Have you ever needed to connect a new device, like a smart speaker or a guest’s phone, to your Wi-Fi, only to realize you’ve completely forgotten the password? You’re not alone. It’s a common situation, but thankfully, if you have a laptop that’s already connected to that network, the password is often saved right there. You just need to know where to look.
Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, your laptop can show you the password for the network you’re currently using, and sometimes even for past networks. It’s a simple process that can save you from the hassle of resetting your router.
Finding Your Wi-Fi Password on Windows
For Windows 10 and 11 users, the password is stored within your network settings. First, right-click the Wi-Fi icon in your system tray and select Network and Internet settings. From there, click on Advanced network settings and then More network adapter options. This opens a window showing your network connections.
Right-click on your Wi-Fi connection and select Status. In the new window, click the Wireless Properties button, then navigate to the Security tab. Here, you’ll see the network security key, but it’s hidden. Simply check the box that says Show characters, and your Wi-Fi password will be revealed.
Locating Your Password on a Mac
If you’re on a Mac, the process is just as straightforward. You’ll use the Keychain Access app, which stores all your passwords. You can find it quickly by pressing Command + Spacebar to open Spotlight Search and typing “Keychain Access.”
Once the app is open, look in the left sidebar and make sure Login and Passwords are selected. Then, in the search bar in the top-right, type the name of your Wi-Fi network. Double-click on the network name in the list that appears. A new window will pop up; here, check the box at the bottom that says Show password. You’ll likely need to enter your Mac’s administrator username and password to view it.
A Quick Tip for Future Reference
Once you’ve found your password, consider writing it down in a secure place, like a notes app or a physical notebook you keep safe. This small step can save you time in the future and make it easier to connect all your devices without having to go through these steps again.
With these simple guides, you no longer have to worry about a forgotten Wi-Fi password. Your laptop holds the key, and now you know exactly how to access it whenever you need it.
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