Share Wi-Fi without typing the password

Open the Wi-Fi QR tool, enter the network name (SSID), encryption, and password, then download the image. Phones that understand the WIFI: format will offer to join automatically.

What goes in the code

The standard string looks like WIFI:T:WPA;S:CafeGuest;P:example-pass;H:false;;. T is the security type (WPA, WEP, or nopass), S is the SSID, P is the password, and H marks a hidden network. Special characters in the SSID or password are escaped so scanners do not split the fields early.

WPA, WEP, or open

• WPA / WPA2 / WPA3 — typical home and small-business Wi-Fi. Choose this unless the network truly has no password.
• Open (nopass) — no password field. Fine for a captive-portal guest network; do not use it for a private LAN.
• WEP — outdated. Only use it if the access point still requires WEP.

Hidden networks

If the SSID does not broadcast, enable the hidden option in the tool. Guests still need to be close enough for the radio to hear the AP after they scan.

Printing

Place the code where people stand still — counter, table tent, or reception desk — not on a door that is only seen while walking past. Pair it with the SSID in plain text so someone whose phone fails can still type it.