At some point, almost everyone needs to find a network security key: maybe you bought a new laptop, invited a guest over, reconnected a smart TV, or reset a phone that forgot your Wi-Fi. The term sounds technical, but in most cases it simply means your Wi-Fi password. The good news is that if one of your devices is already connected to the network, Windows, macOS, Android, and iPhone all offer ways to view or share it.
TLDR: Your network security key is usually your Wi-Fi password. On Windows and macOS, you can often reveal it through system settings or saved password tools. On Android and iPhone, you can usually view or share the password from Wi-Fi settings, though the exact steps depend on your software version. If all else fails, check your router label, router admin page, or internet provider app.
What Is a Network Security Key?
A network security key is the password or passphrase used to protect a wireless network. It helps prevent strangers from connecting to your Wi-Fi and keeps your internet connection, devices, and data safer. Depending on the device or router, you may see it called:
- Wi-Fi password
- Wireless key
- WPA key or WPA2 key
- Security key
- Passphrase
If your router still has its original settings, the key may be printed on a sticker on the router itself. However, many people change it over time, which is why knowing how to find it on a connected device can be so useful.
How to Find Your Network Security Key on Windows
Windows makes it fairly easy to view the password for a Wi-Fi network you are currently connected to. The wording may vary slightly between Windows 10 and Windows 11, but the process is similar.
Method 1: Use Windows Settings
- Click the Start button and open Settings.
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Select Advanced network settings.
- Open More network adapter options.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter and choose Status.
- Click Wireless Properties.
- Go to the Security tab.
- Check the box labeled Show characters.
The text in the Network security key field is your Wi-Fi password. You may need administrator permission to reveal it.
Method 2: Use Command Prompt
If you want to find a saved Wi-Fi password for a network you connected to before, Command Prompt can help.
- Open the Start menu.
- Type cmd, then open Command Prompt.
- Type:
netsh wlan show profiles - Find the name of your Wi-Fi network.
- Type:
netsh wlan show profile name="NetworkName" key=clear
Replace NetworkName with the exact Wi-Fi name. Look under Security settings for Key Content. That is the saved network security key.
How to Find Your Network Security Key on macOS
On a Mac, saved Wi-Fi passwords are stored in Keychain Access, Apple’s built-in password manager. If your Mac has connected to the network before, there is a good chance the password is saved there.
- Open Finder.
- Go to Applications, then Utilities.
- Open Keychain Access.
- In the search bar, type the name of your Wi-Fi network.
- Double-click the matching network entry.
- Check Show password.
- Enter your Mac username and password when prompted.
Once authenticated, your Wi-Fi password appears in the password field. This method is especially handy if you use iCloud Keychain, because passwords may sync across your Apple devices.
On newer macOS versions, you may also be able to view saved Wi-Fi passwords from System Settings. Go to Wi-Fi, open known networks, and look for a password viewing or copying option. Apple changes menu layouts over time, so if you do not see it there, Keychain Access remains the most reliable route.
How to Find Your Network Security Key on Android
Modern Android phones often make password sharing surprisingly simple. In many cases, you can display a QR code for the Wi-Fi network, and the password may appear underneath it. Exact steps vary by phone brand, but the general process is similar.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Network & Internet or Connections.
- Select Wi-Fi.
- Tap the network you are connected to.
- Choose Share, QR code, or a similar option.
- Confirm with your fingerprint, face unlock, PIN, or password.
After verification, Android may show a QR code that another device can scan. On many phones, the network security key is also displayed as text below the QR code. If it is not shown, you can still use the QR code to connect another phone or tablet without typing the password.
Samsung Galaxy devices may use slightly different wording. Try Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi, then tap the gear icon beside your network. From there, look for QR code or Share.
How to Find or Share Your Network Security Key on iPhone
Apple has improved Wi-Fi password access on iPhone, especially in recent iOS versions. If your iPhone is connected to the network, you may be able to view the password directly.
- Open Settings.
- Tap Wi-Fi.
- Tap the information icon next to your connected network.
- Tap Password.
- Authenticate with Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode.
Your network security key should then appear, and you can copy it if needed. This is one of the easiest methods if your iPhone is running a recent version of iOS.
If you do not need to see the password but want to let someone else connect, iPhone also supports Wi-Fi password sharing. Both devices should have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth turned on, and the person you are sharing with should be in your contacts. When they select your Wi-Fi network, a prompt may appear on your iPhone asking if you want to share the password.
Other Places to Check
If none of your devices reveal the password, do not panic. There are several other places your network security key may be hiding:
- Router sticker: Many routers have the default Wi-Fi name and password printed on the back or bottom.
- Router admin page: Log in through a browser using the router’s IP address, often something like 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.
- Internet provider app: Many providers let you view or change your Wi-Fi password in their mobile app.
- Setup paperwork: The original installation card or email may include the default network key.
If you access your router settings, you can usually find the password under sections such as Wireless, Wi-Fi, Security, or WPA/WPA2. Be careful not to change settings unless you understand what they do.
Security Tips After You Find It
Once you have your network security key, treat it like any other password. Avoid sending it in plain text messages to large groups, and do not post it where visitors, neighbors, or coworkers can easily see it. If your password is weak, consider changing it to something longer and more unique.
A strong Wi-Fi password should be at least 12 characters and include a mix of words, numbers, or symbols. You do not need something impossible to remember, but avoid obvious choices like your address, phone number, pet name, or “password123.” Also, make sure your router uses WPA2 or WPA3 security if available.
Final Thoughts
Finding your network security key is usually easier than it sounds. Windows can reveal it through adapter settings or Command Prompt, macOS stores it in Keychain Access, Android often shows it through a shareable QR code, and iPhone can display it directly in Wi-Fi settings on newer iOS versions. Once you find it, save it somewhere secure, and take the opportunity to make sure your home network is protected with a strong, modern password.