Directly in the settings menu of a Samsung smartphone running the One UI shell, you can instantly view the forgotten password from an active access point by simply opening the section with Wi-Fi security settings, instead of resetting the network configuration or guessing a combination of characters.
In contrast from many other manufacturers, the Korean giant allows users to not only change, but also view current encryption keys without having to reset network settings. This is especially convenient if you urgently need to connect a new device, and dictating a complex set of characters from the screen is inconvenient. However, the procedure may differ slightly depending on the version of the operating system Android and interface modification.
In this article we will analyze in detail all possible ways to recover lost information. We will look at standard settings menus, features of working with QR codes and nuances associated with superuser rights. You will learn how to quickly find the desired section and avoid common mistakes when configuring network equipment.
Searching for a password through standard One UI settings
The most reliable and safe way to find out a forgotten combination is to access the built-in configuration menu. The interface Samsung is logically structured, so you can find the desired item in a few clicks. Go to the main menu Settings and select the section responsible for wireless connections. Depending on the firmware version, it may be called “Connections” or have an icon in the form of a planet with orbits.
Next you need to find the item Mobile hotspot and modem. This is where all the parameters related to broadcasting the Internet signal are hidden. Click on this section to expand additional management options. If you use a hotkey in the notification shade, a long press on the hotspot icon will also redirect you to this menu.
Select the line Mobile hotspot (not a switch, but the name of the section). A screen will open in front of you with the current distribution status and network name (SSID). A Passwordfield will be displayed at the very bottom of this screen or immediately below the network name. By default, the symbols are hidden with dots for security, but there is usually an eye icon or an edit button nearby.
⚠️ Attention: On some older firmware versions, the password may not be displayed in clear text if it was set by the carrier's system applications. In this case, the field will be inactive for viewing.
Click on the pencil icon or the button to change settings. A window will open where you can not only change the network name and security type, but also see the current access key in the text field. Now you can copy it or just rewrite it. This is a standard method that does not require the installation of third-party software and guarantees the stability of the system.
Using a QR code for quick connection
Modern shell versions One UI implemented the generation function QR codes for instant connection of guests. This method has become a real salvation for those who do not want to manually enter long and complex combinations of characters. If your goal is simply to connect the device, and not to find out the text password string itself, this method is the most effective.
In the same access point setup menu where you changed the network settings, pay attention to the bottom of the screen. There is often a button QR code or a scanner icon located there. When you click on it, the system generates a unique image containing encrypted information about the name of the network, the type of encryption and the access key itself.
To connect, just point the camera of the second device (smartphone, tablet or laptop with the appropriate software) at the screen of your Samsung. The system will automatically recognize the code and offer to connect to the network without entering a password. This eliminates the risk of typing errors and saves time.
If you do not have a second scanning device, take a screenshot of the QR code. Then open the image through Google Lens or any QR code scanner on the same phone - it will decipher the text and show the password in a readable form.
However, if it is critical for you to see the text version of the password, and not just connect, a QR code can still help. Many scanners, after recognition, display a link like WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:MyPassword;;. In this line, the value after P: is your desired password. This is a convenient lifehack for retrieving data without digging deep into the menu.
Viewing features on different versions of Android
The interface of mobile operating systems is constantly evolving, and what worked on Android 9may look different on Android 13. Users often encounter difficulties precisely because the instructions on the Internet do not match the actual version of the software. Let's look at the key differences in navigation for current versions of the system.
On devices with Android 10 i One UI 2.0 the path to the password was as direct as possible. The user just had to click on the text of the password field and it would become visible. In newer versions, starting with Android 11 and One UI 3.0, manufacturers have strengthened security measures. Now, to view your password, you often need to confirm your identity via biometrics (fingerprint, face) or enter a screen unlock PIN.
| Android version / One UI | Path to settings | Authentication requirement | Possibility copy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android 9 / One UI 1.0 | Settings > Connections | No | Manual input |
| Android 10 / One UI 2.0 | Settings > Connections > Access point | No | Via menu |
| Android 11 / One UI 3.0 | Settings > Connections > Access Point | Fingerprint/PIN | Copy button |
| Android 12+ / One UI 4.0+ | Settings > Connections > Access Point | Biometrics | Direct view |
It is important to consider that in the latest versions Android 13 i 14 the company Google has introduced the “Quick access to Wi-Fi passwords” function. While it primarily concerns saved networks, the logic extends to the access point as well. If the system requests biometrics, this is normal behavior designed to protect your data from prying eyes in case the phone falls into the wrong hands.
What to do if the fingerprint scanner does not work?
If biometric authentication does not work due to wet fingers or damage to the sensor, the system will automatically offer an alternative input method - a digital PIN code or a pattern, set to lock screen. Make sure that you remember the device unlock code, and not the password for your Samsung account.
Problems with displaying the password and their solution
Sometimes users are faced with a situation where the password field is locked, gray, or missing altogether. This can be confusing, especially if you own the device. Most often, this problem is associated with restrictions imposed by the cellular operator or corporate security policies.
If you are using a tariff with unlimited Internet distribution, the operator may programmatically block the ability to change or view the access point settings. In this case, a message may appear in the menu indicating that the function is limited by the provider. The only solution in this situation is to reset the access point to factory defaults, which will generate a new random password.
⚠️ Attention: Resetting the access point will delete the current password. All previously connected devices will lose connection and will require you to enter a new combination of characters.
It is also worth checking whether the “Data Saver” mode or special energy saving profiles are activated. Sometimes aggressive battery optimization settings can limit the functionality of network modules, making some menu items unavailable for editing. Try disabling the power saving mode and rebooting your smartphone.
In rare cases, the problem lies in a software conflict after a firmware update. If the Settings menu isn't working properly, clearing the Settings app cache may help restore access to features. To do this, go to Settings > Applications, find the system settings application and select the option to clear the cache.
☑️ Diagnosing a password problem
View password via configuration files (root access)
For advanced users with superuser rights (Root), there is a more in-depth method for obtaining information about network settings. This method allows you to extract the password directly from the system configuration files, bypassing the graphical interface. However, it requires caution and understanding of the file system structure Android.
Data about access points and saved networks is stored in a file wpa_supplicant.conf or in a specific database inside a directory /data/misc/wifi/. To access these files, you need a file manager with support for root access, for example Root Explorer or Solid Explorer with the appropriate permissions.
sucd /data/misc/wifi
cat wpa_supplicant.conf
Opening this file, you will see a list of all networks to which the device was connected, including the created access point. The password you are looking for will be in the field psk next to your network name (SSID). This method is universal and works even in cases where the interface One UI hides information for unknown reasons.
Obtaining root access will void the warranty on the device and can lead to disruption of banking applications. Use this method only if you are fully aware of the risks and other methods have not helped.
⚠️ Attention: Incorrect editing of system files may cause the Wi-Fi module to stop working altogether. Never change access rights to system folders unless absolutely necessary.
Security and recommendations for creating a strong key
After you have found or recovered your password, it’s time to think about its reliability. Weak combinations like “12345678” or “password” are easily picked up by attackers using specialized software. Protecting your access point is the protection of your traffic and personal data transmitted over the network.
It is recommended to use the encryption type WPA2 PSK or, if the device supports, WPA3. These protocols provide the highest level of protection currently available. Avoid using the outdated WEP standard, as it can be cracked in minutes, even by a novice.
The ideal password should contain at least 12 characters, include uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special characters. Don't use obvious information such as date of birth or phone number. Changing your password regularly, although inconvenient, is a best practice for maintaining network security.
Use password managers to store complex combinations. This way you don’t have to remember them or write them down on pieces of paper that might get lost.
Remember that an open access point without a password makes your traffic visible to everyone around you. Anyone within range can intercept data packets if you visit sites without HTTPS. Therefore, always install protection, even if you only share the Internet with friends.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the password for the access point if the phone is locked?
No, it is impossible. To access network settings and view the password, you must unlock the device and pass authentication. This is done to protect your data from unauthorized access.
What to do if the "Show password" button is inactive?
Try clicking on the pencil icon to edit the settings. If this does not help, there may be carrier restrictions in effect. In this case, only resetting the access point will help, which will generate a new key.
Does changing the password affect connected devices?
Yes, immediately after changing the password, all devices connected to your access point will be disabled. They will need to enter a new combination of characters to reconnect.
Where is the history of connections to my access point stored?
In the access point settings menu there is a section “Connected devices”. It displays a list of current clients, their MAC addresses and the amount of traffic spent. However, the history of past connections is usually not saved in clear form.
Is it possible to set a password without numbers, only letters?
Technically this is possible, but not recommended. The WPA2/WPA3 security protocols allow the use of any characters, but combinations of only letters are less resistant to brute-force attacks. It is better to combine different types of characters.