Wi-Fi QR Code Generator
A Wi-Fi QR code is a text string in the form WIFI:T:WPA;S:HomeNet;P:correct horse;;, shown as a QR pattern. A phone camera reads it and offers to join the network, so guests never type the password. That example fits a 29 by 29 version 3 code.
How to use
- Type the network name exactly as it appears on your devices. Capitals and spaces matter.
- Enter the password and choose the security type. Most home routers use WPA / WPA2 / WPA3; choose No password for an open network.
- Tick Hidden network only if your router does not broadcast its name.
- Download the code as PNG or SVG and print it, then scan it with a phone camera to test before you hang it up.
How it works
The code does not hold your Wi-Fi password in any special form. It holds a plain text line that phones recognise: WIFI:T:WPA;S:network name;P:password;; where T is the security type (WPA, WEP or nopass), S is the network name, P is the password, and an optional H:true marks a hidden network.
The characters backslash, semicolon, comma, colon and double quote have special meaning in that line, so each one in your name or password is written with a backslash in front of it. For example the password a;b becomes a\;b. The tool does this for you.
The line is then encoded as a standard QR code, using the same ISO/IEC 18004 encoder as the QR Code Generator.
Fields in the code
| Field | Meaning | Values |
|---|---|---|
| T | Security type | WPA (also WPA2 and WPA3), WEP, nopass |
| S | Network name (SSID) | Your text, escaped |
| P | Password | Your text, escaped; left out for nopass |
| H | Hidden network | true when ticked |
Tips for a code that works
- Scan it yourself on an iPhone and an Android phone before printing a batch.
- Print at least 3 cm (about 1.2 in) wide with a blank margin of 4 modules around it. The default margin is already 4.
- If you change the router password, the old code stops working. Make a new one.
- A hidden network needs the Hidden option; otherwise the phone may not find it.
Sources and notes
- The WIFI: format is documented in the ZXing project wiki (Barcode Contents, Wi-Fi Network config). Android and iOS cameras follow it.
- The QR encoder follows ISO/IEC 18004:2015. QR Code is a registered trademark of DENSO WAVE INCORPORATED.
FAQ
Is it safe to put my Wi-Fi password in a QR code?
The password is stored in the code in readable form, so anyone who can scan or photograph the code can join your network. Treat a printed Wi-Fi code like a written password: put it where only people you trust can see it, and use a guest network if you can.
Does it work on both iPhone and Android?
Yes. The iPhone Camera app and the Android camera or Google Lens read the WIFI: format and offer to join. Some older Android versions need a QR scanner app.
Which security type do I pick?
WPA / WPA2 / WPA3 for nearly every router made in the last 15 years. WEP is obsolete and insecure, and only needed for very old equipment. Pick No password for an open network.
Why does it say my WPA password is too short?
WPA and WPA2 passphrases must be 8 to 63 characters. A shorter one cannot be what your router uses, so check for a typo.
Is my password sent anywhere?
No. The code is built entirely in your browser. Nothing is uploaded or stored.