How to View WiFi Password on Android: Easy Steps for Quick Access

Whether you've connected to a WiFi network ages ago and need the password again or want to share it with a friend, viewing saved WiFi passwords on an Android device can be incredibly useful. Fortunately, Android makes this process quite simple on recent versions. Let’s walk through some easy methods to retrieve WiFi passwords on Android.

Why Would You Need to View WiFi Passwords?

There are several reasons why you might want to see the WiFi password on your Android device:

• To share it with friends or family members.
• To connect a new device (like a tablet or laptop).
• To remember forgotten passwords for networks you access frequently.

This guide will cover multiple methods, ensuring compatibility with most Android devices, from Android 10 and up to older versions. So let’s get started!

Check out: Get 10 Best WiFi Password Finder: How to Find Your WiFi Password Easily

Method 1: Using Android Settings (For Android 10 and Above)

If your Android device runs Android 10 or later, accessing saved WiFi passwords directly from your settings is straightforward.

Step 1: Open Network Settings

1. Go to Settings on your Android device.
2. Tap on “Network & Internet.”
3. Select WiFi to view all available networks.

Step 2: Access Saved Networks

1. Tap on the network you’re connected to, or navigate to Saved Networks if you want to retrieve the password for a different network.
2. Select the WiFi network you want to view.

Step 3: Reveal Password

1. Tap on Share to generate a QR code.
2. You’ll be prompted to enter your device’s PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.
3. After authentication, you should see the WiFi password displayed in text below the QR code.

This method is one of the simplest and works perfectly on Android 10 and above.

Check out: How to Find WiFi Password on Mac

Method 2: Using Google Lens to Scan QR Codes (Alternative to Copying)

If you have trouble viewing the password directly, you can use Google Lens to scan the QR code generated in the previous steps.

1. Open Google Lens on another device.
2. Scan the QR code displayed on your Android device.
3. Google Lens will extract the WiFi password information from the code, allowing you to view it without entering it manually.

This approach is particularly helpful if you want to save the password or share it with another device.

Check out: How to See Wifi Password on Android

Method 3: Accessing WiFi Passwords with File Explorer (Android 9 and Below)

For Android versions before 10, there’s no built-in option to view saved WiFi passwords without root access. However, if your device is rooted, you can retrieve these passwords by accessing system files.

Step 1: Install a File Explorer App

To view system files, you’ll need a file explorer app that supports root access. Popular options include ES File Explorer or Root Browser.

1. Download and install the app from the Google Play Store.
2. Grant root permissions when prompted by the app.

Step 2: Navigate to WiFi Configuration Files

1. In your file explorer app, go to the directory /data/misc/wifi/.
2. Look for a file called wpa_supplicant.conf.

Note: Be careful not to edit or delete this file, as it stores all WiFi configurations.

Step 3: Open and Find Passwords

1. Open the wpa_supplicant.conf file using a text editor.
2. Scroll down to find SSID (network name) and PSK (password) fields for each saved network.

Important Notes on Rooting

Rooting provides full access to your device but voids warranties and may pose security risks. Proceed with caution and ensure you understand the implications.

Check out: How to See WiFi Password on iPhone

Method 4: Using WiFi Password Recovery Apps (Rooted Devices)

Several apps on the Google Play Store claim to show saved WiFi passwords, but these require root access. WiFi Password Viewer is a popular choice for rooted devices.

1. Install WiFi Password Viewer from the Google Play Store.
2. Grant root permissions when prompted.
3. The app will display a list of saved networks with passwords.

Caution: Only use trusted apps to avoid potential security issues.

Check out: How to See WiFi Password: Step-by-Step Guide

Method 5: Ask Your Router’s Admin for Assistance

If none of the above methods work or if you’re uncomfortable with rooting, you can access the WiFi password through the router settings page.

Step 1: Connect to the Router

1. Open a web browser on your Android device.
2. Enter the IP address of the router, usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1.

Step 2: Log In to the Router

1. Enter the router’s admin username and password (commonly “admin” and “password,” unless changed).
2. Once logged in, navigate to Wireless Settings.

Step 3: Locate the Password

1. Find the Security or Wireless Security section.
2. The WiFi password should be displayed as the PSK or Pre-Shared Key.

Reminder

If you don’t know the router admin login details, contact the network owner or service provider for assistance.

Check out: How to Share WiFi Password From iPhone to Android

Additional Tips for Viewing WiFi Passwords Safely

While the above methods are helpful, it’s essential to keep a few security tips in mind:

1. Avoid sharing passwords openly: Whenever possible, use QR codes or encrypted sharing options.
2. Use trusted apps: Only download apps from the Google Play Store, and check reviews to avoid scams.
3. Back up passwords: Consider using a password manager to store WiFi passwords securely for future reference.

Check out: How to Share WiFi Password From iPhone to iPhone

Common Questions About Viewing WiFi Passwords on Android

Can I view WiFi passwords on unrooted Android devices?

Yes, on Android 10 and above, you can view saved WiFi passwords without root access through the settings menu.

Do I need special apps to see WiFi passwords?

For unrooted devices on Android 10 and above, no app is needed. However, for rooted devices or Android versions below 10, certain apps may help access saved passwords.

Is it safe to root my device to view WiFi passwords?

Rooting gives you full access to your device but comes with risks, such as voiding warranties and potential security issues. Ensure you’re aware of these risks before proceeding.

Check out: How to Share WiFi Password iPhone to Mac

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking to retrieve a WiFi password to reconnect a device or share it with someone, there are several methods to access saved WiFi passwords on Android. With recent Android versions, it’s easier than ever to view these passwords without root access, keeping things simple and secure.

From using built-in settings on newer devices to exploring options for rooted Androids, you now have multiple ways to view WiFi passwords on Android. Always prioritize security, and choose the method that best fits your comfort level and device specifications.