If you need to find a saved WiFi password on your Android phone, you don't need to hunt for the router. Android saves these credentials, and there are several ways to retrieve them.

I'll show you the easiest methods first, starting with the built-in QR code feature (no root required) and checking your Google account backup. Root-based methods should only be a last resort.

Quick Guide: The 2 Best Ways to Find Your WiFi Password

  • For Android 10 or newer: The fastest method is using the "Share" button in your WiFi settings. Go to Settings > WiFi, tap your connected network (or the gear icon), and select Share. The password will be displayed in plain text below a QR code .
  • Check Google Account: If your device syncs with Google, your WiFi password might already be saved in the Google Password Manager .

Method 1: The Easiest Way (Android 10+ QR Code)

If your phone is running Android 10 or a newer version, finding the password is straightforward. This method requires no root and takes seconds.

  1. Go to the Settings Menu: Open your phone's Settings app and select Network & Internet (or Connections on some models).
  2. Access Your WiFi Settings: Tap on "WiFi." You will see a list of networks. Tap the network you are currently connected to, or tap the gear/settings icon next to its name.
  3. Tap the "Share" Option: On the network details page, look for a "Share" button, often represented by a QR code icon.
  4. Authenticate: Your phone will ask you to verify your identity using your PIN, pattern, or fingerprint.
  5. View the Password: Once authenticated, the screen will show a QR code. The WiFi password (PSK) is displayed in plain text right below this code. You can share this with a friend or use it for another device.

Method 2: Check Your Google Account (No Root Needed)

If you've synced your Android device with your Google account, there's a good chance your WiFi passwords are backed up. This is the second-best method, as it also does not require root access.

How Google Syncs Your WiFi Passwords When you set up an Android device, Google offers to back up device settings, including WiFi passwords. If you enabled this, the credentials are stored securely in your account.

Finding WiFi Passwords in Google Password Manager:

  1. On a computer or your phone's browser, go to passwords.google.com.
  2. Log in using the same Google account linked to your Android device.
  3. In the Password Manager search bar, type the name (SSID) of the WiFi network you are looking for.
  4. If Google has the password stored, it will appear in the results. Click on it and verify your account password to reveal the WiFi password.

Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps (Use Caution)

Several apps on the Google Play Store claim to recover WiFi passwords. However, you must be extremely cautious.

  • For Non-Rooted Phones: Most apps cannot retrieve WiFi passwords on a non-rooted phone. They can only show you passwords for networks you created (e.g., your phone's hotspot). Be skeptical of any app that claims otherwise without root access.
  • For Rooted Phones: Apps like "WiFi Password Viewer" or "WiFi Key Recovery" can work, but they require root access. This means they are only accessing the system files mentioned in Method 4.

Expert Warning: We advise against downloading random "password finder" apps. Many are ineffective, filled with ads, or, in the worst cases, malware. Stick to Method 1 and 2 for security.

Method 4: Accessing System Files (Root Access Required)

This is the original, most technical method, but it should be your absolute last resort. This method requires root access, which gives you administrative control over your device.

Warning: Understand the Risks of Rooting

Voids Warranty: Rooting your device will almost certainly void your manufacturer's warranty. Security Risks: It compromises your phone’s security, making it more vulnerable to malware. \* Bricking: If done incorrectly, you could permanently damage your phone (known as "bricking"). Proceed only if you are an advanced user and fully understand these risks.

If you have a rooted device, the WiFi credentials are stored in a configuration file.

  1. Using a file manager that supports root access (like Root Explorer or a terminal), navigate to the following directory: /data/misc/wifi
  2. Look for the file named wpa_supplicant.conf.
  3. Open this file with a text editor.
  4. Inside, you will see blocks of text for each network. The network name is ssid="YourWiFiName" and the password is psk="YourPassword".