Ever needed to connect a new device to your WiFi but realized you forgot the password? You’re not alone. This guide is for anyone who has a Windows 10 PC already connected to a WiFi network and wants to retrieve that saved password without installing any third-party software. By the end, you’ll have the plain-text password copied and ready to use.
What You’ll Need
- A Windows 10 PC that is currently connected to the WiFi network (or has connected in the past).
- Administrator access (you’re probably already logged in as an admin).
- No additional software—this method uses built-in Windows tools.
Step 1: Open Network & Internet Settings
Right-click the network icon in your taskbar (the one that looks like a globe or Wi‑Fi bars). From the menu, select “Open Network & Internet settings.” This opens the Settings app on the Status page. If you prefer a more technical approach, you can also use the command prompt method to find saved WiFi passwords.
Step 2: Go to Network and Sharing Center
Scroll down on the Status page and click “Network and Sharing Center.” This classic Control Panel applet lists all your active networks. If you can’t find it, you can also type “Network and Sharing Center” into the Start menu search.
Step 3: Access Your WiFi Network Details
In the Network and Sharing Center window, look for your active WiFi network name next to “Connections.” Click on that name (it’s a blue link). A small “Wi‑Fi Status” window will pop up.
Step 4: Open Wireless Properties
In the Wi‑Fi Status window, click the “Wireless Properties” button. This opens another dialog where you can see security settings. This method is similar to the WiFi password recovery for Windows 10 PC described in our other guide.
Step 5: Reveal the Password
Go to the “Security” tab. You’ll see a field labeled “Network security key” with dots hiding the password. Check the box that says “Show characters.” The password will appear in plain text. Write it down or take a photo—you’re done!
Common Pitfalls
- Not connected to the network: This method only works for networks your PC has connected to and saved. If you’re not currently connected, try the recover using CMD method, which lists all saved profiles.
- Different user account: If you’re signed in as a different user than the one that originally saved the network, you may not see the password. Ask the original user to log in, or use the beginners’ guide to alternative methods.
- Password field is blank or grayed out: Sometimes network administrators set policies that hide the password. In that case, consider our recovery after system crash guide for other options.
Where to Next
Now that you have your WiFi password, you can connect your phone, tablet, or any other device. If you often forget passwords, consider backing them up with a password manager. For more advanced methods, check out our guides on the command prompt method or WiFi password recovery for Windows 10 PC. Happy surfing!
