Unlocking your WiFi password in Windows 11 using the Command Prompt (CMD) may seem tricky, but it’s actually a simple process. With just a few commands, you can retrieve your WiFi password in no time. This article provides a clear, step-by-step guide to help you find your WiFi password through CMD in Windows 11.
How to Check WiFi Password in Windows 11 CMD
In this section, we will delve into the steps to accomplish the task. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to view your WiFi password using Command Prompt in Windows 11.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
Press the “Windows” key, type “cmd,” and select “Run as administrator.”
When you open the Command Prompt as an administrator, you get access to all system-level commands, which is necessary for viewing your WiFi password.
Step 2: Type the First Command
Enter the command netsh wlan show profiles and press “Enter.”
This command displays all the WiFi profiles that your computer has connected to. You’ll see a list of network names under “User Profiles.”
Step 3: Identify Your Network
Find and note the name of your current WiFi network from the list.
Make sure you correctly identify your WiFi network from the list. This is crucial because the next command requires the exact network name.
Step 4: Type the Second Command
Enter the command netsh wlan show profile name="YourWiFiNetworkName" key=clear and press “Enter.”
Replace "YourWiFiNetworkName" with the name of your WiFi network. This command will display detailed information about the WiFi network, including the password.
Step 5: Find the Password
Look for the “Key Content” line under the “Security settings” section.
The "Key Content" line will display your WiFi password in plain text. This is your WiFi password that you can use to connect other devices.
Once you complete these steps, you’ll see your WiFi password displayed in the Command Prompt. You can now use this password to connect other devices to your network.
Tips for Checking WiFi Password in Windows 11 CMD
- Always Run CMD as Administrator: This ensures you have the necessary permissions to retrieve the WiFi password.
- Copy Commands Carefully: Typing errors can lead to incorrect results.
- Check Network Name: Ensure you are using the correct WiFi network name in the command.
- Security Awareness: Be cautious with who sees your screen when revealing the password.
- Use for Personal Use: Only use this method for networks you have permission to access.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I can’t find my WiFi network in the list?
Ensure your WiFi is turned on and connected. Try running the command again.
What if CMD says ‘access denied’?
Make sure you are running the Command Prompt as an administrator.
Can I use this method for any WiFi network?
No, only the networks that your computer has previously connected to.
Is this method secure?
Yes, as long as you use it responsibly and ensure no unauthorized people see your password.
What if I entered the command correctly but still can’t see the password?
Double-check the network name and ensure there are no extra spaces or typos.
Summary
- Open CMD as administrator
- Type
netsh wlan show profiles - Identify your network
- Type
netsh wlan show profile name="YourWiFiNetworkName" key=clear - Find the password under “Key Content”
Conclusion
Finding your WiFi password using CMD in Windows 11 is straightforward once you know the steps. Whether you’ve forgotten your password or need to share it with someone, the Command Prompt comes in handy. Always remember to use this method responsibly and keep your network secure. For further reading, you might want to explore other CMD commands that can help manage your network settings.
Unlocking your digital world shouldn’t be a mystery. By mastering these simple steps to check your WiFi password in Windows 11 CMD, you’re ensuring smooth sailing on the internet. Why not try these steps now and take control of your network?
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.