Typing a 16-character WiFi password on a phone is slow and error-prone. A WiFi QR code lets guests join by pointing their camera at it. It is useful for homes, short-term rentals, cafes, clinics, offices and events, and it takes about a minute to set up.
Key takeaways
- Use our free WiFi QR code generator: nothing is uploaded, your password stays in your browser.
- Enter the network name exactly, choose WPA/WPA2/WPA3 and download.
- Put the code on a guest network if your router supports it.
- Regenerate and replace the code whenever you change the password.
Step 1: find your network name and password
- On the router: the default name and password are printed on a sticker on the router.
- On Windows: open Settings, Network and internet, your WiFi network, then view the properties; the password is available under Security in the classic Network settings.
- On a Mac: use Keychain Access, find the network name and tick Show password.
- On Android and iPhone: recent versions can show a QR code for the network you are connected to under the WiFi settings.
The name is case sensitive. A capital letter or a trailing space in the wrong place will stop the connection from working.
Step 2: create the QR code
- Open the QR code generator and choose WiFi.
- Enter the network name (SSID) and password.
- Choose WPA/WPA2/WPA3. Tick Hidden network only if your router does not broadcast its name.
- Style it if you like: add a frame with the label WIFI and keep dark-on-light contrast.
- Download PNG for screens or SVG/PDF for printing.
Step 3: how guests scan it
| Phone | What to do |
|---|---|
| iPhone | Open the Camera app, point it at the code, tap the "Join network" banner. |
| Android | Open the Camera (or Google Lens), point at the code and tap the join option. |
| Older phones | Use a QR scanner app or ask for the password in words. |
Step 4: print and place it
- Print at least 3 cm wide on matte paper; laminate if it will be handled.
- Place it where guests need it: reception, table cards, fridge, living-room frame, waiting room screen.
- Add a short line of text such as "Scan to join our WiFi", plus the network name for people who prefer typing.
Keep your network safe
Use a guest network
Most modern routers let you create a separate guest network. It has its own password and keeps visitors away from your computers, printers, cameras and smart-home devices. Put the QR code for the guest network on display and keep the main password private.
Other good habits
- Use WPA2 or WPA3 security and a long password; see our password guide.
- Change the router's admin password from the default.
- Keep the router firmware updated.
- Turn on client isolation for the guest network if available.
- Rotate the WiFi password from time to time and update the code.
- For a business, read the basics in our small business cybersecurity guide.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| Phone says "wrong password" | Re-check capitals, spaces and look-alike characters such as 0 and O, then regenerate. |
| The camera does not recognise the code | Increase print size, improve lighting and make sure the code is dark on a light background. |
| Hidden network does not connect | Tick "Hidden network" in the generator. |
| It worked yesterday | Did the password or network name change? Create a new code. |
| Guests can see your devices | Move visitors to a guest network with isolation turned on. |
More QR code ideas
Besides WiFi, you can create codes for menus, contact cards and social pages. See our guides to QR code menus for restaurants and the vCard business card QR code. Need a custom network setup or a secure office? Contact our IT team.
