What Is a WiFi QR Code?
A WiFi QR code is a QR code that encodes your WiFi network's credentials — the network name (SSID), password, and security type. When someone scans it with their phone camera, their device automatically connects to the network without any typing.
This is the standard way to share WiFi access in restaurants, hotels, Airbnbs, offices, conference rooms, and events.
How to Create a WiFi QR Code (Free, 3 Steps)
Step 1: Open TooStamply's QR Generator
Go to TooStamply's QR Code Generator — no signup, no download, opens instantly in your browser.
Step 2: Select WiFi Type and Enter Your Details
- Network Name (SSID): The name of your WiFi network (exactly as it appears in the WiFi list — case sensitive)
- Password: Your WiFi password
- Security Type: WPA/WPA2 (most common), WEP (old routers), or None (open network)
- Hidden Network: Toggle on if your network is set to not broadcast its SSID
Step 3: Customize and Download
Add your logo, change colors, pick a shape, add a frame — then download as PNG (up to 2048px) or SVG for print-ready quality.
WiFi QR Code Format (Technical)
WiFi QR codes use a standardized encoding format:
WIFI:T:WPA;S:YourNetworkName;P:YourPassword;;
- T: Security type (WPA, WEP, or empty for none)
- S: SSID (network name)
- P: Password
- H: Hidden (true/false, optional)
TooStamply generates this encoding automatically — you just fill in the fields.
Where to Use WiFi QR Codes
Restaurants & Cafes
Print on table tent cards, menu backs, or wall signs. Guests connect themselves — no staff interruption needed. A laminated A5 table card is the most durable format.
Best practice: Create a separate guest network (most modern routers support this). Name it something like "CafeName-Guest" and use a simple memorable password for the QR code. Your main network stays private.
Hotels & Hospitality
Print on welcome cards, key envelopes, or room info sheets. Guests connect on arrival without hunting for a password card or calling the front desk.
Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals
Print on a welcome frame near the door or on the fridge. Guests appreciate the instant connection. Update the QR code if you change your password (free to regenerate anytime).
Offices & Coworking Spaces
Display in reception, meeting rooms, and phone booths. Different QR codes for different networks (employee vs. guest vs. conference room). Print as A4 desk cards or A3 wall posters.
Events & Conferences
Print on registration badges, stage backdrops, or event programs. A 400x400px QR code on a badge is readable from arm's length.
Retail & Boutiques
Display at point of sale or fitting rooms. Customers who connect to your WiFi are more likely to share your products to social media while in-store.
Security Considerations
Use a Guest Network for Public QR Codes
Most modern routers (ASUS, TP-Link, Netgear, Eero, etc.) support a separate guest network that is isolated from your main network. Create a guest network specifically for QR code sharing:
- Log into your router admin panel (usually 192.168.1.1)
- Find "Guest Network" or "Guest WiFi" settings
- Create a separate SSID with its own password
- Enable client isolation (prevents guest devices from seeing each other)
- Generate the QR code for the guest network only
This way, if someone extracts the password from your QR code, they only have access to the guest network — not your main network or connected devices.
Who Can Read the QR Code?
The password is encoded in the QR code image. Anyone with a QR code reader app can read the raw data. For a public location, assume the password is public knowledge — design your network security accordingly.
Change Your Password Without Reprinting?
If you regenerate the QR code after a password change, you'll need to reprint physical displays. This is why keeping a simple, memorable guest password makes sense — you change it rarely (if ever) because the guest network is already isolated.
Scanning WiFi QR Codes — Device Guide
iPhone (iOS 11+)
- Open the Camera app
- Point at the QR code
- Tap the "Join Network" notification at the top of the screen
- Done — connected automatically
Alternatively: Settings → WiFi → tap the QR code icon next to "Other..."
Android (Android 10+)
- Open the Camera app
- Point at the QR code
- Tap the notification to connect
- Done
On Android 9 and earlier, use Google Lens or a QR scanner app.
Samsung Galaxy
Settings → Connections → WiFi → tap the QR code icon → scan
Windows (Windows 10/11)
Windows does not natively scan QR codes for WiFi connection. Users need a QR reader app, or can enter the credentials manually.
macOS
macOS does not natively scan WiFi QR codes. iPhone/iPad hotspot to macOS is a workaround, or use a QR reader app.
Printing Your WiFi QR Code
Recommended Sizes
| Use Case | Minimum Size | Recommended Size |
|---|---|---|
| Table tent card | 3×3 cm | 5×5 cm |
| A5 wall card | 5×5 cm | 8×8 cm |
| A4 poster | 8×8 cm | 12×12 cm |
| A3 wall sign | 12×12 cm | 20×20 cm |
| Digital display | 200×200 px | 400×400 px |
Download Format
- PNG at 2048px — for most print sizes up to A4
- SVG — for large format printing (A3, banners, signs) — scales infinitely
Design Tips
- Add your business logo to reinforce branding
- Include a "Scan for WiFi" call to action text above or below the code
- Use high contrast — dark QR on light background scans most reliably
- Laminate if displaying in high-moisture areas (kitchens, bathrooms, outdoor spaces)
WiFi QR Code vs. NFC Tag
| WiFi QR Code | NFC Tag | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free (print only) | $0.50–$2 per tag |
| iOS support | iOS 11+ (camera) | iOS 14+ (background reading) |
| Android support | Android 10+ native | Android 4.4+ |
| Physical durability | Paper (laminate for durability) | Waterproof available |
| Customizable appearance | Yes (full design) | Minimal |
| Tapable | No | Yes |
For most businesses, WiFi QR codes win on cost and visual flexibility. NFC tags are useful in upscale settings where physical aesthetic matters and budget allows.
Related Guides
- Free QR Code Generator — All Types — URL, vCard, WhatsApp, and more
- WiFi QR Code Generator Tool — dedicated WiFi QR generator
- QR Code Design Ideas — add logos, colors, and frames
- QR Code for Restaurant Menu — contactless menu guide
- How to Scan QR Code on iPhone — complete iOS guide
- How to Scan QR Code on Android — complete Android guide