How to Generate QR Codes for WiFi Networks

What Is a WiFi QR Code?

A WiFi QR code is a special type of QR code that contains your network name (SSID), password, and encryption type in a standardized format. When someone scans this code with their smartphone camera, their device automatically connects to your WiFi network without having to type anything.

This works on both Android and iOS devices. Android has supported WiFi QR codes since version 10, and iOS added support in iOS 11. That means virtually every modern smartphone can use them.

The WiFi QR Code Format

WiFi QR codes use a specific text format that phones recognize automatically:

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

Here is what each part means:

T: Encryption type — WPA, WEP, or leave empty for open networks
S: Your network name (SSID)
P: Your WiFi password
H: Optional — set to true if the network is hidden

How to Create a WiFi QR Code (Step by Step)

Step 1: Find Your WiFi Details

You need three things: your network name (SSID), your password, and your encryption type. Most modern routers use WPA2 or WPA3 — just select WPA in the QR code generator as it covers both.

You can usually find these details on a sticker on your router, or in your router's admin panel (typically at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).

Step 2: Generate the QR Code

Open the NeatTools QR Code Generator and enter the WiFi string in this format:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:MyHomeNetwork;P:MySecretPassword123;;

Replace MyHomeNetwork with your actual network name and MySecretPassword123 with your actual password. Click generate and your QR code is ready.

Step 3: Download and Share

Download the QR code image and:

Print it and place it near your router or on a wall
Frame it for your Airbnb, office, or cafe
Add it to your welcome packet for guests
Save it on your phone to show to visitors

Step 4: Test It

Open the camera app on your phone and point it at the QR code. You should see a notification asking if you want to join the WiFi network. Tap it and you are connected.

When to Use WiFi QR Codes

At Home

Print and stick near your router. Guests scan instead of asking for the password every time.

Airbnb / Rental

Include in your welcome guide or frame on the wall. Guests connect instantly.

Office / Coworking

Place at the reception or meeting rooms. No more IT tickets for WiFi access.

Cafe / Restaurant

Print on table cards or the menu. Customers connect without bothering staff.

Security Tips

✓ Use WPA2 or WPA3 — Never use WEP encryption. It is outdated and can be cracked in minutes.
✓ Guest network — Consider creating a separate guest network with limited access. Generate a QR code for the guest network only.
✓ Change periodically — If you share the QR code publicly (cafe, Airbnb), change your password and QR code periodically.
✓ Use NeatTools — Your WiFi credentials are processed locally in the QR code. NeatTools never stores or transmits your password.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does scanning a WiFi QR code work on iPhone?

Yes. iPhones running iOS 11 or later can scan WiFi QR codes using the built-in camera app. Just point your camera at the code and tap the notification that appears.

Can someone steal my password from the QR code?

The password is encoded in the QR code, so anyone who scans it or decodes the image can read it. Only share your WiFi QR code with people you trust, or use a guest network.

What if I change my WiFi password?

You will need to generate a new QR code with the updated password. The old QR code will no longer work.

Does it work with hidden networks?

Yes. Add H:true to the string: WIFI:T:WPA;S:MyNetwork;P:MyPassword;H:true;;