Forgetting the WiFi password for a network your iPhone or iPad is already connected to is a common frustration. Whether you want to share access with a guest or reconnect another device, retrieving that saved password isn't as straightforward as you might hope. This guide provides clear, effective methods to help you recover your WiFi credentials.
Why Can’t I See My WiFi Password Directly on iPhone?
iOS is designed with a strong focus on security. To protect your sensitive information, Apple does not allow users to view plain-text WiFi passwords directly on an iPhone or iPad. The operating system automatically manages and stores these credentials securely in the iCloud Keychain, handling authentication in the background without exposing the password itself.
You can only directly view the password if your device is jailbroken or by using one of the workarounds outlined below, which typically involve accessing the information from another linked device or the network's source.
Reliable Methods to Find Your WiFi Password
Here are the primary methods to retrieve a forgotten WiFi password from your iOS device.
1. Find the Password via Your Router's Web Interface
This is one of the most reliable methods, as it goes directly to the source of your network settings. You will need to access your router's administrative panel using a web browser.
Find your router's IP address:
- On your iPhone, go to Settings > Wi-Fi.
- Tap the "i" icon next to the connected network you need the password for.
- Scroll down and note the Router address (e.g., 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
Access the router's login page:
- Open Safari on your iPhone and type the router's IP address into the address bar.
- Press Go.
Log in to the router:
- You will be prompted for a username and password. These are often found on a sticker on the router itself (common defaults are "admin/admin" or "admin/password").
- If the default credentials don't work, you may need to contact your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or the person who set up the router.
Locate the wireless security settings:
- Once logged in, navigate to the Wireless or WiFi Settings section. The exact name varies by router manufacturer.
- Here, you will find your Network Password (sometimes called the Security Key, Pre-Shared Key, or Passphrase). It may be hidden by default; look for an option to "Show" or "Reveal" it.
Note: This method will only work if you have the login credentials for your router's admin panel.
2. Use iCloud Keychain Sync (Requires a Mac)
If you use a Mac and have iCloud Keychain enabled, your WiFi passwords sync securely across all your Apple devices. You can then view them on your Mac.
Enable iCloud Keychain on your iPhone:
- Go to Settings > [your name] > iCloud.
- Tap Passwords and Keychain (or just Keychain).
- Ensure the toggle for iCloud Keychain is on.
Sync and find the password on your Mac:
- On your Mac, press Cmd + Space to open Spotlight Search.
- Type Keychain Access and open the application.
- In the search bar in the top-right corner, type the name of the WiFi network.
- Double-click on the network entry in the list.
- Check the box that says Show password.
- You will be prompted to enter your Mac's administrator username and password to reveal the WiFi password.
This method provides a seamless way to access your saved network credentials across your trusted Apple ecosystem.
Understanding Personal Hotspot and Password Sharing
How to Find Your iPhone's Personal Hotspot Password
Your Personal Hotspot has its own separate password that you can share with others to allow them to use your cellular data.
- Go to Settings > Personal Hotspot.
- The field labeled Wi-Fi Password is your hotspot's password. You can tap it to change it to something more memorable.
How to Share a WiFi Password with Another iPhone User
Apple has a convenient feature that allows you to share a WiFi password securely between iOS devices without ever seeing it.
Prerequisites:
- Both devices must be running iOS 11 or later.
- The Apple ID of the person you're sharing with must be in your Contacts.
- Both devices must have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on.
- Keep the devices close to each other.
Steps to Share:
- On your guest's device, select the WiFi network you are connected to.
- A prompt will appear on your iPhone's screen: "Share Your Wi-Fi Password."
- Tap Share Password.
- The password will be sent securely to the other device, and their device will connect automatically.
- Tap Done on your iPhone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a jailbreak app to see WiFi passwords?
While apps like WiFi Passwords and NetworkList exist on Cydia for jailbroken devices, jailbreaking voids your warranty, exposes your device to security risks, and is not recommended for the average user. The methods above are safer and more reliable for most people.
What should I do if I can't share a WiFi password?
First, ensure all prerequisites are met: iOS 11+, Bluetooth/Wi-Fi on, and the friend's contact info is saved. If it still fails, try restarting both devices. For persistent software glitches, a tool like iTunes recovery mode or a professional explore more troubleshooting strategies might be needed, though a simple restart often resolves the issue.
Why is my saved WiFi password not working on a new device?
It's possible the network's password was changed on the router after your iPhone initially connected. Your iPhone will continue to use the old, saved password until you update it. You will need to find the new password using the router method and then update the network settings on your iPhone ("Forget This Network" and then reconnect with the new password).
Is it safe to share my WiFi password using Apple's method?
Yes, it is very secure. The password is shared over an encrypted connection between devices and is never sent over the internet or displayed in plain text. The recipient's device does not store the password in a way that is easily visible to them either.
What if I changed my router's admin password and forgot it?
If you cannot log into your router, you will likely need to perform a factory reset. Most routers have a small, recessed reset button. Press and hold this button for about 10-15 seconds with a paperclip. This will reset the router to its factory defaults, including the WiFi name and password, which will revert to what is printed on the sticker. You will then need to reconfigure your network from scratch.
Final Thoughts
While iOS keeps your passwords hidden for security reasons, you are not without options. Accessing your router's settings or using iCloud Keychain on a Mac are the most effective and safe ways to retrieve a forgotten WiFi password. For daily use, leverage Apple's convenient password-sharing feature to grant access to guests without ever revealing the password itself. Keeping your network secure while maintaining access is a balance easily achieved with these methods.