QR code for WiFi: connect without showing the password
The customer scans and the phone connects automatically — no asking anyone
A WiFi QR code encodes the network credentials in a format recognised by iOS and Android. When scanned, the phone offers to connect directly to the network without the user having to see or copy the password.
How does a WiFi QR code work?
The QR encodes SSID, password and encryption type in the format WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password. The phone recognises it and offers to connect without typing anything.
The format a WiFi QR code uses is an open standard recognised by iOS 11 or later and Android 9 or later:
WIFI:T:WPA2;S:NetworkName;P:Password123;;
Where:
• T: is the encryption type (WPA2, WPA3, WEP, or empty for open network)
• S: is the SSID (WiFi network name)
• P: is the password
When someone scans this QR with their phone camera, iOS and Android show a notification like 'Join NetworkName'. The user taps join and connects. No typing, no copying, no asking.
How to create a WiFi QR code on codigo-qr.es?
In the generator, choose WiFi type, enter the network name and password. The QR generates instantly. No registration, no cost.
Steps to create the WiFi QR code:
1. Go to /qr-code-generator 2. Select the 'WiFi' type 3. Enter the network name (SSID) 4. Enter the password 5. Select the encryption type (WPA2 for most modern routers) 6. Download the QR in PNG or SVG
The WiFi QR code is static and completely free: no account or subscription needed. The password is encoded inside the QR and is not sent to any server.
If you change the WiFi password in the future, you need to generate a new QR. To avoid reprinting, create a dynamic URL-type QR pointing to a page with connection instructions, and update the password there.
What network types does the WiFi QR code support?
Works with WPA2, WPA3 and WEP, and with open networks without a password. Does not work with captive portals or networks with per-user authentication.
Network types compatible with WiFi QR codes:
WPA2 and WPA3: the most common in homes and businesses. The QR works perfectly with both.
WEP: older, less secure protocol, but supported by the WiFi QR standard. If you have an old router with WEP, the QR will work.
Open network (no password): the QR connects directly without asking for a password.
What does not work:
Captive portal: some hotel or office networks redirect to a web login page before granting access. The QR may connect to the WiFi network, but the login portal still appears.
Per-user authentication (802.1X): corporate networks with individual credentials. The standard WiFi QR code is not compatible with this system.
Where to place the WiFi QR code in a business?
At the bar or counter, tables, reception and waiting room. One QR per zone with the network name for each zone reduces service interruptions.
The places with the best results:
Restaurant bar or counter: where the customer orders their first drink and most often asks for the password. A QR at eye level eliminates that interruption.
Tables: on a vertical stand (like the menu holder) or stuck to the table. The customer connects while waiting for their order.
Hotel reception: next to the welcome card or at the check-in desk. The guest arrives connected.
Waiting room (clinic, workshop, hairdresser): on the wall or on the magazine table. Waiting time is easier with WiFi.
If you have multiple networks (staff, guests), create a QR only for the guest network. Never expose the password for the staff or till network.
§CODIGO-QR.ES / PRO
Create your free WiFi QR code now
The WiFi QR code is completely free. No registration, no scan limit.
Preguntas frecuentes
- Does the WiFi QR code work on iPhone?
- Yes, from iOS 11. The native camera recognises the QR and shows the option to join the network without any additional app.
- What happens if I change the WiFi password?
- The QR stops working because the password is encoded inside the code. You need to generate a new QR with the updated password and replace the printed material.
- Is it safe to have the password in a visible QR code?
- For the guest network, yes: that network should be isolated from the business internal network. Never put the QR for the till or staff network in a public place.
- Can you make a QR for a hidden WiFi network (with no visible SSID)?
- Yes: the WIFI format includes the H:true field for hidden networks. In the codigo-qr.es generator you can mark the hidden network option and the QR includes that information for the phone to handle correctly.
Jose Flores
Fundador de codigo-qr.es · codigo-qr.es
Jose Flores es fundador de codigo-qr.es, herramienta de generación de QR dinámicos y códigos de barras creada en Barcelona en 2026. Especializado en soluciones digitales para pequeños negocios, desarrolla herramientas que permiten a restaurantes, comercios y profesionales digitalizar su comunicación sin infraestructura técnica propia.
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