In today’s digital world, we log in to dozens of accounts every day—email, social media, shopping, banking, work portals, and countless apps. Remembering all those usernames and passwords is nearly impossible, which is why Windows 11 provides built-in tools to store, manage, and autofill your credentials securely. Microsoft integrates password management features directly into Windows through tools like Credential Manager and the Windows Security keychain, along with integration with Microsoft Edge’s built-in password manager.
Managing your stored usernames and passwords in Windows 11 helps you save time, reduce login frustrations, and keep your online life secure. In this guide, we’ll explain the different methods to view, edit, remove, and secure your saved passwords on Windows 11. We’ll also discuss security practices, how Edge compares to third-party password managers, and what steps you can take to ensure your credentials remain safe.
Why Managing Passwords Matters
Managing stored usernames and passwords isn’t just about convenience. Here are some important reasons:
- Security – Outdated or reused passwords are a big risk if accounts get compromised.
- Convenience – Automatically logging in to apps and websites saves time.
- Account Recovery – Knowing where your credentials are stored helps in case you forget them.
- System Organization – Helps you clean up old credentials from accounts you no longer use.
Ways Windows 11 Stores Your Usernames and Passwords
Windows 11 stores your login credentials in different ways, depending on where they’re used:
Windows Credential Manager
- Stores local app, network, and Windows service logins.
- Useful for saved Wi-Fi passwords and network shares.
Microsoft Edge Password Manager
- Manages saved website usernames and passwords.
- Syncs across devices when logged in with your Microsoft account.
Windows Hello and PIN
- Allows secure access to your system without typing passwords repeatedly.
Third-Party Password Managers
- Programs like LastPass, Bitwarden, and 1Password can also integrate with Windows 11.
Method 1: Manage Stored Credentials Using Windows Credential Manager
The Credential Manager is a control panel utility that stores login information for Windows services, apps, and network resources.
Steps to Access Credential Manager
- Press Windows + S and type
Credential Manager. - Click on Credential Manager (Control Panel).
- You’ll see two categories:
- Web Credentials – Passwords saved in Microsoft Edge.
- Windows Credentials – Logins for Windows services, apps, or network shares.
Viewing and Editing Credentials
- Select a saved credential from the list.
- Click the drop-down arrow to expand details.
- Choose Edit to update the username or password.
- Choose Remove if the account is no longer needed.
Example Use Cases
- Accessing a Wi-Fi password stored in your system.
- Editing a network share login that changed.
- Removing credentials for apps you uninstalled.
Method 2: Managing Stored Passwords in Microsoft Edge
Microsoft Edge includes a built-in password manager that stores and auto-fills login credentials across websites.
How to View Saved Passwords in Edge
- Open Microsoft Edge.
- Click the three-dot menu (top-right).
- Go to Settings > Profiles > Passwords.
- You’ll see a list of saved site logins.
Actions You Can Take
- Search – Find a specific saved account.
- View Password – Click the eye icon (requires Windows Hello or PIN confirmation).
- Edit – Update username or password details.
- Delete – Remove credentials no longer in use.
- Export Passwords – Export a list of stored credentials (requires authentication).
Syncing Passwords Across Devices
If you use the same Microsoft account on multiple devices:
- Toggle Password Sync on in Edge settings.
- Your logins will sync between PC, laptop, and even mobile.
Method 3: Managing Wi-Fi Passwords in Windows 11
Many users forget their Wi-Fi password after saving it once. Fortunately, Windows 11 allows you to retrieve it.
Steps to View Wi-Fi Passwords
- Press Windows + I to open Settings.
- Navigate to Network & Internet > Advanced Network Settings.
- Click More network adapter options.
- Right-click your Wi-Fi adapter > Status > Wireless Properties.
- Open the Security tab and select Show characters.
Your Wi-Fi password will now be visible.
Method 4: Using Windows Security for Password Protection
Windows 11 integrates Windows Security features to ensure saved credentials remain safe.
- Windows Hello allows you to use fingerprint, face recognition, or a PIN instead of typing system passwords.
- Dynamic Lock pairs your phone with your PC to lock automatically when you step away.
- BitLocker encrypts your hard drive, preventing unauthorized access to stored credentials.
Method 5: Removing Outdated or Compromised Credentials
Keeping old credentials increases risks. Here’s how to remove them:
- From Credential Manager – Select the entry > Remove.
- From Edge – Locate saved site login > Delete.
- From Wi-Fi settings – Run this command in Command Prompt:
netsh wlan delete profile name="Wi-Fi-name"
This removes saved Wi-Fi passwords from your system.
Method 6: Using PowerShell to Manage Credentials
Advanced users can also manage credentials using PowerShell.
- To list stored credentials:
cmdkey /list - To remove a credential:
cmdkey /delete:targetname
This gives you direct control without opening Credential Manager.
Security Best Practices for Managing Stored Passwords
Even though Windows 11 manages your credentials, you should follow good practices:
- Use strong passwords (12+ characters, mixed symbols).
- Avoid reusing passwords across multiple accounts.
- Enable MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication) on sensitive accounts.
- Regularly clean old credentials from Credential Manager and Edge.
- Use a trusted third-party password manager if you handle many accounts.
Comparing Windows 11’s Built-In Password Management vs Third-Party Managers
| Feature | Windows Credential Manager | Microsoft Edge | Third-Party Password Managers |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stores Windows logins | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ |
| Stores website logins | Limited (via Edge) | ✅ | ✅ |
| Sync across devices | Microsoft account only | Microsoft account only | Cross-platform |
| Autofill capability | Limited | ✅ | ✅ |
| Security features | Windows Hello, BitLocker | Sync encryption | Advanced (vaults, MFA, breach alerts) |
If you rely mainly on Windows and Edge, the built-in tools are sufficient. But if you use multiple browsers, devices, or need advanced features, third-party managers like Bitwarden, LastPass, or 1Password are worth considering.
Troubleshooting Password Management in Windows 11
Sometimes you may face issues like missing credentials or autofill not working. Here’s what you can do:
- Autofill not working in Edge – Go to Settings > Profiles > Passwords and enable Offer to save passwords.
- Credential Manager empty – Ensure you’re logged into the correct Windows account.
- Wi-Fi password not showing – Check admin privileges; you may need elevated access.
- Edge passwords not syncing – Verify you’re signed into the same Microsoft account on all devices.
Final Thoughts
Windows 11 makes it much easier to manage usernames and passwords, whether through Credential Manager, Microsoft Edge, or network settings. These tools ensure you don’t have to memorize every login, while keeping your credentials secure with Windows Hello and encryption.
For everyday users, Edge’s password manager combined with Windows Hello provides a convenient and safe solution. However, power users or those handling multiple accounts may prefer using third-party managers for cross-platform syncing and extra features.
By regularly reviewing, editing, and removing outdated credentials, you not only improve your system’s security but also streamline your daily workflow. Password management is a small habit that makes a big difference in both productivity and safety.
FAQs
1. Where are my saved passwords stored in Windows 11?
They are stored in Credential Manager (for Windows logins and apps) and Microsoft Edge (for websites).
2. Can I export saved passwords from Windows 11?
Yes, Edge allows you to export saved site credentials after authentication.
3. Is Credential Manager safe?
Yes, it encrypts stored credentials and integrates with Windows Hello for additional security.
4. Do I need a third-party password manager?
It depends—Windows 11 works well for basic users, but third-party managers are better for multi-device, cross-browser needs.
