In today’s digital age, everyone relies on their smartphones to stay connected to the internet. However, to access the internet, we need to connect to Wi-Fi networks, which often require a password. While we may remember the passwords of our home or office Wi-Fi networks, we tend to forget the passwords of other networks we have connected to in the past. Fortunately, there are ways to see the password for connected Wi-Fi on Android devices. In this article, we will discuss different methods to achieve this.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed?
Before we proceed to the methods, there are a few prerequisites you need to keep in mind. Firstly, your Android device must be rooted as most of the methods require root access. Secondly, you should have a file manager app installed on your device as we will be exploring system files. Lastly, you should take a backup of your device data in case of any issues that may arise during the process.
What Requires Your Focus?
While each method offers its own benefits, the common factor among all the methods is that you need to be careful while attempting them. In some cases, the methods require access to system files, which, if modified incorrectly, can cause serious issues with your device. Therefore, before attempting any method, carefully read the steps and try to understand the process. Additionally, make sure you back up your device data and that your device is rooted.
Different Methods to See Password for Connected Wifi on Android
Method 1: Using Wi-Fi Password Recovery (Root)
Before we begin with Method 1, let me clarify that this method only works if your Android device is rooted.
1. Download and install the Wi-Fi Password Recovery app from the Google Play Store.
2. Launch the app and grant root access when prompted.
3. You will see a list of all the Wi-Fi networks your device has connected to.
4. Tap on the network whose password you want to see, and the app will display the password.
Pros:
– Simple and easy to use.
– Displays passwords for all connected Wi-Fi networks.
Cons:
– Requires root access.
– The app may not work with newer Android versions.
Method 2: Using ES File Explorer (Root)
In this method, we will use ES File Explorer to navigate to the system files that contain the Wi-Fi passwords.
1. Download and install ES File Explorer from the Google Play Store.
2. Launch the app and grant root access when prompted.
3. Tap on the three horizontal lines in the top left corner and select “Root Explorer.”
4. Navigate to the following directory: /data/misc/wifi/
5. Look for a file named “wpa_supplicant.conf” and tap on it.
6. Open the file using the built-in text editor in ES File Explorer.
7. Scroll down to the network whose password you want to see and look for the line that says “psk.” The password will be written after “psk=”.
Pros:
– Works with most Android devices.
– Doesn’t require any additional app.
Cons:
– Requires root access.
– Can be difficult for novice users.
Method 3: Via ADB (No Root)
In Method 3, we will use ADB (Android Debug Bridge) to view the Wi-Fi password. This method doesn’t require root access.
1. Install ADB on your computer. You can download it from the Android Developers website.
2. Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.
3. On your computer, open a command prompt or terminal window and type “adb shell.”
4. Next, type “su” to gain root access.
5. Type “cd /data/misc/wifi” to navigate to the Wi-Fi directory.
6. Type “cat wpa_supplicant.conf” to view the file.
7. Look for the Wi-Fi network whose password you want to see, and the password will be written on the line that says “psk=”.
Pros:
– Doesn’t require root access.
– Works with most Android devices.
Cons:
– Can be complicated for novice users.
– Uses command line interface.
Method 4: Using QR Code Reader (No Root)
This method uses a QR Code Reader app that can read the Wi-Fi password encoded in a QR code.
1. Download and install any QR Code Reader app from the Google Play Store.
2. Connect to the Wi-Fi network whose password you want to see.
3. Launch the QR Code Reader app and select “Scan QR Code.”
4. Point your camera at the QR code located next to the Wi-Fi network name.
5. The app will decode the QR code and display the Wi-Fi password.
Pros:
– Works with most Android devices.
– Quick and easy.
Cons:
– Requires the Wi-Fi network to have a QR code next to it.
– App may not always decode QR codes correctly.
Method 5: Using Wi-Fi Key Recovery (No Root)
This method uses the Wi-Fi Key Recovery app, which can retrieve the Wi-Fi password for the network you are currently connected to.
1. Download and install the Wi-Fi Key Recovery app from the Google Play Store.
2. Connect to the Wi-Fi network whose password you want to see.
3. Launch the app, and the password will be displayed at the top of the screen.
Pros:
– Doesn’t require root access.
– Easy to use.
Cons:
– Only works for the Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to.
– Doesn’t work with all Android devices.
Why Can’t I See Password for Connected Wi-Fi on Android?
There could be several reasons why you are unable to see the password for connected Wi-Fi on Android.
1. Your Android device is not rooted: Most of the methods we have discussed require root access. Without root access, you won’t be able to view the Wi-Fi password.
2. Unsupported Android version: Some methods may not work on newer Android versions.
3. File permissions: In some cases, the required files may have incorrect permissions, preventing you from accessing them.
To fix these issues, try using a different method that works with your Android device or consult online forums for solutions to specific problems.
Implications and Recommendations
1. Make sure your Android device is rooted before attempting any of the methods. Without root access, you won’t be able to view the Wi-Fi password.
2. Always take a backup of your device data before attempting any method.
3. Be careful while modifying system files as it can cause serious issues with your device.
5 FAQs about Seeing Password for Connected Wi-Fi on Android
Q1: Do all Android devices support root access?
A: No, not all Android devices support root access. You need to check if your device is supported by the rooting tool you are planning to use.
Q2: Can I view the Wi-Fi password for a network I connected to in the past?
A: Yes, you can view the Wi-Fi password for any network your device has connected to in the past, provided you have the required permissions.
Q3: Is it safe to modify system files on my Android device?
A: It can be risky to modify system files on your Android device, especially if you are not familiar with the process. However, if you follow the steps carefully and take a backup of your device data, the chances of anything going wrong are minimized.
Q4: Do I need an internet connection to view the Wi-Fi password on my Android device?
A: No, an internet connection is not required to view the Wi-Fi password on your Android device. However, you need to be connected to the specific Wi-Fi network whose password you want to view.
Q5: Are there any other apps that can help me view the Wi-Fi password on my Android device?
A: Yes, there are several other apps available on the Google Play Store that can help you view the Wi-Fi password on your Android device. However, not all of them may work with your device.
Final Words
In conclusion, there are several methods to view the password for connected Wi-Fi on Android devices. Depending on your device and requirements, you can choose the method that works best for you. However, it is vital to be careful while attempting any method and always take a backup of your device data.