How to Make a WiFi QR Code for Guests (Free, Works on Most Phones)

A WiFi QR code lets guests join your network by pointing their phone camera at it. They do not have to read out or type a long password. You make the code once, print it, and put it where guests can see it.

Here is how to make one for free, how to print it, and what to watch out for.

How a WiFi QR code works

A WiFi QR code stores your network details as text in a standard format. The common form looks like this:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:MyNetwork;P:MyPassword;;

T is the security type, such as WPA. Use nopass if the network has no password.
S is the network name (SSID).
P is the password.
If your network is hidden, there is also an H:true part.

When a phone scans it, it can offer to join that network. Most current phones can do this from the normal camera app, but always test with the phones of your guests, because older devices may need a scanner app.

Make the code in 3 steps

Open the QR code generator and choose the WiFi type.
Enter your network name and password, and pick the security type. If your router says "WPA2" or "WPA3", choosing WPA is normally right. Check your router's settings if you are not sure.
Download the code as an image.

The generator runs in your browser, so your password is not uploaded to a server. This matters, because a WiFi QR code contains your password in readable form.

If your network name or password contains special characters such as ;, ,, : or ", they have to be escaped in the text. A generator handles this for you, which is another reason to use one rather than typing the text by hand.

Test it before you print

Scan the code with your own phone.
Check that the phone offers to join the correct network.
Join and open a web page to confirm that the internet works.
If you can, try one Android phone and one iPhone.

Print tips

Size. Make it large enough to scan from a short distance. A common rule of thumb is at least 3 to 4 cm wide on a table card. Always test your printed copy.
Contrast. Black on white is safest.
Border. Keep an empty margin around the code. Do not crop it tight.
Label. Write "Scan to join the WiFi" and the network name in plain text next to it. Some guests will not know what the square is, and others will want to see which network they join.
Protect it. Put it in a small frame or a clear sleeve so it does not get wet or creased.

Where to put it

A frame in your guest room, living room or office reception.
On a table card in a cafe or small shop.
In a welcome folder for holiday rentals.
On a wall near the meeting room.

If you are a host with several rooms or units, make one code per network and keep a copy of the settings in a note.

Keep it safe

A WiFi QR code contains your password. Anyone who sees or photographs the code can join your network. Some practical steps:

Use a guest network. Many routers let you create a separate guest network with its own password. That keeps guests away from your own devices and files.
Do not put it where strangers can see it. In a shop, put it at the counter or in a place customers sit, not on the door or window.
Change the password when needed. If you change your WiFi password, the old code stops working. Make and print a new one.
Do not reuse your main password. Use a separate password for the guest network.

What if you cannot scan it?

Some phones or scanners do not read WiFi codes. Always keep the network name and password written near the code as a backup. It takes a few seconds for guests to type it if the scan fails.

A QR code that leads to a page instead

If you want to share more than a WiFi password, such as house rules, check-out times and local tips, put them on a single page. Make a page with a template or upload your own HTML or PDF on DropMyPage, and use the page's QR code. A free link lasts 7 days, so for a code you will print and keep, use a permanent link from the Pro plan.

FAQ

Do guests need an app to scan it?

Most current phones can scan QR codes from the normal camera app. Older phones may need a scanner app.

Is it safe to use an online generator for my WiFi password?

Choose one that works in your browser and does not upload your details. The generator on this site works in your browser. Whatever tool you use, do not use your main private password for guests.

Will the code stop working if I change my router?

The code stores your network name and password. If either one changes, the code no longer works, so make a new one.

Can I make a code for a hidden network?

The standard format supports it with an extra H:true part. At the time of writing, the generator on this site has no hidden-network option (it offers WPA, WEP and open networks), so for a hidden network use a generator that has one, or make the network visible for guests.