What is my WEP KEY or WPA Encryption?

This is something that happens to almost everybody. Don't feel bad. You've encrypted your wireless network but can't remember what it is. There's 3 solutions here. If you have an Apple OS 10.5 computer you are in luck! Read Solution 1. If you're using Windows its a different ball game. Go down to Sulution 2 or 3.

Solution 1: (MAC)
Click your Apple menu (top left). Choose 'System Preferences'. Open the 'Network' icon. Highlight the 'Airport' option on the left. Now click the 'Advanced' button at the bottom. Up comes a list of wireless networks in range and their encryption types. Double-click the network you need the key for. Place a check by 'Show Password' and there it is. Now write it down! Remember you can not change the password here, it has to be done through your router setup.


Solution 2: (Windows)
I bet you wish you had a Mac write now, sorry. There's no way of seeing the password on screen, unless you're a hacker with packet catchers & decoders. But then you wouldn't be reading this. What you must do is log into your wireless modem or router. You must find the routers IP Address first (very easy, don't worry). You must be connected to your network first. So if you can't get online wirelessly you must hardwire to your router first. Follow the steps in the article below on checking your IP address, using the IPCONFIG command. When this info comes up look for the 'Default Gateway'. That is your routers IP address. Usually 192.168.1.1 or something similar. Now type that IP in the address bar of your internet browser, just like you would with a website address. Now you're logged in your router. There may be another password before you can log into it. Usually 'admin' or 'password' or '1234' or even just leave blank, unless you've changed that default too and don't remember. If so move down to Solution 3. once you are logged in the router look for the Wireless menu or Security menu. Choose your encryption type & enter the password key you want. Write it down!


Solution 3:
All hope is not yet lost but you're kinda stuck. Here's what to do. Look on the back of your wireless modem/router for a reset button. It's small but it's there. You may need a paper clip to push it in. Hold it in for 15 seconds, the lights will usually flicker once reset. Now unplug it for 15 seconds & turn back on. All the factory settings have now been restored. This means the encryption key is gone (unsecured) and the password is gone or its back to the default password, which you may need to look up on the manufacturer's site. I'll try to provide some links at the end of the article. Now follow Solution 2 to set up the wireless router the way you like.
Remember, write it all down! Place your passwords on a cheat sheet underneath the router if possible. Don't worry hackers can't crack paper & pen.

Belkin Wireless Access
Contact Belkin Support

Linksys Wireless Access
Contact Linksys Support

D-Link Wireless Access
Contact D-Link

TrendNET Wireless Access
Contact TrendNet Support

Theres more sites but thats up to you. Support sites can be very helpful.

Please comment if you found this helpful and I'll post more articles like this. I need your feedback. Thanks