How to Know WiFi Password in Windows 11? Step-By-Step Guide
When you connect to a wireless network on Windows 11, the system stores the network credentials securely. This includes the SSID, which is the WiFi name, and the Network security key, which is the password.
Windows stores these details so that you do not have to enter the password every time you reconnect. If you ever forget the password but your computer is still connected to the network or has connected before, you can retrieve it using system tools.
There are multiple methods to view the WiFi password in Windows 11. The most common and easiest method is through the Control Panel and Network and Sharing Center. You can also use Command Prompt to view saved passwords for previously connected networks.
In this guide, we will explore both methods in detail!
How to Know WiFi Password in Windows 11?
To know the WiFi password in Windows 11, open Control Panel, go to Network and Sharing Center, click on your connected WiFi network name, select Wireless Properties, switch to the Security tab, and check the box that says Show characters. The saved WiFi password will be displayed in the Network security key field.
Let’s explore the steps in detail!
Step 1: Open the Control Panel
The first step is to access the Control Panel in Windows 11. Even though Windows 11 has a modern Settings app, some advanced network settings are still managed through the traditional Control Panel.
Click on the Start menu and type Control Panel in the search bar. When it appears in the search results, click on it to open.
Once the Control Panel window opens, make sure the view is set to Category. This will help you find the network settings more easily.
Step 2: Go to Network and Internet Settings
Inside the Control Panel, look for the option called Network and Internet. Click on it to proceed.
On the next screen, click on Network and Sharing Center. This section allows you to manage your active networks, change adapter settings, and access advanced sharing options.
The Network and Sharing Center will show your currently connected network under the View your active networks section.
Step 3: Click on Your Connected WiFi Network
Under the active networks section, you will see the name of your current WiFi connection displayed next to Connections.
Click on the WiFi network name. This will open a new window called WiFi Status. This window displays information about your wireless connection, such as speed, signal quality, and connection duration.
This step is important because it takes you to the settings where the password is stored.
Step 4: Open Wireless Properties
In the WiFi Status window, you will see several buttons such as Details, Wireless Properties, Disable, and Diagnose.
Click on Wireless Properties. This will open another window that contains information about the network configuration.
There are two tabs in this window. One is the Connection tab, and the other is the Security tab.
Step 5: Go to the Security Tab
Now, click on the Security tab. This section displays the type of security used by the network and the saved password.
You will see a field labeled Network security key. By default, the password will be hidden and shown as dots or asterisks for security reasons.
To reveal the password, check the box that says Show characters.
As soon as you select this option, the saved WiFi password will be visible in plain text.
Step 6: Note Down or Share the Password
After the password is visible, you can carefully note it down or use it to connect another device to the same network.
Make sure you keep the password secure and do not share it with unauthorized users. If you believe the password has been exposed, consider changing it from your router settings.
Alternative Method to Know WiFi Password in Windows 11
In addition to the Control Panel method, you can also use Command Prompt to find the WiFi password in Windows 11. This method is especially helpful if you want to view passwords of networks that you previously connected to but are not currently connected to.
First, open the Start menu and type Command Prompt. Right-click on it and select Run as administrator.
In the Command Prompt window, type the command to display all saved WiFi profiles on your system. This will show a list of network names.
Next, type another command with the specific network name to view its details. Look for the section labeled Key Content. The value next to it is the saved WiFi password.
This method is powerful because it allows you to retrieve passwords for multiple saved networks.
What If You Are Not Connected to the WiFi?
If your computer is not currently connected to the WiFi network but has connected to it before, you can still retrieve the password using the Command Prompt method.
However, if you have never connected to that network on your Windows 11 device, the password will not be stored on your system. In that case, you will need to check the router label or log into the router’s admin panel to find or reset the password.
Security Considerations
While it is convenient to know how to view saved WiFi passwords, it is also important to maintain security.
Always ensure that your device is protected with a strong login password. Anyone with access to your computer account can view the saved WiFi password using the steps described above.
If you suspect unauthorized access, update your WiFi password from your router settings and reconnect your devices using the new credentials.
Faqs
Can I see the WiFi password in Windows 11 without administrator rights?
In most cases, you need administrative privileges to view saved WiFi passwords. If you are using a standard account, you may be prompted to enter an administrator password.
Can I view passwords of all previously connected networks?
Yes, you can view passwords of previously connected networks using the Command Prompt method, as long as the network profile is still saved on your system.
Is it safe to view the WiFi password on my PC?
Yes, it is safe if you are accessing your own device. However, make sure no unauthorized person is watching your screen when you reveal the password.
Why is the Show characters option not working?
If the option does not work, ensure you have proper administrative permissions. You may need to log in as an administrator.
Can I change the WiFi password from Windows 11?
No, Windows 11 only shows the saved password. To change it, you must log into your router’s admin panel and update the password there.