How to Get Saved WiFi Password in Windows 10
If you’re using Windows 10 and need to retrieve a saved WiFi password, you’re in luck! You can quickly and easily find the password using built-in tools. Whether you forgot your WiFi password and need to connect another device or just want to share it with a friend, this guide will walk you through the steps.
How to Get Saved WiFi Password in Windows 10
In this section, you’ll learn how to find the saved WiFi password on your Windows 10 computer. This process involves using the Command Prompt and Network Settings.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
To get started, open the Command Prompt.
To do this, press the Windows key, type "cmd", and press Enter. This will open the Command Prompt window, where you’ll type in the necessary commands.
Step 2: Enter the Command
Type "netsh wlan show profile" and press Enter.
This command will display a list of all the WiFi networks your computer has connected to. Find the network for which you need the password.
Step 3: Find the Network
Type "netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear" and press Enter.
Replace "YourNetworkName" with the actual name of your WiFi network. This command will show detailed information about the network, including the password.
Step 4: Locate the Password
Look for the "Key Content" line in the results.
The "Key Content" line will display your WiFi password. It’s usually found under the "Security settings" section.
Step 5: Close the Command Prompt
Close the Command Prompt window.
You can now close the Command Prompt window by typing "exit" and pressing Enter, or simply clicking the X button.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you will have successfully retrieved your saved WiFi password. You can now use it to connect other devices to the network or share it with others.
Tips for How to Get Saved WiFi Password in Windows 10
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Use Command Prompt with Admin Rights: Sometimes, you may need to run Command Prompt as an administrator. Right-click the Command Prompt icon and select "Run as administrator".
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Write Down the Password: Once you have the password, write it down or save it in a secure place to avoid going through the steps again.
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Double-Check Network Name: Make sure you type the network name exactly as it appears, including any special characters and case sensitivity.
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Use Network Settings: If Command Prompt is not your thing, you can find the password in Network Settings by navigating to Network & Internet settings > Status > Network and Sharing Center > Connections > Wireless Properties > Security tab.
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Update WiFi Drivers: Ensure your WiFi drivers are up-to-date for a smoother experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the WiFi password of any network with these steps?
No, you can only see the passwords of networks your computer has previously connected to.
What if I don’t have the Command Prompt?
Command Prompt is a built-in tool in Windows 10. If you can’t find it, you might need to check your system settings or search for it in the Start menu.
Do I need administrative privileges?
Generally, you do not need administrative privileges to view the WiFi password, but in some cases, you might.
What if the "Key Content" line is missing?
If the "Key Content" line is missing, it means the password is not stored on your computer, or there’s a permissions issue.
Is it safe to share my WiFi password?
Sharing your WiFi password is safe as long as you trust the person. Be cautious, as they can access your network.
Summary of Steps
- Open Command Prompt.
- Enter the command "netsh wlan show profile".
- Find the network.
- Enter the command "netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear".
- Locate the password under "Key Content".
- Close Command Prompt.
Conclusion
Finding your saved WiFi password in Windows 10 is a straightforward process that involves using the Command Prompt or Network Settings. With just a few clicks, you can retrieve the password and use it to connect other devices or share it with friends.
Remember, these steps only work for networks you’ve connected to before. If you’re ever in doubt, follow the tips provided to make the process easier. By knowing how to get saved WiFi passwords in Windows 10, you can avoid the frustration of forgotten passwords and ensure seamless connectivity for all your devices.
For further reading, consider exploring more about WiFi security and network management to safeguard your connections. Happy surfing!
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.