How to Get WiFi Password in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 12, 2025

Ever forgotten your WiFi password and needed it urgently? Don’t worry—Windows 11 makes it possible to retrieve saved passwords in multiple ways. Whether you’re connecting a new device, sharing your network with a friend, or just curious, this guide will show you how to get your WiFi password in Windows 11 quickly and safely.

Why You Might Need Your WiFi Password

Knowing your WiFi password is crucial for several reasons:

  • Connecting new devices: Phones, tablets, or smart home devices.

  • Sharing with guests: Avoid typing on your router.

  • Troubleshooting network issues: Resetting or reconnecting to your network.

  • Backup purposes: Keeping a record for emergencies.

Think of it as keeping your house keys handy—you can’t enter without them!

Method 1: Get WiFi Password Using Settings

If your PC is already connected to the WiFi network, follow these steps:

Step 1: Open Settings

  1. Press Windows + I to open Settings.

  2. Go to Network & Internet → Wi-Fi.

Step 2: Access Network Properties

  1. Click Hardware properties or Network properties depending on your update version.

  2. Find your connected WiFi network and click View properties.

Step 3: Reveal the Password

  • Look for the Security key or Network security key.

  • It may be hidden as dots; click Show characters to reveal your password.

Method 2: Get WiFi Password Using Control Panel

A classic way that works in almost every Windows version:

Step 1: Open Control Panel

  1. Press Windows + S, type Control Panel, and open it.

  2. Navigate to Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.

Step 2: Select Your Network

  1. Click your WiFi network name next to “Connections.”

  2. Click Wireless Properties → Security tab.

Step 3: Reveal Your Password

  • Check the box Show characters to see your saved WiFi password.

This method is reliable and doesn’t require admin privileges if your account is standard.

Method 3: Get WiFi Password Using Command Prompt

For tech-savvy users, Command Prompt is fast:

Step 1: Open Command Prompt

  1. Press Windows + S, type cmd, and select Run as administrator.

Step 2: Enter Command to List Profiles

netsh wlan show profiles

  • This lists all WiFi networks your PC has connected to.

Step 3: Get Password for a Specific Network

netsh wlan show profile name="NETWORK_NAME" key=clear

  • Replace NETWORK_NAME with your WiFi name.

  • Scroll to Key Content, which shows your password.

Command Prompt is quick and works even if you’ve forgotten the password on your router.

Method 4: Use PowerShell to Retrieve WiFi Password

Windows PowerShell is another reliable tool:

  1. Open Windows PowerShell as administrator.

  2. Type the same command as in Command Prompt:

netsh wlan show profile name="NETWORK_NAME" key=clear

  1. Look under Key Content for the WiFi password.

PowerShell is perfect for advanced users who prefer scripting or automation.

Method 5: Check Router Settings

If all else fails, your router has the password:

  1. Open a browser and enter your router’s IP address (commonly 192.168.1.1).

  2. Log in using your router credentials.

  3. Navigate to Wireless settings → WiFi password.

This method is especially useful for networks your PC hasn’t connected to yet.

Tips for Managing WiFi Passwords

  • Store securely: Use a password manager to avoid forgetting passwords.

  • Label networks: Give WiFi networks easy-to-remember names.

  • Change regularly: For security, update passwords every few months.

  • Share wisely: Only share with trusted devices or people.

Common Issues and Fixes

  • Cannot see password in Settings: Ensure you’re connected to the network.

  • Admin privileges required: Command Prompt/PowerShell methods need admin access.

  • Password not working: Double-check the network name and router settings.

  • Saved networks not listed: May need to reconnect or refresh network list.

Conclusion

Retrieving your WiFi password in Windows 11 is easier than ever. Whether you use Settings, Control Panel, Command Prompt, PowerShell, or even your router’s interface, you have multiple ways to access your network key. By knowing these methods, you’ll never be locked out or struggle to connect new devices again.

FAQs

1. Can I see a WiFi password without admin access?
Yes, using Settings or Control Panel methods may work without admin privileges.

2. Can I recover a WiFi password for networks I’m not connected to?
Only if your PC has connected to that network before. Otherwise, check your router.

3. Is it safe to reveal my WiFi password in Windows 11?
Yes, as long as you are the PC owner or an authorized user.

4. Can I use mobile apps to find my WiFi password?
Some apps exist, but retrieving via Windows 11 is safer and more reliable.

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