Easy Steps to View WiFi Passwords on Windows and Mac Laptops

Did you know that your laptop safely stores all the WiFi passwords you’ve connected to in the past? Many users aren’t aware that these passwords can be easily retrieved when needed, saving you the frustration of searching for that misplaced sticky note. Forgetting your WiFi password can be irritating, especially when trying to connect to a new device or help a friend get online.

But don’t worry! This guide will show you exactly how to check your WiFi password on a laptop step by step, without resetting your router or calling your ISP for help.

1. How to Check WiFi Password on Windows 10 and 11

You can easily check your saved WiFi password on Windows using the Network and Sharing Center or Command Prompt.

A. Using Network and Sharing Center

1. Press the Start button and search for Control Panel. Open it.

2. Navigate to Network and Sharing Center under the Network and Internet section.

3. Click on the name of your active WiFi network under Connections.

4. In the new window, click on Wireless Properties.

5. Switch to the Security tab and select Show characters to display your WiFi password.

B. Using Command Prompt (Advanced Method)

1. Open Command Prompt as an administrator by typing cmd in the Start menu and selecting Run as administrator.

2. First, copy this command and then paste it. 👇👇

netsh wlan show profile name=”WiFiName” key=clear

 Replace “WiFiName” with the exact name of your network.

3. Find the Key Content section in the results. This is your WiFi password.

2. How to Check WiFi Password on macOS

On macOS, you can find your WiFi password through Keychain Access or the Terminal app, both quick and simple methods.

A. Using Keychain Access

Mac users can easily retrieve their WiFi password through Keychain Access:

1. Open Keychain Access via Spotlight or the Applications folder.

2. Use the search bar to find your WiFi network name.

3. Double-click on the network name and select Show Password.

4. Enter your Mac’s administrator password to confirm, and your WiFi password will be displayed.

B. Using Terminal

For users who prefer using commands:

1. Open Terminal from Applications > Utilities.

2. First, copy this command and then paste it. 👇👇

security find-generic-password -ga “WiFiName” | grep “password”

Replace “WiFiName” with the name of your WiFi network.

3. Enter your Mac password when prompted, and the password will appear.

3. Common Issues When Checking WiFi Password

If you face problems while retrieving your WiFi password, here’s how to resolve them:

1. WiFi Network Not Listed: Ensure you’ve previously linked to the network on your laptop. Reconnecting may refresh its information.

2. Admin Access Required: Make sure you’re logged in with an administrator account to view password settings.

3. Forgotten Network Name: Check the label on your router or contact your Internet Service Provider for help.

These methods are handy for users wondering “how to recover internet passwords” or “where to find WiFi passwords in a laptop.”

4. Tips to Manage WiFi Passwords

1. Save Your Passwords: Use a password manager to safely save all of your WiFi passwords. This will save you time and avoid disturbance in the future.

2. Keep a Physical Backup: Write down your WiFi password and keep it somewhere safe.

3. Change Default Passwords: If you’re still using your router’s default password, try changing it to something unique and memorable.

4. Label your networks clearly: Use a memorable name for your WiFi network so that it may be quickly identified in a crowded list.

Conclusion

In this article, we’ve covered in depth how to check the WiFi password on a laptop. My advice is to note down your passwords or use a trusted app to handle them securely. This small step can save you a lot of time in the future. If you liked this page, don’t forget to check out our other helpful guides and share your thoughts with us!