How to scan a QR code to connect to Wi-Fi: 2-minute instructions

Are you tired of manually entering long Wi-Fi passwords every time you connect a new device? Or are you trying to set up your internet connection? Smart TV, but the remote's keyboard isn't working properly? There's a solution: scanning the network's QR codeThis method saves time, eliminates typing errors, and works with even the most complex passwords containing symbols. !@#$%.

In this article - A complete guide to scanning Wi-Fi QR codes on all types of devices, from smartphones to smart TVs and laptops.We'll take a look at the built-in tools. Android 12+, iOS 16+, as well as third-party apps for older models. We'll also show you how to generate a QR code for your network if it's not on the router's sticker. All methods have been tested on the latest firmware versions from 2026.

1. What is a Wi-Fi QR code and where can I get one?

A QR code for connecting to Wi-Fi is a graphical representation of network data, including:

• 📶 Network name (SSID) - For example, TP-Link_5G_1234
• 🔑 Password (PSK) — can contain up to 63 characters
• 🔄 Encryption type - usually WPA2-PSK or WPA3-PSK
• 🌐 Hidden network — flag if the SSID is not broadcast

Where to find the QR code:

1. Sticker on the router - most modern models (ASUS RT-AX88U, Keenetic Giga, Xiaomi AX6000) have a code on the bottom bar next to the login information.
2. Provider's personal account - at Rostelecom, MTS or Beeline The code can be generated in the "My Network" section.
3. Router mobile application - For example, TP-Link Tether or Mi Wi-Fi allow you to create a code in 2 clicks.

If you don't have a QR code, you can easily generate one yourself. Online services like qi-fi.com or applications like QR Code Generator. Simply enter the network name and password - the system will automatically generate a code in the format WIFI:S:;T:;P:;;.

⚠️ Caution: Do not scan Wi-Fi QR codes from unknown sources (such as those printed in cafes or hotels). Attackers can spoof them to redirect traffic through a proxy server. Always check the network name before connecting.

2. How to scan a Wi-Fi QR code on Android

Modern versions Android (starting from Android 10, but full support appeared in Android 12) have a built-in QR code scanner for Wi-Fi. The instructions are relevant for Samsung Galaxy S23, Google Pixel 7, Xiaomi Redmi Note 12 and other devices running pure Android or shells One UI, MIUI, ColorOS.

Steps to connect:

1. Open Settings → Network and Internet → Wi-Fi.
2. Tap on the icon QR code (usually in the upper right corner next to the add network button).
3. Point the camera at the QR code. Hold the device at a distance. 10–20 cm for clear scanning.
4. Confirm the connection in the window that appears. The system will automatically fill in the fields. SSID And Password.

Enable Wi-Fi in Settings

Allow camera access for the Settings app

Make sure the QR code is not damaged (no scratches or creases)

Bring your phone closer to the code in low light-->

If your Android version does not have a built-in scanner, use Google Lens:

• 📷 Open the app Camera → select mode Lens (or Google Lens).
• 🔍 Point to the QR code. The system will recognize it as "Wi-Fi network" and prompt you to connect.
• 🔗 Tap on the notification Connect to the network.

For older devices (Android 8-9) you will need a third-party app, such as QR & Barcode Scanner from Gamma PlayAfter scanning, it will open a link like this WIFI:T:WPA;S:mynetwork;P:mypassword;; - Tap on it to connect.

3. Scan a QR code on iPhone (iOS 16 and later)

Apple Added support for Wi-Fi QR codes in iOS 11, but the user-friendly interface only appeared in iOS 16On . iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone SE (3rd generation) and other models the process takes less than 10 seconds.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Open the app Camera (don't take a photo, just point at the code).
2. Wait for a yellow frame to appear around the QR code and a notification to appear. Wi-Fi network at the top of the screen.
3. Tap the notification. iOS will automatically connect to the network without asking for a password.

What to do if iPhone doesn't recognize QR code?

If the notification does not appear:

1. Check if Wi-Fi is turned on Control center.

2. Make sure the code is not damaged (try scanning it from another device).

3. Update iOS to the latest version in Settings → General → Software Update.

4. As a last resort, use an app QR Reader from Scanbot

On iPad (including models with iPadOS 16+) The process is identical. Important: If you scan a code with a hidden network (where the SSID is not broadcast), you may need to manually select it from the list of available networks after connecting.

⚠️ Note: You can't generate a QR code for your network on an iPhone using the default settings. To do this, use apps like Qrafter or online services. An alternative is to send the guest a password via AirDrop (V Wi-Fi settings → tap on the network → Password).

4. Connecting Smart TV to Wi-Fi via QR code

Smart TVs Samsung, LG, Sony Bravia And Xiaomi support QR code scanning, but the implementation varies. Below are the current methods for the models 2020–2026.

Detailed instructions for Samsung QLED/QN90C:

1. Press on the remote control Home → Settings (gear icon).
2. Go to General → Connection QR code.
3. Point the TV camera at the code (if the TV does not have a camera, use a phone with the app) SmartThings).
4. Confirm the connection on the TV screen.

For LG OLED C2 and newer:

• 📱 Install the application LG ThinQ on the phone.
• 🔗 In the app, select your TV → Settings → Wi-Fi connection → QR code.
• 📷 Scan the code with your phone's camera - the data will automatically be transferred to the TV.

5. Scanning a QR code on Windows 10/11

Unlike mobile devices, Windows There's no built-in QR code scanner for Wi-Fi. However, there are workarounds:

Method 1: Using the Camera app + PowerShell

1. Scan the code with a standard application Camera (click Win + S → enter "Camera").
2. Copy the text from the notification (starts with WIFI:).
3. Open PowerShell as administrator and enter:

   netsh wlan add profile filename="C:\temp\wifi.xml"

   Where wifi.xml — a file with network data (can be created manually by Microsoft template).

Method 2: Third-party utilities

• 🖥️ QR Code WiFi — portable program for generating/scanning codes.
• 🌐 WiFi QR Connect — extension for Chrome, which recognizes codes from web pages.

For Windows 11 with the update 23H2 An experimental scanning function has appeared Settings → Network & Internet → Wi-Fi → Advanced settings, but it doesn't work on all devices.

6. How to create a QR code for your Wi-Fi network

If your router doesn't have a QR code or you've changed the password, generate one yourself. You'll need:

• 📝 Network name (SSID) — look in the router settings or on the sticker.
• 🔐 Password - If you forgot, reset the router using the button Reset (hold for 10 seconds).
• 🌍 Encryption type - usually WPA2-PSK (specified in Router Settings → Wireless Network).

Method 1: Online generators

1. Go to the website qi-fi.com or qifi.org.
2. Enter network data in the fields:

   Network Name (SSID): <your_network_name>
   Password: <your_password>
   Security: WPA2 (or WPA3, if supported)
   Hidden: Yes/No (if the network is hidden)

3. Download the generated QR code in the following format: PNG or SVG.

Method 2: Mobile applications

• 📱 QR Code Generator (Android/iOS) - allows you to create a code and save it to the gallery.
• 📱 WiFi Key Share — generates a code and sends it via messengers.

For routers ASUS, Keenetic And TP-Link A QR code can be generated directly in the web interface:

1. Enter in your browser 192.168.1.1 (or another IP of your router).
2. Log in (default logins: admin/admin or admin/password).
3. Go to the section Wireless network → QR code (in new firmware).

7. Common mistakes and their solutions

Even with proper scanning, problems can arise. Let's look at some typical scenarios:

If the device connects to the network, but the Internet does not work:

• 🔄 Reboot your router (unplug it for 30 seconds).
• 📡 Check if "Client Isolation Mode" is enabled on your router (Client Isolation).
• 🛠️ Update your router firmware in the section Administration → Software Update.

⚠️ Attention: On some routers (Zyxel Keenetic, MikroTikThe QR code may contain connection information for a guest network, not the main one. Check the network name (SSID) in the code before connecting.

FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions

Is it possible to scan a Wi-Fi QR code on a laptop without a camera?

Yes, there are two options:

1. Use an external webcam and program QR Code Scanner (For example, ZXing Decoder).
2. Scan the code on your phone, then manually enter the details into your laptop's Wi-Fi settings.

For MacBook the app will do QR Journal from App Store.

Why does the TV ask for a password after scanning the QR code?

This happens in three cases:

• The QR code contains incorrect data (for example, an outdated password).
• The network is hidden and the TV requires connection confirmation.
• The router has the function enabled WPS, which conflicts with the QR connection (disable it in the router settings).

Solution: Generate a new QR code or connect manually.

Is it safe to share a Wi-Fi QR code with guests?

A QR code is just as secure as the network password itself. Risks:

• 🕵️‍♂️ A guest can connect other devices to your network.
• 📡 If a guest scans the code from their phone, they can save network data.

Recommendations:

• Create guest network on a router with limited access.
• Generate temporary QR codes through apps like WiFi Key Share (they last for 1-24 hours).

How to scan a QR code on a smartwatch (Apple Watch, Galaxy Watch)?

Smartwatches do not support direct Wi-Fi connection via QR code, but you can:

1. Scan the code on your phone and then sync the network with your watch (for example, via Apple Watch or Wear OS).
2. Use the watch as a TV remote control (in Samsung SmartThings or Google Home) and scan the code via TV.

On Apple Watch Wi-Fi networks are controlled via the paired iPhone.

Does QR connection work with 5GHz networks?

Yes, a QR code can contain data for the network. 5 GHz, But:

• Make sure your device supports 5 GHz (older smartphones can only work on 2.4 GHz).
• In your router, make sure that the same password is enabled for 5 GHz as for 2.4 GHz (or generate a separate QR code for each frequency).

Example SSID for 5 GHz: MyNetwork_5G.