Ever been in that situation where a friend asks for your WiFi password, but you just can’t seem to remember it? Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Forgetting your WiFi password is more common than you think. Luckily, if you’re using Windows 11, there’s a simple and effective way to recover your saved WiFi password using just the Command Prompt (CMD).
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to do it—step by step. You don’t need to be a tech guru; anyone can follow this process easily. By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to retrieve your WiFi password without resetting your router or calling your internet provider.
Why Retrieve Your WiFi Password Using CMD?
Before diving into the steps, let’s answer a simple question: Why use CMD in the first place?
It’s Fast and Easy
No need to dig into complicated settings or reset anything. A few commands, and you’re done!
No Extra Software Required
You don’t need to download any third-party apps or tools. Windows 11 already has what you need.
Works Even Without Internet
This method doesn’t require you to be connected to the internet—just to have the saved WiFi profile on your PC.
Requirements Before You Begin
Before jumping into the tutorial, make sure you meet these simple requirements:
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Your Windows 11 PC should have previously connected to the WiFi network.
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You need administrative access to your computer.
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The Command Prompt should be accessible.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Administrator
First things first—let’s launch Command Prompt with administrative privileges.
How to Open CMD in Windows 11
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Press Windows Key + S and type cmd in the search bar.
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Right-click on Command Prompt from the results.
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Select Run as administrator.
You’ll see a black window open—that’s where the magic happens!
Step 2: View All Saved WiFi Networks
Now that your CMD is open, let’s list all the WiFi networks your computer has ever connected to.
Type the Following Command:
Hit Enter, and you’ll see a list of all saved WiFi profiles. Each profile represents a network you’ve connected to in the past.
Step 3: Select the WiFi Network
From the list that appears, pick the network whose password you want to see.
For example, if the network name is Home_WiFi, remember that name. We’ll use it in the next command.
Step 4: Reveal the WiFi Password
Here comes the exciting part—revealing the password.
Type the Following Command:
Replace YourWiFiName with the actual name of your network (e.g., Home_WiFi).
Where to Find the Password?
After hitting Enter, scroll through the output until you find Key Content. The value next to it is your WiFi password!
Step 5: Test the Password
Got the password? Great! Now, share it with your friend or reconnect your other devices.
If it doesn’t work, double-check for typos—WiFi passwords are case-sensitive.
Alternative Ways to Find WiFi Password on Windows 11
CMD is a powerful tool, but it’s not the only way. Here are a few alternatives:
Using Control Panel
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Open Control Panel → Network and Internet → Network and Sharing Center.
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Click your WiFi network name.
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Select Wireless Properties → Security tab.
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Check Show Characters to reveal the password.
Using Windows Settings
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Go to Settings → Network & Internet → WiFi.
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Click on Manage known networks.
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Select your network and check its properties.
Is It Safe to Use CMD for WiFi Passwords?
You might be wondering, “Isn’t it risky to reveal your password this way?” Well, here’s the truth:
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It’s safe as long as only authorized users have access to your PC.
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Always avoid sharing passwords over unsecured channels (e.g., social media).
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Consider changing your WiFi password periodically for better security.
What If You Can’t Find the WiFi Profile?
Sometimes, the network name you’re looking for may not appear in the list. Why?
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The network might not have been connected on your PC before.
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The profile may have been deleted.
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You may be using a different user account than the one that connected before.
Benefits of Using CMD Over Other Methods
Let’s be honest—why should you stick to CMD when there are other ways?
1. Speed
No clicking through endless menus.
2. Reliability
CMD fetches the stored password directly from the system.
3. Offline Access
Even if you’re offline, you can still retrieve the password.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
CMD Shows No Profiles
Try running CMD as administrator again. If the problem persists, your system may not have any saved networks.
Password Doesn’t Show
Ensure you typed the WiFi name exactly as listed (case-sensitive).
Access Denied Error
Check if your user account has admin rights.
How to Protect Your WiFi Password in the Future
Now that you’ve retrieved your password, let’s keep it safe.
Use a Password Manager
Store your WiFi credentials securely.
Write It Down in a Safe Place
Sometimes, old-school methods work best!
Change It Regularly
Enhances your network security.
Final Thoughts
Retrieving your WiFi password using CMD in Windows 11 is surprisingly easy. With just a few commands, you can get access to your saved networks and share them with others—no hassle, no extra tools required. This method is quick, reliable, and works even if you’re offline.
So next time someone asks for your WiFi password, you won’t have to fumble around—you’ll know exactly what to do.
FAQs
1. Can I find a WiFi password if I’ve never connected to the network before?
No, this method only works for networks your computer has already connected to.
2. Is it legal to retrieve WiFi passwords using CMD?
Yes, as long as you’re retrieving your own saved networks or have permission.
3. Can I use this method on Windows 10?
Absolutely! The steps are nearly identical for Windows 10.
4. What if I can’t access Command Prompt as administrator?
Ask the administrator of your PC for access or use an account with admin rights.
5. Do I need an internet connection to see the password?
No, you just need the saved profile on your device.