Windows quietly stores the key for every Wi-Fi network your PC has joined, so when a guest asks for the password or you are setting up a new device, you can look it up in under a minute. Our GetMyPassword team covers the three reliable ways to find a saved Wi-Fi password on Windows 10 and 11 — through Settings, the Control Panel, and a single command — including networks you are not connected to right now.
Method 1: the connected network (Control Panel)
- Open Control Panel → Network and Sharing Center.
- Click your Wi-Fi network name next to Connections.
- Click Wireless Properties, then the Security tab.
- Tick Show characters to reveal the password.
This is the classic method and works on every modern version of Windows, but only for the network you are currently connected to.
Method 2: Windows 11 Settings
On Windows 11 you can skip the Control Panel. Go to Settings → Network & internet → Wi-Fi → (your network) Properties, and the View Wi-Fi security key button shows the password directly. It is the quickest route on a current laptop.
Method 3: any saved network (Command Prompt)
To see the key for a network you joined before but are not on now, open Command Prompt and run the line below, replacing NAME with the network name:
netsh wlan show profile name="NAME" key=clear
Look for Key Content in the output — that is your password. Run netsh wlan show profiles first if you need the exact saved names.
You need administrator rights and your Windows login to reveal these keys. That is the safeguard: anyone who can unlock your PC can read its saved Wi-Fi passwords, so keep that account password strong.
Upgrade a weak key while you are there
If the revealed password is short or obvious, change it in your router settings (usually 192.168.0.1) and switch security to WPA2 or WPA3. A long, random key keeps neighbours and passers-by off your network — generate one with our password generator and aim for 16 characters or more.
Frequently asked questions
Can I see a Wi-Fi password I am not connected to on Windows?
Yes. Use Command Prompt with “netsh wlan show profile name=NAME key=clear” and read the Key Content line. It works for any network whose profile is still saved on the PC, even when you are offline.
Why is Show characters greyed out?
You need an administrator account to reveal the key. Sign in as an admin, or have one enter their credentials, then the Show characters box becomes available.
Where is the Wi-Fi password on Windows 11?
Go to Settings → Network & internet → Wi-Fi → your network’s Properties, then click “View Wi-Fi security key” to show the password without opening the Control Panel.