wi-Fi password is stored as the network security key. Knowing how to find it can save you the frustration of resetting your router or digging through old notes.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through step-by-step methods to find the network security key in Windows 11, whether you’re connected to Wi-Fi right now or need to recover a saved one.
What is a Network Security Key?
A network security key is just a fancy term for your Wi-Fi password. It’s the code that allows devices to connect securely to your wireless network.
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WEP Key: Older, less secure encryption.
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WPA / WPA2 / WPA3 Key: Modern, more secure standards.
When Windows 11 asks for a network security key, it’s asking for your Wi-Fi password.
Method 1: Find the Network Security Key Through Settings
If you’re already connected to the Wi-Fi, this is the easiest method.
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Press Win + I to open Settings.
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Go to Network & internet > Advanced network settings.
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Under Related settings, click More network adapter options.
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Right-click your Wi-Fi network and select Status.
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Click Wireless Properties.
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Go to the Security tab.
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Check the box Show characters to reveal your network security key.
Method 2: Use Control Panel to Find Wi-Fi Password
The classic Control Panel method still works in Windows 11:
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Press Win + R, type
control, and hit Enter. -
Go to Network and Sharing Center.
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Click your Wi-Fi connection name.
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In the Wi-Fi Status window, select Wireless Properties.
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Under the Security tab, tick Show characters.
Your Wi-Fi password (network security key) will now be visible.
Method 3: Find Saved Wi-Fi Passwords Using Command Prompt
If you want to see the password for any Wi-Fi network your PC has connected to before:
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Press Win + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.
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Enter this command to see all saved Wi-Fi profiles:
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Find the name of the network (SSID) you want.
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Enter this command (replace NetworkName with your Wi-Fi name):
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Scroll down to Security settings > Key Content.
That’s your Wi-Fi password.
Method 4: Find Wi-Fi Password Using PowerShell
If you prefer PowerShell:
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Open PowerShell as Administrator.
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Run this command:
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Look for Key Content under security settings.
Method 5: Check Your Router
If you can’t access Windows or need the password for the first time:
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Look on the back or bottom of your router for a label (default password).
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Log in to your router’s admin panel using its IP address (usually
192.168.0.1or192.168.1.1) and check Wi-Fi settings.
Extra Tips for Managing Wi-Fi Keys
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Use a password manager to store your Wi-Fi password safely.
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Sync Wi-Fi passwords across devices with your Microsoft account (enabled by default).
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Change your Wi-Fi password regularly for better security.
Troubleshooting
Can’t See the Show Characters Option?
You must be logged in as an administrator to reveal the password.
Command Prompt Shows No Profiles?
That means your PC has never connected to that Wi-Fi network.
Router Label Doesn’t Work?
It’s likely the password was changed — log in to the router’s admin panel.
Conclusion
Finding your network security key in Windows 11 is simple once you know where to look. Whether through Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, or even your router, there are multiple ways to recover your Wi-Fi password.
Think of it as finding the key to your digital front door — once you know the tricks, you’ll never be locked out again.
FAQs
Q1. What’s the difference between a Wi-Fi password and a network security key?
They are the same thing — just different terms.
Q2. Can I find the Wi-Fi password if I’m not connected?
Yes, using Command Prompt or PowerShell for saved networks.
Q3. Do I need admin rights to view my Wi-Fi password?
Yes, you must be logged in as an administrator.
Q4. Can I see the network security key of someone else’s Wi-Fi?
No, you can only view passwords for networks your PC has connected to.
Q5. Where do I find the default Wi-Fi key?
On the back of your router or in the router’s web interface.