Passwords can be difficult to keep track of, and the resulting struggle to log in to our various accounts can hinder our ability to carry out daily activities. Setting new passwords isn’t even a surefire way to regain access – as many as 57% of Americans say that they will forget a new password as soon as they’ve reset it.
If you’re one of the many internet users struggling to keep track of your login details and aren’t sure how to find your Wi-Fi password, here’s a cheat sheet for how to access your password on various devices.
Where is My Wi-Fi Password Stored?
When you receive a new Wi-Fi router, the password is usually written somewhere on the back of the box, and on a card that can be kept at your desk or with your laptop or computer. This password is usually a combination of upper and lower case letters and numbers. If you are logged into the Wi-Fi but unable to find the password on either the router hub or the accompanying card, here is how you can access the code.
Retrieving Passwords on Windows
Here’s how to find the password for the Wi-Fi you’re currently connected to on your Windows device.
- Select Start and enter Settings.
- Select Network and Internet.
- Under this section, select Wi-Fi on the sidebar.
- You should then be able to see an option for the Network and Sharing Centre – from there you can choose the Wi-Fi you are currently connected to.
- Select Wireless Properties, and in the window that opens select Security.
- Check the box titled Show Characters to make your password visible.
Retrieving Passwords on iOS
Here’s how to find the password for the W-Fi you’re currently connected to on your iOS device (iPhone or iPad).
- Go into Settings and select Wi-Fi
- Select the Wi-Fi you’re using
- Select Info
- Select the password field and use your passcode or FaceID to reveal the password
If you or your device has forgotten your Wi-Fi password and there is someone in your contacts nearby connected to the Wi-Fi, they can share it to your device without you having to type the password at all:
- Make sure the device that is connected to the Wi-Fi and sharing the password is unlocked.
- Select the correct Wi-Fi network on the device trying to connect.
- A pop-up should appear on the already-connected device, prompting you to Share Password.
Retrieving Passwords on Mac Devices
If the above doesn’t help, there is a way to copy and paste the Wi-Fi password from your Mac device to allow it to be shared elsewhere.
- Go into System Settings via the Apple menu.
- Select Network, and then Wi-Fi.
- Find the name of the network you’re currently using.
- Select the More option, and then select Copy Password.
This password can now be pasted into a message or note to share with your other devices or guests.
Retrieving Passwords on Android
Android devices make finding and sharing passwords even easier by providing a QR code.
- Go into your Settings.
- Select Wi-Fi, and then the connected network.
- You will then be shown a shareable QR code and the Wi-Fi password.
Tips and Troubleshooting
It’s advisable to change the preset password as soon as you receive a new Wi-Fi router, and this password should then be updated once a year moving forward. This is to keep your network secure and to prevent people from stealing your Wi-Fi.
It’s not considered safe to store passwords on your phone or computer in a document or note-keeping application, as this information is easy for hackers to find and steal, especially if it hasn’t been encrypted. Writing passwords down on paper or in notebooks is considered far safer, but still poses a problem if your notes are ever misplaced.
Your passwords should be complex and contain a mix of different numbers, letters and special characters. Try not to use obvious or well-known details about your life as the base for your passwords.
Manage Your Passwords With iolo
If remembering passwords is proving difficult for you and you don’t want to compromise the security of your devices, consider using a password manager. Most operating systems nowadays come with their own built-in password managers, but if you’re looking for one password manager to cover all of your devices you should consider ByePass.
ByePass takes the difficulty and risk out of remembering passwords and sensitive information by using data encryption to store it securely. Not only does ByePass remember and fill your passwords for you, it can generate unique passwords for you to use and let you know if any of your passwords have been leaked by scanning the Dark Web.
Stop worrying about your passwords – try ByePass today.
