How to view your Wi-Fi password from your mobile phone without installing apps
Losing your home Wi-Fi password can be a pain, especially when you need to connect a new device or share the network with guests. Most of the time, the solution is to look for the password written on it. But what if you can't find it?
On most Android phones, there's a simple way to recover your password without having to install any apps . This secure and efficient method takes advantage of a QR code connection feature already built into the system. The trick is as simple as scanning a QR code .
This code, which is automatically generated in your phone's Wi-Fi settings when you're connected to a network, contains all the information needed to join, including the network name (SSID) and password. Scanning it with another device's camera avoids the tedious process of entering a long and complicated password.
The key to Wi-Fi without apps.
- Access your Wi-Fi settings: Go to your phone's "Settings" and select "Wi-Fi." Make sure you're connected to the network you want to get the password for.
- Generate the QR code: Tap the name of the network you're connected to. In most cases, a "Share" option or an icon with a QR code will appear. When you tap it, the system will generate the code on the screen. For security reasons, you may be asked to verify your identity with a fingerprint or PIN.
- Take a screenshot: Once the QR code is on the screen, take a screenshot. This will allow you to save it to your phone's gallery for analysis.
- Use Google Lens to scan the code: Open the Google Lens app. If you don't have it on your home screen, you can find it within the Google Camera app or by searching for it in the app store. Select the screenshot you took of the QR code.
- Get the password: Google Lens will automatically analyze the code and show you the network information, including the name (SSID) and, most importantly, the password. You can easily copy or share it from there. This method is useful both for recovering your own key and for sharing it with someone without them having to write it down.
It is crucial to protect passwords and be cautious when sharing them.
While this method is very practical, it's essential to consider security. This process isn't a tool for hacking into other people's networks, as it only works if you're already connected to the network. However, in a world where digital security is increasingly important, it's crucial to protect passwords and be cautious when sharing them.
A NortonLifeLock study indicates that most users underestimate the risks of sharing information from their networks, which can expose other connected devices to potential vulnerabilities.
Routers to access the internet. Photo: Shutterstock
- Change Name (SSID): It is good practice to change the default name of your Wi-Fi network to make it harder to identify.
- Router Updates: Always keep your router's firmware up to date to protect yourself from potential vulnerabilities.
- Create a guest network: Many routers offer the option to create a separate guest network, keeping your main network private and secure.
- Hide your network: Consider hiding your Wi-Fi network name so it's not visible to other devices, although this isn't a foolproof measure.
Clarin
