HowToFixWiFiSimple fixes  •  Better connection
Setup and Configuration

How to Take Wifi Password? Easy Steps for Sharing

Introduction If you have ever searched for the phrase “How to Take Wifi Password?” you are probably in one of a few common situations. Maybe a friend is visiting your home and wants to connect to your wireless network. Maybe you just bought a new phone or lapt

HowToFixWiFi

Introduction

If you have ever searched for the phrase “How to Take Wifi Password?” you are probably in one of a few common situations. Maybe a friend is visiting your home and wants to connect to your wireless network. Maybe you just bought a new phone or laptop and cannot remember the password for your own router. Maybe you are helping a family member get online, and the password is written on a scrap of paper that has mysteriously disappeared.

Despite the wording, “taking” a wifi password usually does not mean hacking into a neighbor’s network or breaking into something you do not own. In most everyday cases, it simply means retrieving, viewing, or sharing a wifi password from a device that is already connected to the network, or accessing it through your router’s administration settings.

This guide walks you through the easiest and most legitimate ways to take a wifi password and share it with others. We cover Android phones, iPhones, iPads, Windows computers, Macs, router admin panels, and QR code sharing. We also explain the legal and ethical boundaries you should respect, common troubleshooting steps, and security best practices to keep your network safe.

By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to take a wifi password from your own devices and share it securely, without needing technical expertise or risky third-party software.

Table of Contents

What Does “How to Take Wifi Password?” Really Mean?

The phrase “How to Take Wifi Password?” is a casual way of asking how to get access to a wireless network password. Depending on who is asking, it can mean several different things:

  • Viewing a saved password on a phone or computer that is already connected to the network.
  • Sharing the password with a guest so they can join the same network.
  • Recovering a forgotten password by logging into the router’s admin panel.
  • Generating a scannable code that lets someone join without typing the password manually.

It is important to distinguish this from unauthorized access. Trying to take a wifi password from a network you do not own, and have no permission to use, is a different matter entirely. This guide focuses exclusively on legitimate methods for networks you manage or have been explicitly authorized to share.

Most modern operating systems have made this process easier over the years. Instead of hunting through obscure menus, you can often reveal a saved password with a few taps or clicks, or generate a QR code that a guest can scan with their camera. The methods vary by device, which is why we break them down individually in the sections below.

Legal and Ethical Considerations Before You Begin

Before you attempt to take a wifi password from any device or router, pause to consider whether you have the right to do so. Accessing a computer network without authorization is illegal in many countries and can violate the terms of service of your internet provider.

You should only retrieve or share a wifi password if:

  • You own the router or pay for the internet service.
  • You have explicit permission from the network owner.
  • You are helping someone connect to a network you manage, such as a home, office, or guest network.

You should not attempt to take a wifi password if:

  • The network belongs to a neighbor, business, or public venue and you have not been given the password.
  • You are using software that claims to crack or hack wifi signals.
  • You are trying to bypass security controls on a device that does not belong to you.

From an ethical standpoint, sharing your own wifi password with trusted guests is generally fine. However, you may want to consider setting up a separate guest network. That way, visitors can access the internet without seeing your main network password or accessing your personal devices, printers, and shared files.

Method 1: How to Take Wifi Password from an Android Phone

Android phones make it relatively easy to share a wifi password, especially if you are running Android 10 or later. The exact menu names can vary slightly depending on whether you use a Samsung, Pixel, Motorola, or another brand, but the general process is similar.

Step 1: Make Sure Your Phone Is Connected

You can only view or share the password for a network your phone is currently connected to. Open your wifi settings and confirm that you are joined to the network whose password you want to take.

Step 2: Open Network Settings

Go to Settings, then tap Network & internet or Connections, depending on your device. Look for Internet or Wi-Fi and tap the name of the connected network or the gear icon next to it.

Step 3: Use the Share Feature

On the network details screen, look for a button labeled Share, QR code, or something similar. When you tap it, Android will ask you to authenticate using your fingerprint, face unlock, PIN, or pattern.

Step 4: View or Scan the QR Code

After authentication, your phone will display a QR code. The password is embedded in that code. Another person can open their camera app or wifi settings, scan the code, and join the network automatically. If you need the plaintext password, some Android versions show it directly below the QR code, while others require you to use a third-party QR scanner app to read the text.

Step 5: Older Android Versions

If you are using Android 9 or earlier, the built-in share feature may not be available. In those cases, the most reliable way to take the password is to log into your router’s admin panel, which we cover later in this guide. Avoid rooting your phone just to reveal a wifi password, as that can void your warranty and expose your device to security risks.

Method 2: How to Take Wifi Password from an iPhone or iPad

Apple has made wifi password sharing very straightforward on modern versions of iOS and iPadOS. If your device is running iOS 16 or later, you can view saved passwords directly in the Settings app.

Step 1: Open Wi-Fi Settings

Open the Settings app and tap Wi-Fi. Make sure you are connected to the network you want to share.

Step 2: Tap the Info Button

Find the network name in the list and tap the blue information icon (a lowercase i in a circle) next to it.

Step 3: Reveal the Password

Look for a field labeled Password. It will appear as a series of dots. Tap on the dots. iOS will ask you to authenticate using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.

Step 4: Copy or Share

Once authenticated, the password will appear in plain text. You can tap Copy to paste it into a message, email, or note. You can also use AirDrop or the Share button to send it to another Apple device nearby.

Step 5: Older iOS Versions

If you are on iOS 15 or earlier, the password is not displayed in plain text in Settings. Instead, you can use Apple’s automatic wifi password sharing feature when another iPhone or iPad tries to join the same network. Both devices must be signed into iCloud with the same Apple ID, have Bluetooth and wifi turned on, and be near each other. When the other person selects your network, your phone will ask if you want to share the password. If you tap Share, it sends the credentials automatically without showing the actual password.

Method 3: How to Take Wifi Password from a Windows PC

Windows does not show saved wifi passwords in the main Settings app, but you can retrieve them using the Command Prompt or PowerShell. This method works on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator

Click the Start button, type Command Prompt or cmd, right-click the result, and select Run as administrator. Click Yes if a user account control prompt appears.

Step 2: List Saved Wifi Profiles

Type the following command and press Enter:

netsh wlan show profiles

This displays a list of every wifi network your computer has connected to in the past. Find the exact name of the network you want.

Step 3: Show the Password

Type the following command, replacing “NETWORKNAME” with the actual name of your wifi network, and press Enter:

netsh wlan show profile name="NETWORKNAME" key=clear

Scroll through the results until you see the Security settings section. Look for a line that says Key Content. The text next to it is your wifi password.

Step 4: Using Windows Settings (Limited)

On Windows 10 and 11, you can also go to Settings > Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Manage known networks. However, this area typically lets you view properties and forget networks, but it does not always reveal the password in plain text. The Command Prompt method is more reliable for actually taking the password.

Method 4: How to Take Wifi Password from a Mac

Mac users can retrieve saved wifi passwords through the Keychain Access app, which stores passwords for websites, apps, and wireless networks.

Step 1: Open Keychain Access

Press Command + Space to open Spotlight, type Keychain Access, and press Enter. Alternatively, you can find it in the Applications > Utilities folder.

Step 2: Search for Your Network

In the Keychain Access window, use the search bar in the top-right corner to type the name of your wifi network. Double-click the result that matches your network name and has the kind AirPort network password.

Step 3: Show the Password

A small window will open with details about the network. At the bottom, check the box that says Show password. macOS will ask for your administrator username and password or use Touch ID to verify your identity.

Step 4: Copy the Password

After authentication, the password field will show the actual text. You can copy it and send it to a guest, save it in a password manager, or write it down in a secure place.

Method 5: How to Take Wifi Password from Your Router Admin Panel

If you cannot find the password on any connected device, or if you need to change it, your router’s administration panel is the ultimate source. This method works regardless of whether you are using a phone, tablet, or computer.

Step 1: Find Your Router’s IP Address

Most routers use an address like 192.168.1.1, 192.168.0.1, or 10.0.0.1. On Windows, open Command Prompt and type ipconfig. Look for the Default Gateway under your active network adapter. On a Mac, go to System Settings > Network, select your connection, click Details, and look under TCP/IP for the Router address.

Step 2: Log In to the Admin Panel

Open a web browser and type the router’s IP address into the address bar. You will see a login screen. Enter the admin username and password. If you never changed these, they might be printed on a sticker on the router or in the manual. Common defaults are admin/admin or admin/password.

Step 3: Navigate to Wireless Settings

Once logged in, look for a menu labeled Wireless, Wi-Fi, Wireless Security, or WLAN. The exact layout depends on your router brand, such as TP-Link, Netgear, ASUS, or Linksys.

Step 4: View or Change the Password

Find the field labeled WPA Pre-Shared Key, PSK, Password, or Passphrase. This is your current wifi password. You can copy it to share with someone, or type a new one if you want to change it. If you change it, remember that all currently connected devices will be disconnected and will need to reconnect with the new password.

Step 5: Save and Log Out

Click Save, Apply, or Save Changes. Then log out of the admin panel to keep your router secure. If you changed the password, update any devices that need to stay connected.

Method 6: Sharing Wifi Password Using QR Codes

QR codes are one of the most convenient ways to share a wifi password without reading it aloud or typing it manually. Many modern phones can generate and scan wifi QR codes natively.

Step 1: Generate the QR Code

On Android, use the built-in share feature described earlier. On an iPhone, you can use the Shortcuts app or a trusted third-party shortcut to create a wifi QR code. On a computer, you can use reputable online generators, but be cautious about entering your password into a website you do not trust.

Step 2: Display or Print the Code

Show the QR code on your screen or print it out and place it near your router. Guests can open their camera app, point it at the code, and tap the notification that appears to join the network.

Step 3: Understand What the Code Contains

A wifi QR code typically contains the network name (SSID), the encryption type such as WPA or WPA2, and the password. Anyone who can scan the code can join the network, so treat the QR code with the same care as the password itself.

Comparison Table: Wifi Password Sharing Methods

The table below compares the main methods discussed so far so you can choose the one that fits your situation.

Method Best Device Difficulty Speed Shows Plaintext Password? Best For
Android Built-in Share Android 10+ Easy Fast Sometimes Quick guest sharing via QR code
iOS Settings iPhone/iPad iOS 16+ Easy Fast Yes Viewing and copying your own password
iOS Automatic Sharing iPhone/iPad iOS 15- Easy Fast No Sharing between Apple devices without revealing text
Command Prompt Windows 10/11 Moderate Moderate Yes Retrieving saved passwords on a PC
Keychain Access Mac Moderate Moderate Yes Retrieving saved passwords on macOS
Router Admin Panel Any device with browser Moderate Moderate Yes Changing or recovering the master password
QR Code Any smartphone Easy Fast No (scanned) Guest access without typing

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the right instructions, things do not always go smoothly. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.

QR Code Will Not Scan

Make sure the QR code is not blurry or too small. Increase the brightness on your screen if you are displaying it digitally. If you printed it, make sure the paper is flat and well-lit. Some older phones need a dedicated QR scanner app instead of the default camera.

Password Will Not Reveal

If the password field will not show after authentication, double-check that you are logged into an administrator account on your computer or that you are using the correct biometric or passcode on your phone. On older operating systems, the option simply may not exist, and you should use the router admin panel instead.

Cannot Log Into Router

If the default admin username and password do not work, check the sticker on your router or look up the default credentials for your specific model. If someone changed the admin password and you do not know it, you may need to reset the router to factory settings. This will erase your custom wifi name and password, so only do this as a last resort.

Device Is Not Connected to the Network

Most built-in methods require the device to be connected to the network at the time you retrieve the password. If you no longer have access to a connected device, the router admin panel is usually your best option.

Guest Cannot Connect After Sharing

Make sure you shared the correct password and that the guest is selecting the right network name. If you recently changed the router password, all devices must reconnect with the new one. Also check whether your router has a client limit or MAC filtering enabled that might block new devices.

Security Tips and Best Practices

Knowing how to take a wifi password is useful, but protecting that password is just as important. Follow these best practices to keep your network secure.

  • Use a guest network: Many routers let you create a separate wifi network for visitors. This keeps your main network and connected devices isolated from guest traffic.
  • Change default router credentials: The admin username and password that come with your router are often easy to guess. Change them as soon as you set up the device.
  • Use WPA3 or WPA2: Avoid older security standards like WEP, which are easy to crack. WPA3 is the most secure option if your router supports it.
  • Do not share passwords publicly: Avoid posting your wifi password on social media, in public chats, or on printed signs in shared spaces unless you intend for anyone to use it.
  • Use a password manager: Instead of writing passwords on sticky notes, save them in a reputable password manager where they are encrypted and easy to retrieve.
  • Update router firmware: Manufacturers release security patches periodically. Check your router’s admin panel for updates every few months.
  • Turn off WPS: Wi-Fi Protected Setup can be convenient, but it has known security vulnerabilities. Disable it if you do not need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it legal to take a wifi password?

It is legal to retrieve or share a wifi password for a network you own or have explicit permission to use. It is generally illegal to access a network without authorization, so never attempt to take a password from a network that does not belong to you.

Can I take a wifi password if I am not connected to the network?

Most phone and computer methods require the device to be connected to the network. If you are not connected, your best option is to log into the router’s admin panel, provided you have the admin credentials.

Is sharing a wifi password through a QR code safe?

It is safe for sharing with people you trust, but anyone who scans the code can join your network. Treat a printed or shared QR code like you would treat the written password itself.

What if I forgot my router admin password?

Check the sticker on your router for default login details. If you changed the password and forgot it, you may need to perform a factory reset on the router, which will restore default settings and erase your custom wifi configuration.

Are there apps that can take any wifi password?

Be very cautious with apps that claim to reveal or hack any wifi password. Most are ineffective, and many contain malware or adware. Stick to the built-in methods described in this guide.

Can I share a wifi password from an iPhone to an Android phone?

Apple’s automatic password sharing works between Apple devices. To share with an Android user, generate a QR code or manually send the password through a message or email.

Will resetting my router change my wifi password?

Yes. A factory reset restores the router to its default settings, including the default wifi name and password printed on the device. You will need to set up your network again afterward.

Can I see the password for a hidden network?

If your device has previously connected to a hidden network, the password may be saved in the same way as any other network. You can retrieve it using the methods for your device, provided you know the exact network name.

Conclusion

Learning how to take a wifi password does not require advanced technical skills or questionable software. Whether you are using an Android phone, an iPhone, a Windows PC, a Mac, or your router’s admin panel, there is a straightforward method for retrieving or sharing your wireless credentials.

The key is to use the right method for your device and to always respect legal and ethical boundaries. Only take or share passwords for networks you own or have permission to use. When guests visit, consider using a QR code or a separate guest network to make the process easier while keeping your main network secure.

If you run into trouble, start with the simplest option: check whether your phone or computer is already connected and look for a built-in share or reveal feature. If that does not work, the router admin panel is your most reliable fallback.

By following the steps and best practices in this guide, you can confidently help friends, family, and colleagues get online without compromising your own security.