We’ve all been there trying to connect a new device to Wi-Fi, but the password is long gone. Maybe your friend wants to hop on your network, or you’re setting up a new phone, and suddenly you realize you have no idea what your Wi-Fi password is.
If you’re using an Android phone, you might be surprised to learn that it's actually pretty simple to retrieve that password especially if you're running Android 10 or newer. Let’s walk through how to check your saved Wi-Fi passwords, no tech degree or rooting required.
For Android 10 and Above: No Root, No Hassle
Starting with Android 10, Google made it much easier to share and view saved Wi-Fi credentials. Here’s how you can do it in just a few taps:Step-by-Step:
Works On:
- Open Settings on your phone.
- Tap Network & Internet > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the gear icon next to your connected network, or go to Saved networks.
- Tap Share. You’ll be asked to verify with your fingerprint, PIN, or pattern.
- A QR code will appear, and right below it, you’ll see the actual Wi-Fi password in plain text.
Quick Tip: You can scan the QR code from another phone to connect instantly, no need to type the password again.
Works On:
- Google Pixel phones
- Samsung Galaxy (One UI 2.0 and up)
- Xiaomi, Redmi, POCO (MIUI 12 and up)
- OPPO/Realme/Vivo (ColorOS/FuntouchOS with newer Android versions)
Still Using Android 9 or Below? It Gets a Bit Tricky
Unfortunately, if your phone is stuck on Android 9 (Pie) or older, there’s no official way to view saved Wi-Fi passwords without rooting your phone. That’s because these versions store passwords in a protected system file that standard users can't access.Rooted Device? Here’s How (Advanced Users Only):
- Use a root file explorer like Root Explorer or Solid Explorer.
- Navigate to: /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf
- Open the file, and you’ll find all saved networks and their passwords in plain text.
Warning: Rooting your phone voids warranties and can break things. Only do this if you really know what you're doing.
Scan the QR Code with Another Phone
If your phone only shows a QR code but not the plain password (common with Realme and OPPO), here’s a clever trick:- Use another Android phone to scan the code using Google Lens or the built in QR scanner.
- It will auto fill the password and offer to connect. Some scanners even reveal the password.
- It’s a great workaround when your phone hides the password but still lets you share it via QR.
Why Doesn’t Android Show Passwords by Default?
Good question. Android is designed with privacy and security in mind. Letting just anyone see saved Wi-Fi passwords could expose you to security risks, especially on shared devices.That’s why the newer system requires authentication (PIN/fingerprint) to reveal the password. It’s a balance between convenience and safety.
Pro Tip: Use a Password Manager
Tired of forgetting Wi-Fi passwords altogether? Consider using a password manager app like
- Bitwarden
- 1Password
- LastPass
These tools can store your Wi-Fi credentials securely and sync them across devices. Some phones also save passwords to your Google Account, which you can view at passwords.google.com.
Wrap-Up: Quick Recap
| Android Version | Can View Password? | Needs Root? | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android 10 and up | Yes | No | Built-in QR and password viewer |
| Android 9 and below | No | Yes | Requires root and file explorer apps |
So the next time you’re stuck trying to remember that Wi-Fi password from two years ago, just remember, your Android phone probably already knows it you just need to ask nicely.
Want more smart Android tips like this? Bookmark this page or share it with someone who's always asking for the Wi-Fi password!