A forgotten Wi-Fi password becomes an obstacle when trying to connect a new gadget, but an Android smartphone or tablet that is already on the network stores this data in its memory and allows you to restore it.
The process of restoring access depends on version Androidinstalled on your device, as well as the availability root access. Starting with the tenth version, Google has introduced a convenient function for generating QR codes, which makes the procedure elementary. However, for devices running on older builds, users will have to resort to the help of third-party software or file managers with elevated privileges.
In this article we will analyze in detail all the current methods, from standard settings to advanced methods for experienced users. You will learn where network configuration files are stored and how to interpret them correctly. It is important to understand that data security is a priority of the system, so direct access to passwords is often limited without special authorization.
Normal method via QR code on Android 10 and later
Starting from Android 10, the developers have implemented a native network sharing function via a QR code. This is the easiest and safest method that does not require installation of additional software. Just go to the wireless connection settings to get a visual representation of the access key.
First, go to section Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi. Find the network you are currently connected to in the list and click on the gear icon next to its name. In the menu that opens, you must select the option QR code or Share.
After confirming your identity using a fingerprint or PIN code, a unique code will appear on the screen. Below it is often a text string with the password in clear text. If the text is hidden by asterisks, you can take a screenshot of the screen and open it in any application for reading QR codes or in Google Lens.
If there is no text password under the QR code, just point the camera of the second phone at the screen - most modern scanners will automatically recognize the network and offer to connect, showing the password in the notification.
This method works reliably on shells from Samsung, Xiaomi and pure Android. However, the interface may vary slightly depending on the device manufacturer. The main requirement is to have the current version of the operating system.
Viewing saved networks in the settings of Android 12+
In more recent updates, such as Android 12 and Android 13, the functionality has been expanded. Now users can see not only the current network, but also a list of all previously saved connections with the ability to view their parameters.
Go to the menu Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi. Scroll down the list to Saved networks. This displays the history of all access points to which your gadget has ever connected. By clicking on a specific network, you will see a button to generate a QR code or view details.
The system will require re-authentication to protect sensitive data. This is a standard security measure to prevent unauthorized people from accessing your connection history. Once unlocked, you can copy the password or transfer it to another device.
⚠️ Attention: On some custom firmware (for example, MIUI or EMUI), the path to saved networks may differ. Look for the "Network Management" or "Advanced Wi-Fi Settings" section.
The convenience of this method is that there is no need to use third-party applications. All data is stored in an encrypted system storage and is decrypted only at the request of a user with device owner rights.
Using file managers without root access
For devices based on older OS versions that do not have a QR code function, you can try using advanced file managers. Some of them are able to read certain system logs or configurations without the need to gain full superuser access.
However, it is worth understanding that on modern versions of Android, access to the directory /data/misc/wifi is strictly limited. Without root, you will only be able to see network names (SSIDs), but not encryption keys (PSKs). The exception is some models with an unlocked bootloader.
Try installing an application like WiFi Password Viewer from the Google Play store. Run it and provide the necessary permissions. If an application asks for root access and you have not granted it, it will only show a limited list of data.
- 📱 Download a reliable file manager that supports system folders.
- 🔍 Go to the root directory and find the folder
data. - 🔐 Try opening the file
wpa_supplicant.conf(access may be denied). - 📝 If the file is opened, look for the line psk="your_password".
This method is rather experimental for ordinary users. It only works in specific cases when the device manufacturer has left certain security gaps or the file system has special access rights.
Obtaining a password via root access and terminal
If your device has root access, the password extraction process becomes trivial and available for any version of Android. You get full control over the file system and can read any configuration files directly.
To do this, you will need a terminal emulator, for example Termux or the built-in console in file managers like Root Explorer. After starting the terminal, you need to obtain superuser rights with the command su.
su
cat /data/misc/wifi/wpa_supplicant.conf
Executing this command will display the contents of the file in which all saved networks are stored. In the block network={...} you will find the parameter ssid (network name) and psk (plaintext password).
What to do if the command does not work?
Make sure that the device really has root access. Check for a superuser manager (Magisk, SuperSU). If the file is not found, it may have a different name or is located in a different directory depending on the firmware.
⚠️ Warning: Getting root access will void the device warranty and may lead to data loss if configured incorrectly. Proceed with caution and create backups.
Using the console gives the most accurate results. You see “raw” data without any graphical shell, which eliminates interpretation errors. This is a professional method used by system administrators.
Third-party applications for access recovery
There are many utilities in the Google Play store that promise to show forgotten passwords. The effectiveness of such apps directly depends on the version of Android and the availability of superuser rights. Most of them work as a wrapper for system files.
Applications like WiFi Password Recovery or WiFi Key Recovery require root access to function fully. Without it, they often only show placeholders or advertising messages. Before installation, carefully read reviews and system requirements.
Some advanced utilities use the Accessibility Service to automatically read data from system dialogs, but this method is less reliable and may be blocked by Google security updates.
| Application name | Requires Root | Works on Android 10+ | Security rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| WiFi Password Viewer | Yes | Limited | Average |
| Root Explorer | Yes | Full access | High |
| WiFi Key Recovery | Yes | Limited | Medium |
| ES Explorer | No (partially) | Low | Low |
The effectiveness of third-party applications on new versions of Android tends to zero without root access due to strengthened security policies (Scoped Storage).
Be careful when downloading such software. Many free apps contain aggressive advertising or collect telemetry. Check the permissions that the application requests before installation.
Recovery via the router web interface
If mobile methods do not work, there is always a universal option - logging into the router control panel. This method does not depend on the Android version and works even on completely locked devices if there is a network connection.
Open the browser on your smartphone and enter the IP address of the router (usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1). The address is often indicated on a sticker on the bottom of the device. You will need an administrator login and password.
After authorization, go to the Wireless or Wireless modesection. In the Security settings you will see a password field (WPA/WPA2 Key). Often it can be made visible by clicking on the eye icon.
⚠️ Attention: Your router login information may be changed by your provider. If standard admin/admin are not suitable, contact the technical support of your Internet provider.
☑️ Checking access to the router
This method is the most reliable, since the password is stored directly in the configuration of the network equipment. Even if the phone has “forgotten” the network, the router continues to store the current access keys.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to find out the password for someone else's WiFi without connecting to it?
No, this is impossible using legal methods. The password is required specifically to establish a connection. Attempts to hack other people's networks are a violation of the law.
Why is the password not displayed under the QR code on Android 11?
It depends on the manufacturer’s shell. Some brands (for example, early versions of MIUI) hid the text password, leaving only the code. In this case, use the QR scanner on another device.
Is it safe to use password recovery applications?
Only if they have a high rating and are downloaded from the official store. Applications that require root access can potentially gain access to all your data, so trust only trusted developers.
What should I do if I forgot the password for the router’s admin panel?
The only way out is to reset the router to factory settings (Reset button on the case). After this, the device will return to the standard data indicated on the sticker, but the Internet settings will have to be configured again.
Where is the file with passwords on Android physically stored?
System file wpa_supplicant.conf located in a protected directory /data/misc/wifi/. Only a user with superuser rights (root) has access to this folder.