If you’ve ever found yourself needing your WiFi password but can’t remember it, you’re in luck. You can retrieve it using Command Prompt (CMD) in Windows 10. This quick guide will show you how to find your WiFi password with just a few simple commands. Here’s a step-by-step overview of what you’ll need to do.
How to See WiFi Password on Windows 10 CMD
We’re about to dive into some simple steps to retrieve your WiFi password using the CMD in Windows 10. This process will allow you to view the password of a WiFi network you’ve previously connected to.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
First, you need to open Command Prompt with administrative rights.
You can do this by typing "cmd" in the search bar, right-clicking on the Command Prompt icon, and selecting "Run as administrator." This ensures you have the necessary permissions to execute all the commands.
Step 2: Enter the Network Profile List Command
Type the following command and press Enter: netsh wlan show profile. This command will display a list of all the WiFi networks your computer has connected to.
This step is handy because it shows all previous connections, not just the current one. It’s like opening a digital diary of your WiFi history.
Step 3: Select the Desired Network
Identify the network for which you want to find the password.
This will be one of the profiles listed in the output from Step 2. Make a note of the exact network name (SSID) you want to target.
Step 4: Enter the Key Content Command
Now, type the following command, replacing "NETWORK NAME" with the name of your WiFi: netsh wlan show profile name="NETWORK NAME" key=clear. Press Enter to execute.
This command will display detailed information about the selected network, including its security settings and, crucially, the password.
Step 5: Locate the WiFi Password
Scroll through the output until you find the "Key Content" field. This is where your WiFi password will be displayed.
This step reveals the WiFi password in plain text. It’s like finding the key under the mat—hidden but accessible if you know where to look.
After completing these steps, you should now see your WiFi password displayed on the screen. You can use this password to reconnect to the network or share it with others.
Tips for How to See WiFi Password on Windows 10 CMD
- Always run Command Prompt as an administrator to ensure you have the necessary permissions.
- Make sure you type the network name (SSID) exactly as it appears to avoid errors.
- Use the up and down arrow keys to navigate through previous commands in CMD to save time.
- Be cautious about sharing your WiFi password; only share it with trusted individuals.
- If the password comprises a mix of characters, note down the case sensitivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I open Command Prompt as an administrator?
You can type "cmd" in the search bar, right-click on the Command Prompt icon, and select "Run as administrator."
Why can’t I see the "Key Content" in my CMD output?
Ensure you have typed the network name correctly and that you have administrative rights.
Can I use this method for any WiFi network?
No, you can only see passwords for networks you’ve previously connected to on your device.
Is it safe to use Command Prompt to find my WiFi password?
Yes, as long as you are cautious and follow the steps correctly, it’s a safe method.
What should I do if I still can’t find my WiFi password?
Double-check the network name or consider resetting your router if all else fails.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator.
- Enter
netsh wlan show profile. - Identify the desired network.
- Enter
netsh wlan show profile name="NETWORK NAME" key=clear. - Locate the "Key Content" field to find your WiFi password.
Conclusion
And there you have it! Finding your WiFi password using Command Prompt in Windows 10 is easier than you might have thought. This method can save you a lot of time and frustration, especially if you’ve misplaced that little scrap of paper with your password scribbled on it.
Feel free to bookmark this guide or share it with friends who might find it useful. Knowing how to navigate CMD for tasks like this can really empower you to better manage your tech life. For further reading, consider exploring more Command Prompt commands—they can unlock a world of hidden features in your Windows system. If you have any questions or run into issues, don’t hesitate to refer back to this guide or reach out for help. Happy computing!
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.