How to Find Your WiFi Password on Windows 11
There’s times when you need to share your WiFi password with someone, but it’s just gone from your head, right? Feels like trying to crack a secret code! Luckily, Windows 11 has that info tucked away somewhere in the network settings — it’s just a bit of a maze to get to it. Here’s the easy way to find it.
Time to Open the Settings
First off, hit the Start button — it’s your launch pad. Find “Settings,” which should be the gear icon, unless someone’s gone all out with customised icons. If you prefer, just press Windows key + I and you’re in. Then, look for “Network & Internet.” It might not be right in your face, but it’s in there.
Find Your Network
Once you’re in the Network & Internet menu, it’s a bit of a scavenger hunt. Look for “Advanced network settings,” usually down the bottom. Don’t worry if it seems a bit confusing — Windows can be a bit quirky with its layout sometimes.
Go to the Network and Sharing Center
Scroll down a tad, and you’ll see “Network and Sharing Center.” Clicking that’s like opening a blast from the past; it’s an oldie but a goodie. It might be hidden under “Related Settings,” so click around if you don’t see it straight away. Or, if you’re after the quick way, just run control /name Microsoft.NetworkAndSharingCenter from the Run box (hit Windows key + R to open it).
Check Your Network Properties
Once you’re in the Network and Sharing Center, click on your connected WiFi network name. A window will pop up — that’s the WiFi Status. Find and click on “Wireless Properties” inside there. It’s like unlocking a treasure chest of your network info.
Show the Password
In the Wireless Properties window, switch over to the “Security” tab. You’ll see a checkbox that says “Show characters.” Tick that box, and your WiFi password will appear — easy as! If it’s not showing, make sure “Connect automatically” is ticked first, as Windows can be a bit particular. Just remember, this info is sensitive — treat it like a secret handshake.
If you prefer the command line, you can also get the password through Command Prompt or PowerShell. Just run:
netsh wlan show profile name="YourWiFiNetworkName" key=clearLook for the Key Content line. Swap out "YourWiFiNetworkName" with your actual network name. Not sure what that is? Just run:
netsh wlan show interfacesThis will tell you the SSID of the network you’re connected to. Once you find the password, copy it down or save it for next time. Easy! Just don’t leave it on display if others are around — privacy’s key, mate.
It’s not rocket science, just a bit of a maze at times. Even if Windows seems a bit confusing, once you know where to look, grabbing that password is a breeze. Just remember — be mindful of who you share it with. Keep your network safe and sound, mates.
Quick Tips for Finding Your WiFi Password
- Make sure your Windows 11 is up to date. Go to Settings > Windows Update — updates can sometimes change where things are.
- Only share your WiFi password when you really need to. No need to broadcast it everywhere!
- Some settings might need admin access — if it’s a work device or school laptop, IT might have locked a few things down.
- If you’re still writing passwords on sticky notes, consider a password manager — makes life easier and keeps your details safe.
- Sharing a computer? Keep an eye on who’s looking over your shoulder — you don’t want your password getting in the wrong hands.
Common Questions
Can you find the WiFi password without admin rights?
Most of the time, nope. Windows keeps that info locked unless you’re an admin. But if you’re logged in and have connected before, you might still be able to grab it via Command Prompt or PowerShell.
What if the network isn’t currently connected?
If you’ve connected before and saved the network, it’s stored on your device. Just run netsh wlan show profiles to see all saved networks, then dig into the details from there.
What if I can’t find the “Network and Sharing Center”?
Check if your Windows needs updating — sometimes features go MIA after an update. You can also find it through the Control Panel: Control Panel > Network and Internet > Network and Sharing Center. Or, use the command from earlier.
Is this method any good for Ethernet connections?
Not really — Ethernet connections don’t use WiFi passwords. They’re secured differently, usually through physical connection or device-specific settings.
Does this work on older Windows versions?
Pretty much — the basics are similar, though layout might change a bit. If you know one version well, you can probably figure out the rest with a couple of tweaks.
Getting your WiFi password can be a bit of a hassle, but once you know the ropes in Windows, it’s a doddle. Before long, you won’t even think twice — it’ll be as easy as grabbing a cuppa down at the local. Just remember to keep your passwords safe and sound, alright?