Getting access to a saved Wifi password can be quite tedious, especially when you are an Android user. However, there are instances when the need arises, and the only alternative would be to retrieve the password. The reasons for this can vary, either to fix a connectivity problem or reconnecting a device that had previously been connected using the Wifi network. This blog post will guide you through several methods on how to get saved Wifi password from Android.
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What’s Needed
To retrieve saved Wifi passwords from an Android device, you will need to have a rooted Android device or some third-party apps available. Rooting an Android device is crucial as the process unlocks and provides access to the device’s root directory and settings.
What Requires Your Focus?
While several methods can be effectively used to retrieve Wifi passwords on an Android device, their applicability may vary depending on the situation. Therefore, it is important to consider the following;
1. The Android device should be rooted as this is a crucial step in the retrieval of Wifi passwords. If the device is not rooted, some data might be inaccessible.
2. The method to use should be chosen based on its effectiveness and safety. Some methods could compromise the data stored on your Android device or cause damage if not correctly executed.
Different Methods to Get Saved Wifi Password from Android
Method 1: Using the Wifi Key Recovery App
The Wifi Key Recovery App is a reliable tool that provides easy access to saved Wifi passwords on Android devices. It works by scanning and retrieving any previously saved Wifi passwords on the device. Here are the steps you can follow to use this method;
1. Install the Wifi Key Recovery App from Google Play Store.
2. Launch the App once the installation process is complete.
3. The App will scan and display all saved Wifi passwords on the device.
4. Tap on the preferred Wifi network to reveal the password.
Pros:
– Easy to use and navigate
– Scans and retrieves all previously saved Wifi passwords on the Android device in one process.
Cons:
– May not work on some Android devices
Method 2: Using ES File Explorer
Another effective way to retrieve Wifi passwords on an Android device is through ES File Explorer. This method works by providing access to the Android data files, including the file containing the password. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use this method;
1. Install and launch ES File explorer on your Android device.
2. Go to the Root directory on the Android device and navigate to the data/misc/wifi folder.
3. Open the folder and locate the file named wpa_supplicant.conf.This file contains all saved Wifi passwords.
4. Open the file using ES File Explorer’s built-in text/HTML viewer.
5. Locate the network whose password you need and view it.
Pros:
– Provides access to all saved Wifi passwords on your Android device.
– Does not require additional software installations.
Cons:
– Can be quite technical and complicated
– The process is sometimes limited to some Android devices.
Method 3: Using a Terminal Emulator
For more technical users, using a Terminal Emulator can be an effective way of retrieving saved Wifi passwords. This process involves accessing the Android device’s terminal and inputting specific commands. Here are the steps to follow;
1. Install a Terminal Emulator App on your Android device.
2. Launch the App and input the code “su” to obtain Super User access.
3. Input the command, “cd /data/misc/wifi.” This will direct you to the file containing the Wifi password.
4. Use the command “ls” to view the file named wpa_supplicant.conf.
5. Once you locate the file, use the command “cat wpa_supplicant.conf” to open the file and view the saved Wifi password.
Pros:
– No need for any additional software installations
– Provides root access to the device
Cons:
– The process may require technical expertise
– Limited compatibility with some Android devices.
Method 4: Using the Router Settings
If you have access to the Wifi router that your phone has saved the password for, you can retrieve the password by logging in to the router settings. Follow these steps;
1. Launch the web browser on your device
2. Input the router’s IP address, which you can find in the router’s manual or by contacting your service provider.
3. Log in to the router by using the default ID and password or the assigned ones.
4. Once in the settings, navigate through the menus to locate the Wireless or Wifi settings.
5. In the section, you should find a list of devices connected to the router, including your Android device.
6. Look for the Wifi password under the device’s status or details section.
Pros:
– No technical expertise required.
– Allows you to check the router’s security.
Cons:
– The process may require physical access to the router.
– The method might be tricky if you don’t have the router details.
Method 5: Using Wifi Password Recovery
This App is another reliable way of accessing saved Wifi passwords on an Android device. The process works by scanning and displaying all saved passwords on the device. Here are the steps to follow;
1. Install and launch the Wifi Password Recovery App.
2. Allow it to access your device’s storage.
3. The App will scan and display all previously saved passwords on the Android device.
4. Select the preferred Wifi network and view the password.
Pros:
– No root access required.
– The App is simple to use.
Cons:
– The app might not work on some Android devices.
– Cannot show Wifi configurations of Android 9 and newer versions.
Why Can’t I Get Saved Wifi Password from Android?
As much as the above methods are effective in retrieving saved Wifi passwords, there are instances when retrieving the password may be impossible. Here are some reasons and how to fix them;
1. Root Access: Without root access, retrieving saved Wifi passwords using some of the methods above may be impossible. To fix this, you will need to consider rooting your Android device, which provides access to the Android device’s low-level settings.
2. Security Protocols: Saving Wifi passwords can be impossible due to the type of security protocol used by the Wifi. WPA3 and WPA2 Enterprise protocols are some of the latest security protocols that limit access to saved passwords. In this case, you will need to talk to the network administrator to provide you with the password or a separate guest network.
3. Limitations on Android Versions: Some of the methods discussed have limited compatibility with different Android device versions. To avoid this, ensure that you choose a method that is compatible with your Android device.
Implications and Recommendations
Here are some of the implications and recommendations to consider when retrieving Wifi passwords on Android devices.
1. The methods discussed above require caution as the processes could lead to data loss or damage if not correctly executed.
2. If the process seems complicated or you are uncertain of the process, consult an expert for guidance.
3. Ensure to choose a method that is compatible with your Android device to avoid limitations and receive accurate information.
5 FAQs about Retrieving Wifi Passwords from Android
Q1: Can I retrieve saved Wifi passwords without rooting my Android device?
A: Yes, you can use the Wifi Password Recovery app to access saved passwords without rooting your Android device.
Q2: How can I tell if my Android device is rooted?
A: You can tell if your Android device is rooted by installing and launching a root checker app.
Q3: Is it legal to root an Android device?
A: Rooting an Android device is legal, although it may void the device’s warranty.
Q4: Can I access saved Wifi passwords on other Android devices using the same method?
A: Yes, you can access saved Wifi passwords on other Android devices using the same methods discussed.
Q5: Will I lose data on my Android device when rooting to access saved Wifi passwords?
A: There is the possibility of losing data when rooting an Android device. Therefore, it is essential to make a backup of your Android device’s data before rooting.
Final Words
Retrieving Wifi passwords from Android devices can be challenging, especially when the process is limited by security protocols or data accessibility. However, using the methods discussed above, one can efficiently retrieve saved Wifi passwords and restore or reconnect the device to the preferred network. It is important to follow the processes carefully, ensuring compatibility with the Android device, and using caution to avoid data loss or damage.