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Tutorial · 2 min read
How to make a Wi-Fi QR code that guests just scan.
Stop dictating your Wi-Fi password to visitors. A Wi-Fi QR code lets anyone with an iPhone or Android connect instantly by pointing their camera at a small square. Here's how — no app, no sign-up.
The short version
A Wi-Fi QR code is a regular QR code that encodes a specific text format: WIFI:S:NetworkName;T:WPA;P:password;;. Modern phones recognize this format and offer to join the network automatically. To make one, fill in the form below, then copy the string into any QR generator.
Step by step
- Fill in the form above with your Wi-Fi network name (SSID), password, and security type (usually WPA2 for home networks).
- Copy the generated string or click Generate QR code to open our free generator with the string pre-filled.
- Download the QR as a PNG or SVG, then print it and stick it wherever guests need to see it.
- Test it by pointing your phone's camera at it — you should see a notification to join the network.
Where to put your Wi-Fi QR code
- Cafés and restaurants — table cards or the back of the menu
- Airbnbs and rentals — in the welcome book or on the fridge
- Hotels — bedside cards
- Offices — reception area, meeting rooms, hot-desking spaces
- Homes — a small framed print by the door (surprisingly popular)
- Events and weddings — printed on the program alongside the venue Wi-Fi
What the Wi-Fi string looks like
Under the hood, a Wi-Fi QR code encodes a text string following a standard format. If your network name is CoffeeShop with password latte2026 using WPA2, the string is:
WIFI:S:CoffeeShop;T:WPA;P:latte2026;;You can build this string by hand, but the form above handles escaping special characters (like ; or \ in your password) automatically.
Privacy note: the password is encoded in plain text inside the QR code. Anyone who scans it — or takes a photo of it — can extract the password. Only use Wi-Fi QRs for networks you are happy for guests to share. For sensitive networks (corporate, banking, etc.), stick with typed passwords.
Does it work on all phones?
- iPhone: Yes, since iOS 11 (2017). Point the built-in Camera app at the QR.
- Android: Yes, since Android 10 (2019). Use the built-in camera or Google Lens.
- Older devices: Any QR reader app will decode the string and show a "Connect to network" option.
Frequently asked questions
Does a Wi-Fi QR code work on iPhone and Android?
Yes. All iPhones since iOS 11 (2017) and all Android phones running Android 10 or later can join Wi-Fi networks by scanning a QR code with the built-in camera app. No third-party app needed.
Is the Wi-Fi password visible in the QR code?
The password is encoded in plain text. Anyone who scans the QR (or takes a photo of it) can extract the password. Only use these for guest-shareable networks.
Should I use WPA, WPA2, or WPA3?
Choose whichever your router is configured with. WPA2 is the most common for home and small business routers. WPA3 is newer and more secure but not all client devices support it. Use WPA for very old networks. Choose "No password" only for genuinely open networks.
Can I make a QR for a hidden network?
Yes — check the "Hidden network" box. The QR string will include H:true so scanning devices know to look for a network that does not broadcast its name.
Do I need to sign up or pay for this?
No. adfreeqr.com is completely free with no account, no email, no watermark. The Wi-Fi string is built in your browser — your password never leaves your device.
Ready to generate the QR?
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