How to Share Your Wi-Fi Password With a QR Code
Credit: Rawpixel.com / Adobe Stock
Toggle Dark Mode
Most of you are probably familiar with requesting and sharing Wi-Fi access on your iPhone. Since iOS 11, iPhone users have been able to request and share Wi-Fi with each other without the need to type in a password.
As long as both are running iOS 11 or later, have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enabled, and have each other’s Apple ID email address saved to contacts, requesting and granting Wi-Fi access is easy. The person wishing to join a network simply chooses the Wi-Fi network they wish to connect to from Settings. The other person already on the network will then immediately receive a notification asking if they want to share the password. Once this person taps “Share Password,” access to the Wi-Fi network is immediately given.
Unfortunately, this Wi-Fi sharing feature only works with Apple devices running the latest operating system. It also doesn’t work for anyone with an Android phone or Windows PC. So, how do you share a Wi-Fi password with these stragglers, especially if you don’t remember it yourself? Fortunately, Apple created a solution to this with its native Passwords app that launched last year in iOS 18. You can now easily create a QR code for Wi-Fi access from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac! Here’s how:
- Find and open the Passwords app on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
- Go to Wi-Fi.
- Select the Wi-Fi network for which you want to generate a QR code.
- Tap Show Network QR Code.
The QR code should be largely displayed on your iPhone (or iPad or Mac). The person wishing to connect needs only to scan the code from their device, usually with their camera app.
Alternatively, you can print this QR code for future use. You can keep it safely tucked away in a drawer and only bring it out when necessary. If you want, post it on the wall somewhere visible so anyone can conveniently join. If you’re running a vacation rental, maybe keep the printout in a binder with other house rules.
Using a QR code to share your Wi-Fi is a hassle-free way to allow access without having to repeatedly share your password or confirm requests for individual guests. If you’re hosting a party or guests overnight, it keeps things simple. You can always change your password once everyone leaves so you can continue to manage access according to your preferences. This is just one way we can use QR codes to streamline everyday life. Stay tuned for more.
