How to Find WiFi Password on Windows 10 – 3 Easy Methods (2026 Guide)

Forgetting your WiFi password is frustrating, especially when you need to connect a new device or share access with a guest. Windows 10 stores every WiFi network you have ever connected to, and the password is just a few clicks away. You do not need third-party software or technical expertise to retrieve it.

In this guide, we walk you through three simple methods to find your WiFi password on Windows 10. These techniques work on all versions of Windows 10, including the latest 2026 updates.

Method 1: Find WiFi Password via Network Settings

This is the quickest way to view your current WiFi password. It requires no commands and works directly from the system tray.

1. Click the WiFi icon in the bottom-right corner of your taskbar.
2. Select Network & Internet settings from the menu that appears.
3. Click on Change adapter options (or View network status and tasks depending on your build).
4. Right-click your connected WiFi network and select Status.
5. In the pop-up window, click Wireless Properties.
6. Switch to the Security tab and check the box labeled Show characters.

Your WiFi password will appear in the Network security key field. This method only works for the network you are currently connected to.

Method 2: Find WiFi Password Using Command Prompt

Command Prompt reveals the passwords for every WiFi network your PC has ever connected to. This is useful if you need a password for an old network.

1. Press Windows Key + S and type Command Prompt.
2. Right-click Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. Type the following command and press Enter:
   netsh wlan show profile
4. This displays a list of all saved WiFi networks. Find your network name in the list.
5. Now type this command (replace WiFiName with your actual network name):
   netsh wlan show profile WiFiName key=clear
6. Look under Security Settings for the Key Content field. That is your password.

This method is especially handy when you need a saved password but are no longer connected to that network. For more Windows 10 tips, check our guide on how to increase internet speed in Windows 10 for better network performance.

Method 3: Find WiFi Password via Router Admin Page

If you have access to the router, you can view or change the WiFi password directly from the admin dashboard.

1. Open a web browser and type your router’s IP address into the URL bar. Common addresses are 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
2. Enter the admin username and password. These are often printed on a sticker on the back or bottom of the router. Default credentials are usually admin / admin or admin / password.
3. Navigate to the Wireless or WiFi section.
4. Look for Wireless Security or Security Options. Your password is displayed in the passphrase or pre-shared key field.
5. If your router supports both 2.4GHz and 5GHz bands, check both sections as they may have different passwords.

This method also lets you change the password or adjust other settings. For additional Windows maintenance tips, read how to schedule an automatic shutdown on Windows 10.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I find my WiFi password without admin rights?

Method 1 (Network Settings) and Method 2 (Command Prompt) both work with standard user accounts, though Command Prompt requires administrator privileges. If you do not have admin access, stick with the Network Settings method.

What if I cannot see the Show characters checkbox?

This option is only available when you are currently connected to the WiFi network. If you are not connected, use Method 2 (Command Prompt) or Method 3 (Router Admin Page) instead.

How do I find my default router IP address?

Open Command Prompt and type ipconfig. Look for the Default Gateway entry under your active network adapter. That IP address is your router’s login page.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to retrieve your WiFi password saves time and eliminates the need to reset the router every time someone asks for the password. Method 1 is the fastest for your current network, while Method 2 is best for recovering old saved passwords. Method 3 gives you full control over your network settings.

For more Windows 10 guides, explore our article on how to access the WindowsApps folder on Windows 10 and learn to fix error code 43 for hardware issues.