How to Find Wi-Fi Password Using CMD in Windows 11

Patrick_Yu · 1:33AM

Forgetting a Wi-Fi password can be frustrating, especially when you want to connect a friend or new device to a network you've used before. If you're on a Windows 11 PC that has previously connected to the Wi-Fi, you can easily retrieve the password without needing to ask for it again. Using the Command Prompt (CMD), you can view saved Wi-Fi passwords for networks you've accessed on that computer, making it a quick and discreet solution when you’re in a pinch.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to find those saved passwords directly on your PC. It’s a handy trick to know, saving you from the hassle of tracking down the password manually or disturbing others for it.

How to find Wi-Fi passwords using CMD in Windows 11

1. Open Command Prompt (CMD)

Press Win + S to open the search bar.
Type “CMD” or “Command Prompt.”
Right-click on “Command Prompt” and select “Run as administrator” to open it with elevated permissions.

2. View Available Wi-Fi Profiles

In the Command Prompt window, type the following command to see all Wi-Fi networks saved on your computer:

netsh wlan show profiles

This command will display a list of all Wi-Fi profiles that your computer has previously connected to. Look for the name (SSID) of the Wi-Fi network you want the password for.

3. Retrieve the Wi-Fi Password

Now, to see the password for a specific network, use this command, replacing “WiFiName” with the network’s name from the previous list:

netsh wlan show profile name="WiFiName" key=clear

After entering this command, you’ll see detailed information about the selected Wi-Fi profile. Look for the line labeled “Key Content” under the “Security settings” section. The text next to "Key Content" is the Wi-Fi password.

4. Close Command Prompt

Once you’ve noted down the password, you can close Command Prompt. Now, you’re ready to connect any other device to the network using the retrieved password.

Potential errors and troubleshooting tips

While the process is straightforward, some users may encounter errors. Here’s how to address a few common issues:

“Access is Denied” Error: This error often occurs if Command Prompt was not opened with administrative privileges. Ensure you’ve right-clicked on “Command Prompt” and selected “Run as administrator.” Without elevated permissions, Windows won’t allow access to saved Wi-Fi profiles.
No Profiles Found or Empty Results: If no Wi-Fi profiles appear after running the “netsh wlan show profiles” command, it may be because your PC has not saved any networks. This can happen if it’s a new device or if all profiles were cleared from the system. Try connecting to a network manually and then repeat the steps.
Incorrect Network Name (SSID): Double-check the spelling of the network name when using it in the command. If you mistype the name or include extra spaces, the command won’t find the profile. Verify that the name in the list of profiles exactly matches the one you’re using in the command.
Command Not Recognized: If “netsh” or other commands aren’t recognized, it could indicate an issue with your system’s environment variables or Command Prompt setup. Try restarting your PC or running the command in PowerShell instead, though ensure you still open it with administrative privileges.

Ensuring privacy and security when accessing Wi-Fi passwords

Accessing saved Wi-Fi passwords can be convenient, but it’s essential to handle this information responsibly to maintain your network security. Here are a few privacy tips:

Store Passwords Securely: Consider using a password manager to store Wi-Fi credentials securely. This will save you from needing to retrieve them each time, and password managers use encryption to keep your information safe.
Limit Access: Only use this method on your personal devices. Accessing Wi-Fi credentials on shared or public computers can pose privacy risks, as others may be able to see the passwords you retrieve.
Be Cautious in Public Settings: If you’re retrieving a password in a public place, make sure no one can see your screen to prevent potential security issues.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that this handy trick doesn’t compromise your network's security or privacy.

Reconnect with ease

Retrieving a saved Wi-Fi password through Command Prompt on Windows 11 is a straightforward solution for those times you need quick access to a familiar network. With just a few simple commands, you can bypass the hassle of asking for the password again or searching through saved notes. However, remember to use this method responsibly—only on your own device and in private settings—to keep network security intact. This trick is useful to have in your tech toolkit, saving you time and making device connectivity a little easier whenever you need it.