There’s no question about it: you need internet access. In the modern world, having access to your own internet connection is hugely important for everything from finances to employment to entertainment and social interactions. Additionally, if you want to stay safe while browsing the internet, you should have a strong password protecting your router. Unfortunately, default passwords for the average router are often impossible to remember, making it hard to log on to your network when you’re in a pinch. This is necessary in this day and age, but it adds a layer of inconvenience when getting connected.
Fortunately, finding your Wi-Fi password on your Android device doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, you should be able to do it without looking at the bottom of your router and shouting random letters, numbers, and special characters at your friend on the other side of the room. That’s right; you’ll be able to see your password, clear as day, on your device, without all that hassle, as long as you follow a few simple steps.
We’ll show you exactly how to see your Wi-Fi password on an Android device, explain when you might need to do so, and how you can further secure your Wi-Fi password and any other passwords you might have from those hoping to catch you slacking on security.
When do you need to see your Wi-Fi password?
The first time you set up Wi-Fi for your home, finding the password is easy. In all likelihood, the complicated login was taped to the bottom of your router, which you had easy access to, given you were just deciding where it would go. And maybe you changed that password to something meaningful or easier for you to remember. In that case, you can’t even look at the label when you need to connect in the future. So, if a friend comes to visit your home, you bought a new device, or if you need to log in for some other reason, you need that password. That’s where these handy tricks for finding your Wi-Fi password on your device can help.
How to find your Wi-Fi password on an Android device
Your Wi-Fi password is just a few clicks away on any of your Android devices. As long as you’ve signed in before and can unlock your phone, you’ll be able to easily connect to your network or share it with friends after following these simple steps. Also, it’s worth noting that, as should be expected from any modern operating system like Android, finding your Wi-Fi password whether you’re on a phone or a tablet. The setting menu is virtually identical, save a few tablet-facing features, so you should be able to navigate your Wi-Fi password search easily, whether you’re using a Pixel 6 Pro or a tablet running Android 12L.
Note: This method for finding the Wi-Fi password on your Android phone works for all devices operating on Android 10 or above. The majority of Android devices are at least on this version.
1. First, go to the Settings menu.
2. Click on Network & internet.
3. Select Internet.
4. Find the network you need the password for.
5. Click on the gear icon to the right of the network.
6. Select the Share button with the QR code icon.
7. You’ll confirm your unlock code.
8. Scan the QR code or copy and paste your password underneath it.
If you’re not big on QR codes — which must be hard when you go to restaurants nowadays — have no fear. Directly beneath the QR code, Android will display your password for easy copy and pasting. While you might not be able to see it in the above screenshot to protect my own Wi-Fi network security, rest assured, the password will be visible outside of the QR code.
And that’s it! You’ll be able to share or view your password seamlessly and even allow friends to scan the QR code to log in to your network. Now, be sure to check out our guide to sharing your Wi-Fi password from iPhone to Android if you have any trouble with the cross-operating system procedure. And remember, while it may be tempting, don’t go giving it to just anyone.
How to secure your password
While sharing your Wi-Fi password with visiting friends is mostly harmless, most password sharing is not recommended under any circumstance. As the first line of defense against online security threats, keeping your password secret is the only way to ensure your network is protected from nefarious actors. Even more so, a strong password can be the difference between a secured account and a weekend of canceling credit cards.
Still, with dozens of accounts and poor short-term memory, the odds of the average user following password best practices are slim. In fact, the average user still has a weak password that they use for multiple accounts, opening the door for hackers to do whatever they want with your personal information. Subsequently, you might need some help securing your accounts, and password managers are a great first step. They provide added layers of security that can keep your information safe and alert you when your passwords have been compromised. We’ve rounded up some of the best password managers for you, so you can keep your personal information safe.
Honestly, just get a password manager
Additionally, if you don’t feel like shelling out a few extra bucks for extra security, Google provides a free password manager with its various services. It’s considerably more limited when it comes to features, but as long as the passwords within the service are robust, you should be more than safe to use it regularly. Either way, getting a password manager is infinitely easier and more secure when sharing passwords with friends or just keeping your information safe when online.
