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
You might need your Wi-Fi password, also called a network security key in Windows 11, 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?
No. The Wi-Fi security key is for connecting devices to the internet. The router admin password lets you change settings in your router’s control panel. They are usually different unless you manually set them to be the same.
Check Your Modem First
Most routers have a sticker on the back or bottom. Look for the SSID (your network name) and the security key printed there. This is the default password provided by your internet company. If you changed it, the sticker will not show the current password.
Method 1Use the Settings App
You can easily find your Wi-Fi security key in Windows 11 using the Settings app, which is the simplest method for most users.
Step 3: Click on Properties for your current network.
Step 4: Scroll down to View Wi-Fi security key and click the View button.
Step 5: A window will pop up, revealing your password.
Step 6: Close the app when finished.
Method 2Use the Command Prompt
If you’re comfortable with text commands, you can find your Wi-Fi security key in Windows 11 using the Command Prompt by following a few simple steps.
Step 1 (Admin Required): Click Start, type cmd, right-click it, and select Run as administrator.
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: Find 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.
Warning: Never share your security key with unknown third parties. This allows them to use your internet and potentially access your private files.
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 is simple 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.
Was this guide helpful?
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.
[…] network profile includes the security key, SSID, and other information, which can be used to reconnect to the Wi-Fi […]
[…] you want to learn how to connect to Wi-Fi networks or find your Wi-Fi password, check out these helpful […]