How to Create a WiFi QR Code So Guests Connect Without a Password

Published · 2 min read

Make a free WiFi QR code for your café, hotel, office or home. How it works, how to scan it on iPhone and Android, and security tips for sharing WiFi.

"What's the WiFi password?" is probably the most common question in cafés, hotels and offices. With a WiFi QR code, guests open their camera, scan and connect instantly, with no spelling out long passwords. Here is how to create one, how to scan it and how to share WiFi safely.

How does a WiFi QR code work?

A WiFi QR code stores the network name (SSID), security type and password in a standard format that both iPhone and Android understand, for example:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:SunnyCafe;P:password123;;

When scanned, the phone shows a "Join network SunnyCafe" prompt and connects with one tap. Because it is a static QR code, it works even before the phone is online, which is exactly when your guest needs it.

How to create a WiFi QR code

  1. Open the WiFi QR code generator.
  2. Enter the exact network name (SSID); it is case-sensitive.
  3. Enter the password.
  4. Choose the encryption: WPA/WPA2/WPA3 for almost every modern router, WEP for very old ones, or "No password" for open networks.
  5. Turn on Hidden network if your WiFi does not broadcast its name.
  6. Pick a template, add a "Scan to join WiFi" frame and your logo, then download.

How to scan a WiFi QR code

  • iPhone: open the Camera app, point it at the code and tap the "Join network" banner.
  • Android: open the Camera or Google Lens. On many phones you can also go to Settings → WiFi → QR icon next to Add network.
  • Samsung: use the Camera or the QR scanner tile in Quick Settings.

See more devices in how to scan a QR code.

Show a WiFi QR code from your phone

If your phone is already connected, you can display a QR code to share the network:

  • Android: Settings → WiFi → tap the connected network → Share.
  • iPhone (iOS 18 and later): open the Passwords app → WiFi → choose the network → Show Network QR Code.

That code only lives on your screen, though. For a printable version with your logo and a frame for the counter, create one with our WiFi QR generator and download it as SVG.

Security tips for sharing WiFi by QR code

  • Anyone holding the code can read the password, so use a separate guest network isolated from computers, cameras and printers.
  • When you change the WiFi password, create and print a new code, or guests will not be able to connect.
  • In offices, never display the code for your internal network in the reception area.

Where to put your WiFi QR code

  • On the counter, tables or menus of cafés and restaurants.
  • On key-card holders or desks in hotel rooms and holiday rentals.
  • In meeting rooms and reception areas.
  • On the fridge or in the living room at home for visiting friends.

Place it at eye level, print it at least 3 × 3 cm and keep a white margin around it. Read our QR code printing tips for more.

Related articles