There are times when you need to retrieve a saved WiFi password on your Android device—perhaps to share with a friend or connect another device. While root access was once essential to view stored WiFi passwords on Android, recent Android updates have introduced a simpler way to find saved passwords without rooting your device. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to find WiFi passwords on Android without root.
1. Using the Built-in WiFi QR Code Sharing Feature
On Android 10 and above, Google added a built-in WiFi QR code sharing feature. This method is quick and easy, but you’ll need access to the WiFi network you want the password for. Here’s how:
– Step 1: Open Settings and go to Network & Internet (or Connections on some devices).
– Step 2: Select WiFi to view the list of WiFi networks.
– Step 3: Tap on the WiFi network you’re currently connected to. Look for an option labeled Share (usually next to the network name or in the advanced settings).
– Step 4: You may be prompted to enter your device’s PIN, pattern, or fingerprint for security.
– Step 5: Once verified, a QR code will appear, representing your network information. Beneath the QR code, you’ll see the WiFi password displayed in plain text.
This feature is particularly handy because it shows the password directly, allowing you to note it down or share it easily.
2. Using Google Lens to Scan the QR Code
If you have an older Android device with a friend or a family member’s Android device that has the network saved, you can use Google Lens to scan the WiFi QR code and retrieve the password. Here’s how:
– Step 1: Have the other person display the WiFi QR code on their device by following the steps above.
– Step 2: Open the Google Lens app (or your camera app if it has built-in Lens functionality).
– Step 3: Point the camera at the QR code and tap on it. Google Lens will read the QR code and display the network name and password.
3. Using Third-Party File Managers (For Android 9 and Below)
If you’re using an older version of Android, you may not have the QR code feature, but you can still retrieve WiFi information if you have a compatible file manager app like File Explorer by Cx File Explorer or Solid Explorer.
– Step 1: Download a file manager app from the Google Play Store if you don’t have one installed.
– Step 2: Open the file manager and navigate to /data/misc/wifi (if this path is available on your device). Look for a file named wpa_supplicant.conf.
– Step 3: Open this file with a text editor within the app. It contains the list of WiFi networks and their respective passwords.
Note: This method may not work on all devices, as some manufacturers restrict access to WiFi configurations.
Finding WiFi passwords on Android has become easier with new OS updates, particularly for Android 10 and above. The built-in QR code sharing method offers a secure and convenient way to view WiFi passwords without rooting your device. For older Android versions, using Google Lens or file manager apps can still provide some solutions.