If you’ve forgotten your WiFi password but have a Windows 11 computer that’s already connected to the network, you can find your password using Command Prompt. It’s a simple process that involves running a few commands in the Command Prompt interface. By the end, you’ll retrieve the WiFi password for any network you’ve connected to in the past. Just follow the steps below.
How to See WiFi Password on Windows 11 CMD
Using Command Prompt, you can uncover the WiFi password for a network your computer has connected to previously. Follow these steps to reveal your password:
Step 1: Open Command Prompt
First, press the Windows key and type “cmd” in the search bar.
Once you see the Command Prompt app, right-click it and choose “Run as Administrator.” This is crucial because some commands need admin access to work properly.
Step 2: Access Network Profiles
In the Command Prompt window, type netsh wlan show profiles and hit Enter.
This command will list all the WiFi networks your computer has connected to. Take note of the exact name of the network you want to find the password for.
Step 3: Find the WiFi Password
Now, type netsh wlan show profile name="YOUR_NETWORK_NAME" key=clear, replacing “YOUR_NETWORK_NAME” with the name of your WiFi network, and press Enter.
This command reveals detailed info about the network, including the password. Look for the “Key Content” line under “Security settings”—that’s your password.
Step 4: Record the Password
Take note of the password displayed next to “Key Content.”
Make sure you write it down accurately, as any typos could lead to connection issues when you try to use it.
Step 5: Close Command Prompt
Simply type exit and press Enter to close the Command Prompt window.
Now that you’ve noted your password, you can close the Command Prompt. You’re done!
After completing these steps, you’ll have successfully retrieved your WiFi password. Now you can share it with family or friends or store it somewhere safe for future use.
Tips for Using Windows 11 CMD
- Ensure you run the Command Prompt as an administrator to avoid permission issues.
- Double-check the WiFi network name before using it in Step 3 to prevent errors.
- Keep your WiFi password secure by not sharing it with just anyone.
- Regularly update your passwords for better security.
- If you encounter errors, re-enter the commands carefully to rule out typos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I see the WiFi password if I’m not connected to the network?
No, you need to have connected to the network at least once before to retrieve the password.
What if “Key Content” doesn’t show a password?
If “Key Content” is empty, it means the network is an open one and doesn’t require a password.
Can I use this method for any WiFi network?
You can only retrieve passwords for networks your computer has previously connected to.
Is it safe to use Command Prompt for this task?
Yes, as long as you follow the steps correctly, it’s safe to use Command Prompt to retrieve your WiFi password.
What if I get a “Permission Denied” error?
Make sure you run Command Prompt as an administrator to avoid this error.
Summary
- Open Command Prompt.
- Access Network Profiles.
- Find the WiFi Password.
- Record the Password.
- Close Command Prompt.
Conclusion
Gaining access to your WiFi password using the Command Prompt on Windows 11 isn’t just a neat trick—it’s a valuable skill. When you misplace your password or need to share your WiFi with a guest, these steps will have you covered. Remember to handle this newfound knowledge responsibly; the last thing you want is to compromise your own network’s security.
Think of the Command Prompt as a secret key you’ve just discovered, unlocking the door to a treasure chest of tech solutions. As you explore more ways to use it, you might find other useful commands that simplify your tech life.
If you’re interested in further reading, consider exploring other Command Prompt tips and tricks, or learn more about Windows 11’s features. Technology is full of surprises, and the more you know, the more confident you’ll be in navigating your digital world.
So go ahead, try it out, and impress your friends with your tech-savvy skills!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.