How Wi-Fi QR codes work
A Wi-Fi QR code holds one short line of text in a format phones recognise: WIFI:T:WPA;S:network name;P:password;;. T is the security type, S the network name, P the password, and H:true marks a hidden network.
Point a phone camera at it and the phone offers to join. The iPhone Camera app has done this since iOS 11, and Android phones do it through the camera app or the QR scanner in Wi-Fi settings.
Special characters in names and passwords
The format uses semicolons, commas, colons, double quotes and backslashes to separate its fields. If your network name or password contains one, it needs a backslash in front, or phones read the wrong password. This tool escapes them for you, and you can see the exact text in the QR code text box.
Names and passwords are case-sensitive, so CafeGuest and cafeguest are different networks.
Which security type to choose
Check your router's settings or the label on the router if you're not sure. Almost every network today is the first option:
- WPA / WPA2 / WPA3: nearly every home and business router.
- WEP: an old standard found only on very old routers. If yours uses it, switch to WPA2 or WPA3 in the router settings.
- None: open networks with no password.
Keep your guest Wi-Fi safe
Anyone who sees the code can join, and the password can be read straight out of it with any QR app. Only put it where you'd happily write the password on the wall.
Use a separate guest network for visitors so they can't reach your own devices, and change its password now and then. Reprint the code each time you do, because the old one stops working.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to make a Wi-Fi QR code here?
Yes. The code is made in your browser and the password is never sent anywhere. Once the page has loaded, it works even with your internet turned off.
Do Wi-Fi QR codes work on iPhone?
Yes. Open the Camera app, point it at the code and tap the Wi-Fi prompt. iPhones have supported this since iOS 11.
What happens if I change my Wi-Fi password?
The old code stops working, because the password is stored in it. Make a new code with the new password and reprint it.
Why won't my phone join after scanning?
Check the network name and password match exactly, including capitals, and that the security type is right. Hidden networks also need the Hidden network switch turned on.