Solution if Windows Credential Manager does not display your password

Last update: 19/09/2025

Error “You need administrator permissions” even though I am an administrator

Are you trying to view your password in the Windows Credential Manager and it doesn't appear? It's not an error: For security, Windows hides saved passwordsIn this article, we explain why this happens and what the possible solution is if the Windows Credential Manager doesn't display your password. We've provided this clear guide to regain access without wasting time or getting frustrated.

¿Qué es el Administrador de credenciales de Windows?

Windows Credential Manager doesn't show your password

The Credential Manager is a tool built into Windows that allows you to save and manage usernames and passwordsWhat for? For various services such as shared networks, remote desktop, Microsoft applications, and some websites. The main purpose of this tool is to facilitate automatic access to these resources without having to enter credentials repeatedly.

In the Windows Credential Manager you will find three types of credentials:

  • Windows Credentials: for networks, servers, remote desktop, etc.
  • Credenciales genéricas: for applications such as OneDrive, Outlook or third-party software.
  • Credenciales web: for websites, more specifically, for browsers like Internet Explorer or classic Edge.

Why doesn't Windows Credential Manager show your password?

If the Windows Credential Manager doesn't display your password, don't worry, it's completely normal. Por razones de seguridad, Windows does not reveal saved passwords for anyone to see. The passwords that you will be able to see are those corresponding to the Web CredentialsTo do this, follow these steps:

  1. Enter the Control PanelUser accountsCredential Manager or type “Credential Manager” in the Windows search bar.
  2. Choose “Credenciales web"
  3. Open one of your saved passwords by tapping the arrow on the right.
  4. Ahora, en el apartado Contraseña, click on Mostrar.
  5. Enter your PIN if Windows asks for it (you'll need it to see your password).
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Por otro lado, están las Windows CredentialsWithin this section, we find several types of credentials: Windows Credentials, Certificate-based Credentials, and Generic Credentials.

Generic credentials can contain app passwords, but In most cases they are not visible. And Windows credentials (such as network or remote desktop credentials) They don't show the password eitherSo what's the solution if the Windows Credential Manager doesn't display your password?

Solution if Windows Credential Manager does not display your password

Windows Credential Manager

We've already seen that if the Windows Credential Manager doesn't display your password, it doesn't mean anything bad has happened; this information is protected for security reasons. Now, what can you do if you need to? modify or delete one of the saved passwords in this section? Let's see.

Edit the password

One solution, if the Windows Credential Manager does not display the password, is to edit or remove it completelyTo edit your Windows credentials, follow these steps:

  1. Enter the control PanelUser accountsCredential Manager. Or type “Credential Manager” in the Windows search bar.
  2. Select the credential and click on "Edit".
  3. Change the username or password (you won't be able to see the password, just change it to a new one).
  4. Click Save.
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This is useful if you changed the password on the server or application and need Windows to use the new one. But keep in mind that if it is a network or password Remote Desktop, you'll need to change it from the remote computer or ask your administrator to reset it. Otherwise, you won't be able to access the network or remote desktop.

Remove the password in the Credential Manager

Another option you have is remove the credential completely and log back inIn that case, automatic access will be deleted immediately, and Windows will no longer be able to automatically log in to that service, network, or application. You'll have to enter the username and password manually the next time you log in.

Now, keep in mind that Removing the credential does not delete the original account, just delete the local copy of the credential. The account on the server, network, or app will still exist. And, in any case, you can save the credential again when you log in again by checking the "Remember credentials" box.

Windows Credential Manager doesn't show your password: Search in your browser

If the Windows Credential Manager doesn't show your password, you still have another option: you can recover passwords saved in browsersOf course, this only applies if the credential is associated with a website or browser. For example, you can check:

  • Microsoft Edge: Menu (three dots in the top right corner) – Passwords.
  • Google Chrome: Menu – Passwords & Autofill – Google Password Manager.
  • Mozilla Firefox: Settings – Privacy & Security – Saved Passwords.
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Restart your PC

Many of the inconveniences that suddenly arise can be solved with a simple restart of your PCIf you haven't had any issues with the Credential Manager until recently, but it suddenly started crashing, then it may not be that serious. Try restarting your PC and trying again to see if the Credential Manager issue is resolved.

Additional tips when Windows Credential Manager doesn't show your password

Computer password

What else should you consider if the Windows Credential Manager doesn't display your password? This is a powerful tool that makes it easier to access protected resources, but it's also designed with strong security measures in mind. If you can't see your password, remember that it's not a failure, it's a protection.

Of course, don't forget that you can edit or delete the credentials you have saved there. Also, remember that, If they are linked to websites such as browsers, you will be able to view the passwords from there.Finally, here are some tips to help you get the most out of Credential Manager without sacrificing your security:

  • Don't share your Windows session if you have saved credentials.
  • Use an account password or PIN to protect physical access.
  • Review your credentials periodically and delete any you no longer use.

This will keep your personal information safe. Now that you know why the Windows Credential Manager doesn't show your password and how to fix it, you can be more calm.No need to worry!