To see a saved Wi-Fi password on Windows 11, open Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks, click the network, and click View next to View Wi-Fi security key (available in recent Windows 11 versions). On older versions, use Control Panel’s Wireless Network Properties and check Show characters, or run a netsh command. These methods only show passwords for networks your PC has already connected to, and you need administrator rights.
Quick Answer
Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks > network > View Wi-Fi security key > View.
Method 1: Settings
- Open Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi.
- Click Manage known networks and select the network.
- Next to View Wi-Fi security key, click View. Confirm with your PIN or password if asked.
Method 2: Control Panel (Connected Network)
- Press Windows + R, type ncpa.cpl, and press Enter.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter > Status > Wireless Properties.
- Open the Security tab and check Show characters.
Method 3: Command Prompt (Any Saved Network)
- Open Command Prompt as administrator.
- Run netsh wlan show profiles to list saved networks.
- Run netsh wlan show profile name=”NetworkName” key=clear. The password is next to Key Content.
Share Without Reading It Out
| Option | How |
|---|---|
| QR code | Recent Windows 11 versions can show a QR code for the network; see sharing Wi-Fi with a QR code |
| Router label or app | Many routers print the default key on a sticker or show it in their app |
Troubleshooting
- Show characters is grayed out: You need administrator rights.
- Key Content missing: The network uses enterprise sign-in (username and password), not a shared key.
- Forgot a network you need? See forgetting and rejoining Wi-Fi.
- On Windows 7? See finding a Wi-Fi password on Windows 7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the password for a network I’ve never joined?
No. Windows only stores passwords for networks it has connected to. Ask the network owner.
Is it safe to share my Wi-Fi password?
Share it only with people you trust, or use a guest network on your router.
Summary
- Settings > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks > View Wi-Fi security key.
- Or Control Panel > Wireless Properties > Show characters.
- Or netsh wlan show profile with key=clear.
- Admin rights are required.
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.