How to Make a Wi-Fi QR Code

A Wi-Fi QR code lets guests join your network by scanning, with no need to read out a long password. Most modern phones will offer to connect as soon as the camera recognises the code.

Why use a Wi-Fi QR code?

If you run a cafe, guest house, office, salon or even just a busy household, you probably get asked for the Wi-Fi password all day. Passwords can be long and full of capital letters, numbers and symbols, which makes them easy to mistype. A QR code solves this and also means you never have to say your password out loud.

The Wi-Fi QR format

A Wi-Fi QR code contains text written in a standard format that phones understand:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:YourNetworkName;P:YourPassword;;

Here is what each part means:

• T is the security type. Use WPA for most home and business networks. Use WEP for very old networks, or nopass for an open network.
• S is the network name (SSID), spelled exactly as it appears, including capital letters.
• P is the password.
• The two semicolons at the end close the code.

Example for a network called CafeGuest with the password Welcome2026:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:CafeGuest;P:Welcome2026;;

If your network name or password contains special characters such as a semicolon, comma, colon or backslash, put a backslash in front of that character.

How to generate it

1. Write your Wi-Fi text in the format above.
2. Paste it into the SnapQR input box.
3. Generate and download the code.
4. Print it or display it where guests can see it.

How guests use it

On most iPhones and Android phones, guests open the camera, point it at the code, and tap the pop-up that offers to join the network. No app is required on recent versions of iOS and Android.

Security tips

• Anyone who can see the code can join your network, so only display it where you are happy for people to connect.
• Use a separate guest network if your router supports it. This keeps your main devices and files apart from visitors.
• If you change your Wi-Fi password, the old QR code stops working. Generate and print a new one.
• Do not post a Wi-Fi code that includes your private password on public social media.

Where to put it

Frame it on a table, stick it near the reception desk, or add it to a welcome card in a guest room. Add a small line such as "Scan to join our Wi-Fi" so the purpose is clear.

Troubleshooting

• Nothing happens when scanning: Check that the text starts with WIFI: in capital letters and ends with two semicolons.
• Phone says wrong password: Re-type the password carefully, paying attention to capital letters and similar-looking characters such as O and 0.
• Older phone will not scan: Install any free QR scanner app, or enter the details manually.

A Wi-Fi QR code is a small touch that makes your space feel more welcoming and saves you from repeating yourself.