Forgetting the password of the Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to can be a frustrating experience, especially if you need to connect another device or share the password with someone else. If you own a Mac, however, the process of checking the connected Wi-Fi password is relatively simple. In this article, we’ll explore several methods to help you find the connected Wi-Fi password on your Mac.
Video Tutorial:
What’s Needed
Before we dive into the methods, you will need a few things to follow along with the steps:
– A Mac computer
– The admin password for the Mac
– The Wi-Fi network name that you are currently connected to
– Text editor software such as TextEdit or Sublime Text
What Should I Pay Attention to?
– Make sure that you have the admin password for your Mac, as some of the methods may require it.
– If you have recently changed the Wi-Fi password, the previous password will not work to connect to the network.
– You will need to be connected to the Wi-Fi network that you want to check the password for.
Method 1: Using Keychain Access
1. Open the Keychain Access app, which can be found in the Utilities folder within the Applications folder.
2. In the search bar, type in the name of the Wi-Fi network that you are currently connected to.
3. Double-click on the Wi-Fi network name that appears in the search results.
4. Click on the checkbox next to “Show password,” and enter the admin password for your Mac when prompted.
5. The Wi-Fi password will be displayed in the text field next to “Show password.”
Pros
– Easy and fast method to find the Wi-Fi password.
– No need for any additional applications or tools.
Cons
– Requires the admin password for your Mac.
– The Wi-Fi password is displayed in plain text, which could be a security risk if someone gains access to your computer.
Method 2: Using Terminal
1. Open the Terminal app, which can be found in the Utilities folder within the Applications folder.
2. Type in the following command and press Enter: security find-generic-password -ga "Wi-Fi network name"
3. Replace “Wi-Fi network name” with the name of the network that you want to check the password for.
4. Enter the admin password for your Mac when prompted.
5. The Wi-Fi password will be displayed in the Terminal window.
Pros
– No need for any additional applications or tools.
– The Wi-Fi password is not displayed in plain text.
Cons
– Requires knowledge of how to use Terminal.
– Typing in the wrong command could cause errors.
Method 3: Using Router Configuration Page
1. Open a web browser and type in the IP address for your router in the address bar.
2. Enter the router login credentials when prompted. If you are unsure what they are, refer to the manual for your specific router model.
3. Once logged in, navigate to the wireless settings page.
4. The current Wi-Fi password will be displayed on the page.
Pros
– Can be used to check any connected Wi-Fi network password, not just the one you are currently connected to.
– No need for special tools or knowledge.
Cons
– Requires access to the router login credentials.
– Not all router models have the password displayed on the wireless settings page.
Why Can’t I Check My Wi-Fi Password?
1. Incorrect Wi-Fi network: Make sure that you are connected to the correct Wi-Fi network that you want to check the password for.
2. Lack of admin privileges: Some of the methods require the admin password for your Mac, so make sure that you have the necessary privileges.
3. Changed Wi-Fi password: If you recently changed the Wi-Fi password, the previous password will not work to connect to the network.
Suggestions
1. Write down the Wi-Fi password and keep it somewhere safe, so you don’t have to go through the process of checking it again.
2. Use a password manager to store and manage all of your passwords securely.
FAQs
Q: Can I check the Wi-Fi password for networks that I am not currently connected to?
A: Yes, you can use Method 3 to check the password for any Wi-Fi network that you have the router login credentials for.
Q: I’m not very tech-savvy. Which method should I use?
A: Method 1 is the easiest and most straightforward method to use, but it does require the admin password for your Mac. If you are uncomfortable using the command line, Method 3 may be the best option for you.
Q: Is it safe to display the Wi-Fi password in plain text?
A: While displaying the password in plain text can be a security risk if someone gains access to your computer, it is necessary to view the password to connect other devices to the network. It is recommended to keep the password written down in a secure location.
Q: Can I change the Wi-Fi password using these methods?
A: No, these methods are only for checking the current Wi-Fi password. To change the Wi-Fi password, you will need to access the router settings page and make the change there.