General Question

deni's avatar

Is there a way to find out a wireless internet network password from a computer that is already connected to it?

Asked by deni (23141points) March 1st, 2010

i hope im phrasing this right. my macbook arrived today and i need the password (the 26 digit number/letter code) for our home wireless network. but the paper it was on has been misplaced by either me or my roommate. i’m currently connected to the network on this computer but i can’t find the password anywhere on my computer. is it possible or should i just wait til she gets home and reset the password from the main computer?

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6 Answers

dpworkin's avatar

It’s stored somewhere in the routine that connects you automatically. I don’t know how it works on a Mac, but in Win7 it’s in the Network Connection properties, although it may be masked out.

deni's avatar

the computer i’m currently using is a PC….i have windows xp. i’ll check network connections…thank you much

dpworkin's avatar

Maybe you can look at the router. Go to 192.168.1.1 in a browser and enter the default username and password for your router (often that would be “admin” and “password”, but you can Google for your brand’s default.)

CMaz's avatar

I want to say no. But, there is always a way. Re-set it, since you have access to the router.

jaytkay's avatar

Routers provided by the phone/cable company often have the wireless key on a sticker on the router.

Otherwise…

1)
Download the setup manual from the mfgs web site
2)
Restore the router to factory settings.
Usually there is a tiny button you have to push with a ball-point pen or paper clip. Hold it down for 10 seconds.
2)
Create a new 26-character wireless key and all the other settings.

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