Your network security key is more precious than you realize. As you’re probably intimately familiar with your Wi-Fi “password” (ID), it is really the “gatekeeper” to your internet connection, letting only devices that you authorize access to your network. Whether you are attempting to set up a new device or simply want to troubleshoot the connection, knowing your network security key is important.
This guide will teach you what a network security key is, why it is important, and how you can locate it on different devices. By the time you get to the end of the post, you’ll be able to find your key with confidence (and recognize its significance).
What is a Network Security Key for?
Before we go into how you can locate your network security key, we need to explain what it really is. A network security key is a fancy way of saying a Wi-Fi password. It’s massively important in the protection of your connection to the internet.
There are several kinds of network security keys, including:
-
WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy): An old and insecure encryption method.
-
WPA/WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access): WPA2 is prevalent on most new routers and is said to offer good security.
Most Wi-Fi routers used in homes today use WPA2 keys because they offer a higher level of encryption. These keys protect not just your data but the gadgets connected to your network.
Why is the Network Security Key Necessary?
Your network security key provides a kind of network password, designed to prevent your internet connection from being used by unauthorized people. Otherwise, anyone in the area could:
-
Access your Wi-Fi for free.
-
No more using the internets for things that are illegal.
-
Intercept and cause your malicious sensitive data deals.
With this key, you can make your network private and feel secure as you browse the Internet.
How to Get Network Security Key on All Devices
Do you want to know what your network security key is? Whether you’re using a smartphone, laptop, or router, the following methods are used to find the network security key. Here are step-by-step instructions for various devices and platforms.
How to Find Your Network Security Key on a Router
Can’t log into your wireless network because you can’t remember the network password? One of these easy methods to find your network security key will solve your problem: The easiest place to find your network security key is in your router.
-
Check the Router Label:
Many routers include a sticker that contains the default WiFi network name and security key. It is generally called “Network Key,” “Wi-Fi Password,” or “WPA Key.” -
Log in to the Router Settings:
-
Open a web browser, and type in your router’s IP address (usually something like 192.168.0.1 or 192.168.1.1).
-
Log in by using your router admin username and password.
-
Click the wireless settings section to see or alter your network security key.
-
Very important: You may have modified the default key or your ISP may have provided you with another key. The key label on your router may not provide the accurate key.
Locating the Network Security Key on Windows
If you’re already connected to the network on a Windows PC, you can easily find the security key by following a few quick steps:
-
Open the Network Settings:
Click the Wi-Fi symbol in your taskbar and choose “Network & Internet settings.” -
Go to Wi-Fi Properties:
Underneath your connected Wi-Fi network, click Manage known networks, or “Network and Sharing Center.”
Choose your Wi-Fi network, then select Wireless Properties. -
View the Security Key:
Navigate to the Security tab.
Mark the checkbox labeled Show characters to display your network security key.
How to Find the Network Security Key on macOS
If you’re a Mac user, you can find your Wi-Fi security key like this:
-
Go to your Applications folder and select Utilities
-
Double-click on Keychain Access
-
In the Keychain search bar, enter the name of your Wi-Fi network.
-
Click Get Info or double-click the name, select your network.
-
Tick Show password after you input your Mac administrator password.
The password you see on this screen is the password used to connect to your wireless network.
How to Find the Network Security Key on an Android Device
On Android, your security key is lost in the mix: There’s no security key page or search bar. But if you have rooted access:
-
Click on Settings and then choose Network and Internet or something similar.
-
Tap Wi-Fi, followed by the connected network.
-
Record the QR code or network information. In certain Android devices, you can access the security key directly.
For non-rooted Android, you can use the QR code sharing option to add a new device without having to pick up the key yourself.
How to Get Your Network Security Key on iPhone
If you are using an iPhone, here is how to find your security key using your router or sharing the network from another Apple device:
-
Go to Settings and tap Wi-Fi.
-
Press Share Password if you’re trying to share with another iOS device that uses the same Apple ID.
-
If not, go into router settings like above.
What if I Have Forgotten or Changed My Network Security Key?
Don’t worry if you can’t find or remember your password. You have a couple of options:
-
Reset the Router:
There’s typically a reset button on the back or underside of your router. Hold it pressed until the router reboots. A reset will restore the router to factory defaults, including the default network key. -
Get in touch with your Internet Service Provider (ISP):
If your ISP supplied the router, the company may have records of your original network key, or they might assist you in resetting it.
Ways to Protect Your Network Security Key
After you have recovered your network security key, the last thing you should do is store it somewhere safe. Here are some practical tips:
-
Switch from factory-set passwords to something unique and strong.
-
Include upper case, lower case, numbers, and symbols.
-
Save it safely with password managers such as LastPass or Dashlane.
-
Do not spread it if possible.
-
Keep your key updated to increase the security of your network.
Wrapping Up
Your network security key is an important part of your internet connection. You need to know where to find it and how to handle it in order to maintain a secure and functional network.
Using the process in this How-To Geek guide, you can find your network security key on any device. Be sure to secure it and update it from time to time to ensure that your network does not become vulnerable to unauthorized entry.
Do you have questions about how to secure your network? Post them in the comments or contact one of our specialists for a more specific response!
You can read this post: How to Secure Your Computer Like a Pro
