It's a common situation for owners of Xiaomi, Redmi and POCO smartphones to connect a new gadget to a wireless network and forget the password, and they often wonder if they can view the stored access data directly in the device settings. Fortunately, modern versions of the MIUI and HyperOS shell provide this capability without having to obtain superuser rights or install complex utilities.
Previously, extracting security keys required tampering with system files, which was only available to power users. Today, the process is much simplified and intuitive even for beginners. Data security remains a priority, so the system requires verification of the identity of the owner through biometrics or pin code before displaying sensitive information.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the standard methods for restoring access to the network, as well as alternative options for devices with older versions of the software. QR-code for guests or copy the text string of the password to enter on other devices, this will save time and eliminate the need to reset the router settings.
MIUI's regular capabilities for viewing passwords
Starting with certain firmware versions, Xiaomi engineers have implemented a feature to display stored networks, made possible by improved Android security protocols that allow apps and system services to request access to user-confirmed credentials. If you have a relatively new smartphone released in the last couple of years, chances are that this option is already available.
You don't have to search for hidden menus or enter special codes in engineering mode to access information. All the necessary tools are in the standard wireless connection management interface. The system automatically encrypts stored keys, but when you request a display, it makes quick verification, which ensures that the unauthorized person who took the unlocked phone will not be able to see your data without your knowledge.
It is worth noting that the functionality may vary slightly depending on the version of MIUI or regional firmware. In some cases, the interface can be adapted to local requirements, but the logic of actions remains the same for all devices of the brand.
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Before you look at passwords, make sure that your smartphone is connected to the Internet at least through a mobile network so that the system can correctly synchronize the time and status of security services.
Step-by-step: viewing through QR-code
The fastest and most reliable way to find out a forgotten password is to use the generation function. QR-This method works on the vast majority of modern Xiaomi smartphones and does not require the installation of additional software. The algorithm of actions is simple and takes only a few seconds, if you know where to look for the desired button.
First, go to the wireless module settings menu, and it shows you a list of all the networks that your device has previously connected to and saved login data, and find the network name you want (SSID) in the list, and click on the gear icon or arrow on the right of your name to open the advanced connection settings.
☑️ Algorithm of action
In the connection window that opens, you'll see a large square code, and underneath or next to it, there's usually a text string that says "password" or "password." If the text is hidden with asterisks, there might be a "show" button or an eye icon nearby, and clicking on it would require you to type in a pattern lock, a fingerprint, or a face scan.
If there is no text display, you can simply take a screenshot of the screen from the QR-Then open this screenshot through the Camera app or any scanner. QR-The scanner recognizes the encoded string and shows it in readable form, highlighting the password separately, and it's a universal method that works even if the text field is hidden by the interface.
⚠️ Note: Do not send screenshots from QR-And you can use the codes on your home network to strangers, and anyone who counts that code can instantly connect to your Internet without entering a password.
Use of cloud synchronization Mi Cloud
Xiaomi’s ecosystem has the ability to synchronize key device settings through a Mi Account account. If your device has WiFi data sync enabled, the passwords could be saved in the cloud, which is especially useful in a situation where the phone has been reset to factory settings, but you want to restore network access on a new device or after flashing.
To check this option, you need to go to the Mi Account settings on any device that logs in under your login. In the Cloud or Sync section, you need to find the wireless networking location. If the switch is active, your data is stored on the company's servers and can be restored.
However, it is worth considering that direct viewing of passwords through the web interface of the Mi Cloud is often not available for security reasons. The cloud serves more as a mechanism for transferring settings when changing your phone, rather than a storage for viewing passwords you use. However, when you initially set up a new smartphone, Xiaomi system will offer to restore saved networks, and the connection will happen automatically.
Alternative methods for older versions of MIUI
If your smartphone is running on an older version of the shell, where password browsing is not available in the standard interface, you will have to resort to workarounds, one of which is using third-party WiFi management apps, although their functionality on newer versions of Android is severely limited by Google's security policies.
Some users try root-right applications, superuser rights allow you to read system files where network configurations are stored. However, this method carries risks: you can lose the warranty, disrupt the system or face instability of the device. In addition, modern Xiaomi phones are difficult to root without unlocking the bootloader, which also entails data cleaning.
A safer option for older models is to use the Share feature through standard system tools, if available. Sometimes when you try to share network settings via Bluetooth or NFC, the system generates a connection bar that may contain a password in plain form. You can also try to create an access point based on the current WiFi network, if this option is supported by firmware.
As a last resort, if none of the software methods work, you have physical access to the router, and most routers have a factory password sticker on the back of their back, if you haven't changed it, and if the password has been changed, you can find it by connecting to the router via a computer cable and logging into the administrator's web interface.
Compatibility table of methods and versions of Android
The effectiveness of a method depends on the version of the operating system and the shell installed. Below is a table that will help you navigate the available capabilities for different generations of Xiaomi devices.
| Android Version / MIUI | Viewing the password in the settings | Generation QR-code | Root is required. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Android 10 / MIUI 11 | Partially. | Yes. | No. |
| Android 11 / MIUI 12-12.5 | Yes. | Yes. | No. |
| Android 12 / MIUI 13 | Yes. | Yes. | No. |
| Android 13-14 / HyperOS | Yes. | Yes. | No. |
| Android 9 and below | No. | No. | Yeah (mostly) |
As you can see from the table, Android 11 and newer devices are in the best position to have access to all the regular tools without having to go into the wilds of system settings. Older models are more complicated, and often the only way out is to reset your router or search for a password on another device already connected.
Why don’t older Androids have passwords?
Restoring access through the router’s web interface
If the smartphone can't show the password, and you have a computer or other gadget on hand that's already connected to the network, you can go to the settings of the router itself. This method is universal and does not depend on the model of the Xiaomi phone. You will need a browser and the default gateway address, which is often listed on the sticker under the device.
In the address bar of the browser enter IP-router's address, usually 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1. Once you enter, the system will ask for the username and password of the administrator. If you haven't changed them, try standard combinations like admin/admin. Once in the control panel, find the Wireless or Wireless section».
In the Wireless Security section, you'll see the PSK Password or Password field, which is often hidden by dots, but you'll find a checkbox called Show Password or Display Characters, and if you tick the box, you'll see the desired combination of characters, and that's the most reliable way to ensure that you get an actual password, even if it's been changed recently.
⚠️ Warning: Be careful when entering your router settings. Changing other settings, such as encryption type or channel, can cause you to lose communication with all devices in your home.
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The router’s web interface is the only way to guarantee a password if none of the connected devices can display it, and the physical sticker on the case has worn off.