Tired of repeating your WiFi password to every guest? A WiFi QR code lets visitors connect to your network instantly by simply scanning with their smartphone. No more spelling out complex passwords or watching guests struggle to type them correctly.

What is a WiFi QR Code?

A WiFi QR code is a special type of QR code that contains your network credentials in a format smartphones automatically recognise. When scanned, the phone offers to connect to your WiFi network—no manual password entry required.

The QR code encodes three key pieces of information:

SSID: Your network name
Password: Your network password
Security type: WPA, WPA2, WPA3, or WEP

How WiFi QR Codes Work

WiFi QR codes use a standardised format that all modern smartphones understand. The encoded data follows this structure:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;;

Where T is the security type, S is the SSID (network name), and P is the password. When a phone camera reads this format, it automatically offers to join the network.

Step-by-Step: Creating Your WiFi QR Code

Step 1: Find Your Network Credentials

You'll need three things:

Network name (SSID): The exact name that appears when devices search for WiFi
Password: Your WiFi password (case-sensitive)
Security type: Usually WPA2 for most modern networks

Where to find these:

Check the label on your router
Look in your router's admin settings
On a connected device, check WiFi settings
Contact your internet provider if unsure

Step 2: Choose a QR Code Generator

Use a QR code generator that specifically supports WiFi codes. Enter your network name, password, and select your security type (WPA/WPA2 is most common).

Step 3: Generate and Test

Before printing, test your QR code with multiple devices:

Test with both iPhone and Android
Verify the connection actually works
Check the password was encoded correctly (some special characters need attention)

Step 4: Print and Display

Print your QR code and place it somewhere guests can easily access it. Popular locations include:

Kitchen fridge or noticeboard
Guest bedroom nightstand
Living room side table
Reception desk (for businesses)
Hotel room information folders

WiFi Security Types Explained

WPA3

The newest and most secure standard. Use this if your router and all devices support it.

WPA2

The most common security type. Compatible with nearly all devices from the last 15 years. This is likely what you should select.

WPA

Older standard, less secure than WPA2. Only use if you have legacy devices that don't support WPA2.

WEP

Outdated and insecure. Avoid using WEP if possible—upgrade your router security.

No Password (Open Network)

For open networks without passwords. Not recommended for home or business use due to security risks.

WiFi QR Code Use Cases

Home Use

Create a nicely designed QR code for your home network. Frame it in your hallway or living room. When friends visit, they can connect in seconds without you having to remember or spell out your password.

Airbnb and Holiday Rentals

Include a WiFi QR code in your welcome guide. Guests appreciate the convenience, and you'll field fewer "what's the WiFi password?" messages.

Hotels and B&Bs

Place QR codes in each room linking to the guest WiFi. Update seasonally or for events without reprinting if you use a dynamic QR code pointing to a WiFi credentials page.

Cafes and Restaurants

Display WiFi QR codes on table tents, menus, or near the counter. Customers connect instantly without asking staff for the password.

Offices

Create separate QR codes for guest WiFi and staff networks. Display the guest code in reception areas and meeting rooms.

Retail Shops

Offer free WiFi to encourage customers to spend more time in-store. A QR code at the entrance makes it easy to connect.

Design Tips for WiFi QR Codes

Add Context

Include text like "Scan to connect to WiFi" or a WiFi icon so people know what the QR code does.

Match Your Decor

Customise colours to complement your home or business aesthetic. A well-designed QR code can be part of your interior design rather than an eyesore.

Size Appropriately

For a QR code on a wall or counter, aim for at least 5 x 5cm (2 x 2 inches). Smaller codes work on tabletops where phones get closer.

Include Network Name

Print your network name below the QR code. This helps users verify they're connecting to the right network, especially in places with multiple networks.

Security Considerations

Use a Guest Network

If you're sharing WiFi with many people, consider setting up a separate guest network. This keeps your main network (with personal devices, smart home equipment) isolated from visitor traffic.

Change Passwords Periodically

For high-traffic environments (Airbnb, offices), change passwords regularly. If using a WiFi QR code, remember to regenerate and reprint it when passwords change.

Don't Share Your Admin Password

The WiFi password should only allow network access, not router administration. Keep your router admin credentials separate and secure.

Troubleshooting WiFi QR Codes

Code Won't Scan

Ensure adequate size (minimum 2 x 2cm)
Check colour contrast—dark on light works best
Avoid glossy surfaces that create glare
Test in good lighting

Phone Doesn't Offer to Connect

Older phones may need a dedicated QR scanner app
iPhones need iOS 11 or later for automatic WiFi QR recognition
Android needs version 10 or later (or manufacturer-specific support)

Connection Fails After Scanning

Double-check the password encoding (case-sensitive)
Verify the security type matches your router settings
Check for special characters that may not encode correctly
Ensure the network is within range

Create Your WiFi QR Code

Ready to simplify WiFi sharing? Our free WiFi QR code generator creates instant-connect codes in seconds. Just enter your network details, customise the design, and download. Your guests will thank you.