How to View Saved WiFi Without QR Code or Root (Android)

Imagine you’re trying to connect a new device to your Wi-Fi network, but you’ve forgotten the password, and your Android phone doesn’t make it easy to find. Worse, you don’t want to root your device or deal with QR codes.

This guide is here to save you. I’ve spent hours researching and testing methods to uncover Wi-Fi passwords on Android devices—without compromising security or requiring advanced skills. Whether you’re on Android 10+, an older version, or looking for advanced workarounds, this article covers every possible method.

The Truth About Viewing Saved Wi-Fi Passwords on Android (No Root, No QR Code? Think Again!)

Let’s get real. If you’re searching for a way to view saved Wi-Fi passwords on your Android device without rooting and without scanning a QR code, let me tell you straight up:

An animated GIF showing a person holding an Android phone and demonstrating how to reveal a saved Wi-Fi password, with a keyboard in the background. Text overlays read ‘View Wi-Fi Passwords! Like This’ and ‘Fixing Pro!
ONLY WORKS FOR SAMSUNG!

👉 There is no official way to do this.

Why?

Android is designed with security in mind. Unlike older versions, modern Android restricts access to saved Wi-Fi passwords to prevent unauthorized use and protect your data.

screenshot of wifi sharing qr code
  • Android 10+ allows you to share Wi-Fi but only via QR code (which still displays the password in plain text below it).
  • Android 9 and below? You’re out of luck unless you have root access to dig into system files.
  • No app on the Play Store can magically reveal your saved Wi-Fi passwords unless your device is rooted.
my personal experience gif

So, What Can You Do?

✔️ If your device is on Android 10 or later, use the Share Wi-Fi option. It generates a QR code AND shows the password below it (so no second device is needed).

✔️ If you own the router, log into the admin panel and find the password under Wireless Settings.

✔️ If you’re on Android 9 or below, your only options are rooting or checking the router settings.

before you do overlay text gif

Beware of Fake Solutions!

❌ Any website or app claiming to show saved Wi-Fi passwords without root or QR codes is misleading you.
❌ Third-party apps on the Play Store that promise this feature don’t work—they either require root or simply redirect you to the QR code method.

gif of its a secret

Final Word

If you’re looking for a 100% working method, use the Share feature if you’re on Android 10+ or access the router settings. Anything else? It’s just not possible without breaking security protocols.


Methods to View Saved Wi-Fi Passwords Without QR Code or Root

1. The Built-In “Share Wi-Fi” Feature (Android 10 and Above)

Starting with Android 10, Google made it easier to view saved Wi-Fi passwords. Here’s how to do it:

wifi connected menu with password not showing

Steps:

  1. Open Settings: Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > Wi-Fi (or Connections).
  2. Select Your Network: Tap on the connected Wi-Fi network or the gear icon next to it.
  3. Tap “Share”: Look for a “Share” button or QR code icon.
  4. Authenticate: Use your fingerprint, PIN, or pattern to proceed.
  5. View the Password: The password will appear below the QR code in plain text.

Why This Method Works Without Scanning the QR Code:

Even though a QR code is generated, you don’t need to scan it. The password is visible directly, making this a simple, secure method.


2. Checking Router Admin Panel (If You Own the Wi-Fi)

If you have access to the router, you can retrieve the password directly from the admin panel.

Steps:

wps pin connection image clicked from android
  1. Log Into the Router: Open a browser, type the router’s IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.1), and log in using the default credentials (usually printed on the router).
  2. Access Wireless Settings: Navigate to Wireless or Wi-Fi Settings.
  3. Find the Password: Look for a Pre-Shared Key or Wi-Fi Passphrase field. It might be hidden, so you may need to click “Show Password.”

📌 Tip: If you’ve changed the router’s default credentials and forgotten them, you may need to reset the router.


3. WPS Protocol for Quick Access

WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup) allows you to connect without typing the password. However, this method is increasingly rare due to security vulnerabilities.

wps push button router

Steps:

  1. Locate the WPS Button: Find the WPS button on your router (usually on the back).
  2. Enable WPS on Your Phone: Go to Wi-Fi Settings > Advanced Options > WPS Push Button.
  3. Press the WPS Button on the Router: Hold it until the LED blinks. Your phone will connect automatically.
wps options from wifi settings

📌 Note: Avoid using WPS on public networks—it’s not secure.


4. Google Lens: Decode QR Codes Without a Second Device

If your phone only displays a QR code (and not the password), you can use Google Lens to decode it.

screenshot of wifi sharing qr code

Steps:

  1. Generate the QR Code: Use the “Share Wi-Fi” feature to generate a QR code.
  2. Take a Screenshot: Capture the QR code.
  3. Open Google Lens: Use your phone’s built-in QR scanner (found in Google Photos or Camera).
  4. Decode the QR Code: Google Lens will display the Wi-Fi password in text form.

5. Using Bluetooth Tethering for Sharing

For Samsung and some other Android devices, you can share Wi-Fi over Bluetooth without revealing the password.

wifi connected menu with password showing

Steps:

  1. Enable Bluetooth Tethering: On the connected device, go to Settings > Connections > Mobile Hotspot and Tethering > Bluetooth Tethering.
  2. Pair Devices: Pair the two devices via Bluetooth.
  3. Connect to the Internet: The second device can now access Wi-Fi through Bluetooth without needing the password.

📌 Limitations: Speeds are capped, usually at 2 Mbps.


6. Rooting for Full Access (Advanced Users)

For older Android versions, rooting is the only way to access saved Wi-Fi passwords directly.

Steps:

  1. Root Your Device: Use tools like Magisk or SuperSU (proceed with caution).
  2. Install a Root File Explorer: Download Root Explorer or similar apps.
  3. Navigate to Wi-Fi Configurations: Go to /data/misc/wifi/ and open the wpa_supplicant.conf file using a text editor.
  4. View Passwords: The file will display saved networks and passwords in plain text.

📌 Warning: Rooting voids your warranty and exposes your device to security risks.


7. ADB Command Workaround (Older Devices)

ADB (Android Debug Bridge) can extract Wi-Fi configuration files on older devices.

Steps:

  1. Enable USB Debugging: Turn on Developer Options and enable USB Debugging.
  2. Connect to a Computer: Use a USB cable to connect your phone to a computer with ADB installed.
  3. Run the Command: Enter adb backup -f backup.ab -noapk com.android.settings.
  4. Extract the Backup: Use tools like Android Backup Extractor to access Wi-Fi configuration files.

📌 Note: This method is limited to Android 8 and below due to tightened security on newer versions.


Comparison of Methods

MethodRequires Root?Works Without QR Code?Ease of UseBest For
Share Wi-Fi (Android 10+)EasyMost modern devices
Router Admin Panel AccessModerateWi-Fi owners
WPS ProtocolEasyQuick, temporary connections
Google Lens QR DecodingSemiEasyAvoiding second devices
Bluetooth TetheringModerateSharing without passwords
Root AccessAdvancedOlder devices, tech-savvy users
ADB Command WorkaroundAdvancedOlder Android versions

FAQs

Q: Can I view passwords on Android 9 or below without rooting?

Unfortunately, no. Android 9 lacks the built-in sharing feature, and rooting is the only reliable way.

Q: Are Wi-Fi recovery apps safe?

Most apps require root and may expose your data to security risks. Avoid them unless you understand the implications.

Q: Why don’t enterprise networks show passwords?

Enterprise networks use encrypted credentials (e.g., WPA2-Enterprise) that aren’t stored in the same format as home networks.


Final Thoughts

If you’re on Android 10 or newer, the “Share Wi-Fi” feature is the easiest and most secure way to view saved passwords. For older devices, methods like accessing the router or decoding QR codes with Google Lens can help.

🚨 Pro Tip: Always prioritize security. Avoid third-party apps that claim to retrieve passwords without root—they’re often unreliable and risky.

Which method worked best for you? Let me know in the comments below. And if you have any questions, feel free to ask!

Kunal
Kunalhttps://fixing-pro.com/author/kunal-kashyap/
Kunal Kashyap, the tech guru behind FixItKunal.com, Learn and Solve with Backdroid (Youtube Channel), simplifies complex tech issues with clear and user-friendly guides. With expertise in Android, iOS, and more, his tutorials empower users to tackle tech problems confidently. Kunal's engaging style makes technology accessible to both beginners and experts. Beyond tech, he explores psychology and keeps up with tech and business trends awarded by the Government and Namita Thapar.

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