How to find your Wi-Fi password on Windows

Complete guide with multiple methods and troubleshooting

7-10 min read
Expert Verified
Last Updated: August 2025

Quick Answer

To find your Wi-Fi password on Windows, you can access the network settings through the Control Panel or use the Command Prompt. Both methods allow you to view the saved password for your Wi-Fi network, provided you have the necessary permissions.

Easy⏱ 7-10 min read

Prerequisites & Requirements

Before you start, ensure you meet the following requirements:
  • •Windows 10 or Windows 11 installed on your device.
  • •Administrative privileges to access network settings.
  • •Access to the device that is currently connected to the Wi-Fi network.
  • •No third-party security software blocking access to network settings.

Method 1: Using Network & Internet Settings

This method is useful when you want to visually navigate through Windows settings to find your Wi-Fi password.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start menu (Windows icon) in the taskbar.
  • •Step 2: Select 'Settings' (gear icon).
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Network & Internet'.
  • •Step 4: In the left pane, select 'Status'.
  • •Step 5: Scroll down and click on 'Network and Sharing Center'.
  • •Step 6: In the new window, click on your Wi-Fi network name next to 'Connections'.
  • •Step 7: A Wi-Fi Status window will pop up. Click on 'Wireless Properties'.
  • •Step 8: In the new window, navigate to the 'Security' tab.
  • •Step 9: Check the box next to 'Show characters' to reveal your Wi-Fi password.
  • •Step 10: Verify that the password displayed matches your expectations.

For Windows 11

Windows 11 has a slightly different interface but follows similar steps.
  • •Step 1: Click on the Start button and select 'Settings'.
  • •Step 2: Choose 'Network & Internet' from the sidebar.
  • •Step 3: Click on 'Advanced network settings'.
  • •Step 4: Under 'More settings', select 'Network and Sharing Center'.
  • •Step 5: Follow steps 6 to 10 from the previous section.

For Windows 10

Windows 10 users will find the steps straightforward as outlined above.
  • •No additional steps are needed for Windows 10; follow the main method.

Method 2: Using Command Prompt

This method is useful for users who prefer command-line tools or need to retrieve the password quickly.
  • •Step 1: Press 'Windows + R' to open the Run dialog.
  • •Step 2: Type 'cmd' and press 'Enter' to open Command Prompt.
  • •Step 3: In the Command Prompt window, type 'netsh wlan show profile' and press 'Enter'.
  • •Step 4: Locate your Wi-Fi network name in the list and type 'netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear', replacing 'YourNetworkName' with the actual name.
  • •Step 5: Look for 'Key Content' in the results; this is your Wi-Fi password.
  • •Step 6: If the command doesn't work, ensure you are using the correct network name.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you encounter issues while trying to find your Wi-Fi password, consider the following solutions:
  • •Error: 'Access Denied' - Solution: Ensure you are running Command Prompt as an administrator by right-clicking it and selecting 'Run as administrator'.
  • •Issue: 'Network not found' - Fix: Ensure you are connected to the Wi-Fi network before attempting to retrieve the password.
  • •Problem: 'Key Content not displayed' - Workaround: Double-check that you have selected 'Show characters' in the Wireless Properties window.

Advanced Tips & Shortcuts

For power users, here are some tips to enhance your experience:
  • •Keyboard shortcut: 'Windows + X' - Opens the Quick Link menu for easy access to system tools.
  • •Command line: 'netsh wlan export profile' - Exports all Wi-Fi profiles to an XML file for backup.
  • •Hidden feature: 'Wi-Fi Sense' - Automatically connects you to open Wi-Fi hotspots; ensure it's enabled in settings.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these common pitfalls:

Expert Tips

Using the Command Prompt is often faster and more efficient for advanced users, especially when managing multiple networks.