In today’s digital age, WiFi connectivity has become an essential part of our daily lives. We rely on it to stay connected with family and friends, check our emails, and access a vast amount of information on the internet. But have you ever wondered how to know the password of connected WiFi on your Android device? Perhaps you’ve forgotten the password or want to share it with someone else. Whatever the reason, this article will guide you through the process of retrieving the WiFi password on your Android device.
Understanding WiFi Password Security
Before we dive into the methods of retrieving the WiFi password, it’s essential to understand the basics of WiFi password security. WiFi passwords, also known as WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) passwords, are designed to provide a secure connection between your device and the WiFi network. These passwords are encrypted, making it difficult for unauthorized users to access the network.
WiFi passwords are typically stored in the Android device’s system settings, and they can be accessed through the device’s settings app. However, the password is not displayed in plain text; instead, it’s hidden behind a asterisk (*) symbol, ensuring that the password remains secure.
Method 1: Using the Android Settings App
The simplest way to know the password of connected WiFi on your Android device is through the Android settings app. Here’s a step-by-step guide to retrieve the WiFi password:
For Android 10 and above:
- Go to the Settings app on your Android device.
- Tap on Connections or Network & Internet.
- Select Wi-Fi.
- Tap on the Saved networks option.
- Find the network you want to retrieve the password for and tap on it.
- Tap on the Share icon.
- Tap on QR code or Copy password to share the password.
For Android 9 and below:
- Go to the Settings app on your Android device.
- Tap on Wi-Fi.
- Select the network you want to retrieve the password for.
- Tap on the Modify network option.
- Tap on the Show password checkbox.
- Enter your device’s PIN or password to authenticate.
- The WiFi password will be displayed in plain text.
Method 2: Using a Third-Party App
If the above method doesn’t work for you, or you’re using an older Android version, you can use a third-party app to retrieve the WiFi password. One of the most popular apps for this purpose is WiFi Password Viewer.
Here’s how to use the app:
Step 1: Download and Install the App
- Go to the Google Play Store on your Android device.
- Search for WiFi Password Viewer.
- Select the app from the search results and tap Install.
- Wait for the app to download and install.
Step 2: Launch the App and Grant Permissions
- Launch the WiFi Password Viewer app on your Android device.
- Tap Grant to allow the app to access your device’s WiFi settings.
- Tap OK to confirm.
Step 3: Retrieve the WiFi Password
- The app will display a list of all the saved WiFi networks on your device.
- Find the network you want to retrieve the password for and tap on it.
- The app will display the WiFi password in plain text.
Method 3: Using ADB Commands
For advanced users, you can use ADB (Android Debug Bridge) commands to retrieve the WiFi password. This method requires you to have ADB installed on your computer and a USB cable to connect your device to the computer.
Here’s how to use ADB commands:
Step 1: Enable USB Debugging
- Go to the Settings app on your Android device.
- Tap on Developer options.
- Scroll down and toggle the switch next to USB debugging to enable it.
Step 2: Connect Your Device to Your Computer
- Connect your Android device to your computer using a USB cable.
- Open a command prompt or terminal window on your computer.
Step 3: Retrieve the WiFi Password
- Type the following command and press Enter:
adb shell - Type the following command and press Enter:
wpa_supplicant - The command will display a list of all the saved WiFi networks on your device.
- Find the network you want to retrieve the password for and note down the ssid and psk values.
- The psk value is the WiFi password.
Safety Precautions
While retrieving the WiFi password, it’s essential to take certain safety precautions to ensure that your device and data remain secure.
Avoid Using Untrusted Apps
When using third-party apps to retrieve the WiFi password, make sure to download them from trusted sources like the Google Play Store. Avoid using apps from unknown sources, as they may contain malware or viruses that can compromise your device’s security.
Use Strong Passwords
It’s crucial to use strong and unique passwords for all your WiFi networks. Avoid using the same password for multiple networks, and make sure to change them regularly.
Be Cautious When Sharing Passwords
When sharing the WiFi password with others, make sure to only share it with trusted individuals. Avoid sharing the password on public platforms or with unknown persons.
In conclusion, retrieving the WiFi password on your Android device is a relatively simple process. By using the Android settings app, a third-party app, or ADB commands, you can easily retrieve the password. However, it’s essential to take safety precautions to ensure that your device and data remain secure. Remember to use strong passwords, avoid using untrusted apps, and be cautious when sharing passwords with others.
How do I check if my Android device is connected to a WiFi network?
To check if your Android device is connected to a WiFi network, go to your device’s Settings app and select “Connections” or “Wireless & networks.” From there, tap on “Wi-Fi” and look for the name of the network you’re connected to. If you’re connected, you should see a checkmark or a “Connected” status next to the network name. You can also look at the top of your screen, where you should see the WiFi signal strength indicator.
Alternatively, you can also swipe down from the top of your screen to open the Quick Settings panel and check if WiFi is enabled. If it is, you should see the name of the network you’re connected to. If you’re still unsure, try disconnecting from the network and then reconnecting to see if you can access the internet.
What is the difference between a WEP, WPA, and WPA2 password?
WEP, WPA, and WPA2 are different types of encryption protocols used to secure WiFi networks. WEP is an older protocol that is now considered insecure and should be avoided. WPA is a more secure protocol that is still widely used, but it has some vulnerabilities. WPA2 is the most secure protocol and is recommended for most users.
When trying to crack the password of a connected WiFi network, it’s essential to know what type of encryption protocol is used. Some password-cracking tools may only work with certain types of encryption, so it’s crucial to identify the encryption protocol used by the network you’re trying to access.
Is it legal to crack the password of a WiFi network?
In most cases, it is illegal to crack the password of a WiFi network without the owner’s permission. WiFi networks are considered private property, and accessing them without permission can be considered trespassing or theft. Additionally, many countries have laws that prohibit unauthorized access to computer systems or networks.
However, there are some exceptions. For example, if you’re trying to crack the password of your own WiFi network because you forgot it, that’s usually okay. Similarly, if you have permission from the network owner to test their network security, that’s also legal. But it’s always important to ensure you have permission before attempting to access a WiFi network.
What are some common WiFi password-cracking tools?
There are many WiFi password-cracking tools available, both online and offline. Some popular tools include Aircrack-ng, Wireshark, and Cain & Abel. These tools can help you crack WEP, WPA, and WPA2 passwords using various methods, such as dictionary attacks, brute-force attacks, and cryptanalysis.
When using WiFi password-cracking tools, it’s essential to use them responsibly and legally. Always ensure you have permission to access the network, and never use these tools to access networks without permission. Additionally, be cautious when downloading and using these tools, as some may contain malware or viruses.
How do I protect my WiFi network from being cracked?
To protect your WiFi network from being cracked, use a strong and unique password that is difficult to guess. Avoid using common words, names, or dates, and try to use a password that is at least 12 characters long. You should also enable WPA2 encryption, which is the most secure protocol available.
Additionally, consider enabling additional security features, such as MAC address filtering, which can help prevent unauthorized devices from connecting to your network. You should also regularly update your router’s firmware and change your password periodically to ensure maximum security.
What are the risks of using public WiFi networks?
Public WiFi networks, such as those found in cafes or airports, can be risky to use because they often lack proper security. When using public WiFi networks, your device and data may be vulnerable to hacking, eavesdropping, and malware attacks. Hackers can easily intercept your data, including passwords and sensitive information, when you’re connected to a public WiFi network.
To minimize the risks, avoid using public WiFi networks to access sensitive information, such as online banking or email accounts. You should also consider using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) to encrypt your data and protect it from interception. When using public WiFi networks, be cautious of suspicious activity, and avoid clicking on unknown links or downloading attachments.
How do I find the IP address of a connected WiFi network on Android?
To find the IP address of a connected WiFi network on Android, go to your device’s Settings app and select “Connections” or “Wireless & networks.” From there, tap on “Wi-Fi” and select the network you’re connected to. Then, tap on the “Modify network” or “Advanced” option and look for the “IP address” field.
Alternatively, you can also use a third-party app, such as WiFi Analyzer, to find the IP address of the connected network. These apps can provide you with detailed information about the network, including its IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway.