How to Find Wi-Fi Security Key in Windows 11
This guide shows you how to find your Wi-Fi password on a Windows 11 computer.
You can find your Wi-Fi password in Windows 11 through Settings by going to Network & internet > Wi-Fi > Properties, then clicking “View Wi-Fi security key.” Alternatively, use the Command Prompt with the command netsh wlan show profile name=”YourNetworkName” key=clear.
Why You Might Need Your Wi-Fi Password
Here’s why you might need your Wi-Fi password. In Windows 11, it’s also known as a network security key. You’ll need it to connect a new device to your home network or to share access with a visitor.
Is the Wi-Fi Security Key the Same as the Router Admin Password?
The Wi-Fi security key connects your devices to the internet. In contrast, the router admin password changes your router’s settings, which you usually access through a web browser. These two passwords are typically different unless you’ve set them to be the same. For instance, the router admin password could be "admin12345".
Check Your Modem First
Your Wi-Fi router usually has a sticker on its back or bottom. This sticker lists the SSID, which is your network name, and the security key, which is your password. This printed security key is the default password from your internet provider. If you’ve changed the password since you received the router, the sticker won’t reflect the current password.
Method 1Use the Settings App
The Settings app offers a way to find your Wi-Fi security key in Windows 11. You can view your network password by clicking on your current Wi-Fi network within the settings and then selecting the option to view the security key.
Step 3: Click on Properties for your current network.
Step 4: Then, scroll down to View Wi-Fi security key and click the View button.
Step 5: Your password will then appear in a new window.
Step 6: Finally, close the app when you’re finished.
Method 2Use the Command Prompt
For those who prefer text commands, you can find your Wi-Fi security key in Windows 11 using the Command Prompt. After opening Command Prompt as an administrator (this means you need elevated permissions), you’ll type a specific command. You’ll need to replace a placeholder with your network’s name to reveal the password.
Step 2: Type the following command and press Enter:
netsh wlan show profile name="YourNetworkName" key=clear
Replace YourNetworkName with your actual network name. Step 3: Look for the ‘Key Content’ line in the output – that’s your password.
Troubleshooting and Advanced Tips
If you’re having trouble finding your Wi-Fi security key in Windows 11, the Network and Sharing Center offers an alternative way to view it.
Exporting Your Network Profile
You can save your network settings to a file. (Admin Required) Open Command Prompt as administrator and type:
netsh wlan export profile name="YourNetworkName" folder=C:\Users\Public
This creates an XML file in your Public folder containing your network security details.
Summary
Finding your Wi-Fi security key in Windows 11 can be done using either the Settings app or Command Prompt.
Can I see the password for a network I am not currently connected to?
Yes, you can. Windows 11 stores profiles for every network you have previously joined. By using the Command Prompt method with the specific profile name, you can retrieve the security key for any saved network, even if you are currently disconnected from it.
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About the Author
Richard
Tech Writer, IT Professional
Richard, a writer for Geek Rewind, is a tech enthusiast who loves breaking down complex IT topics into simple, easy-to-understand ideas. With years of hands-on experience in system administration and enterprise IT operations, he’s developed a knack for offering practical tips and solutions. Richard aims to make technology more accessible and actionable. He's deeply committed to the Geek Rewind community, always ready to answer questions and engage in discussions.
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