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Back Up Saved Wi-Fi Profiles (netsh wlan export)

Export every remembered Wi-Fi network and its password to XML files.

WindowswlannetshWi-FiMedium risk
Run netsh wlan export profile key=clear folder=C:wifi-backup in an admin Command Prompt.

01Command

Command
$ netsh wlan export profile key=clear folder=C:wifi-backup

02What it does

Windows remembers each Wi-Fi network as a profile; netsh wlan export writes them as XML files that can be re-imported with netsh wlan add profile. This is the fastest way to carry your network logins to a fresh install or another laptop without retyping passwords. Add key=clear or the exported files omit the password.

03Risk

RiskMedium risk
RequirementsRun Command Prompt as administrator. key=clear writes the password in plain text into the XML files.
!Warning: With key=clear the XML files contain your Wi-Fi passwords in plain text — store the folder securely and delete it after importing.

04Undo

Undo
$ netsh wlan add profile filename="C:wifi-backupWi-Fi-Home.xml" user=all

05Sources

  • netsh - Windows CMD
    SS64 · technical · 2026-09-17
    Evidence: Documents the netsh wlan context including profile export to XML and re-adding profiles with netsh wlan add profile.

Last verified: 2026-09-18 · Category: Network

06Related solutions

List saved Wi-Fi profiles with netsh wlan
WindowsnetworkWi-Fisecurity

Enumerate every wireless network Windows remembers, inspect a profile's settings, and export profiles for backup or transfer to another PC.

Medium risk ✓ 2026-09-17