When friends or colleagues come to visit, you often face the same challenge: providing them with wireless network access. Instead of dictating a complex combination of uppercase and lowercase letters and numbers or writing it down on a piece of paper, modern technology makes this a snap. Wi-Fi transmission has become a standard feature in the Android ecosystem, freeing users from unnecessary routine tasks. However, not everyone knows where exactly this option is hidden and how to use it correctly to avoid compromising the security of their home network.
The connection data exchange process is based on QR code generation technology or a direct Bluetooth connection, making the process extremely fast. You don't need root access or third-party apps, as the necessary functionality is built into the operating system. In this article, we'll cover in detail how to transfer Wi-Fi from one phone to another on Android, explore the nuances of working with different OS versions, and address security considerations when granting access to your router.
Preparing devices for data exchange
Before you start transferring network settings, you need to make sure that both devices - yours and the receiving one - are in good working order. Wi-Fi module Both smartphones must have the wireless network enabled, as it will be used to scan the code or establish a connection. If the receiving device has airplane mode enabled or the wireless adapter disabled, the process will fail, regardless of how well you've performed.
It's also worth checking your operating system version. The native password sharing feature via QR code was introduced in Android 10, but on older versions (such as Android 9 and below), the interface may differ or require third-party solutions. Make sure your phone's screen is unlocked, as the security system often requires verification of the owner's identity before displaying saved passwords.
Distance between devices plays a significant role, especially when transmitting via Bluetooth Low Energy, which often runs in the background when trying to share an internet connection. Keep the devices no more than 10–15 centimeters apart when exchanging data. This will prevent read errors and speed up the synchronization process.
⚠️ Important: If you are in a public place, ensure the network you are sharing your password for is secure. Sharing access to corporate or guest networks may be restricted by your organization's security policies.
Generate a QR code for connection
The most common and universal way to transfer Wi-Fi from one phone to another on an Android phone is using a QR code. This method doesn't require an active Bluetooth connection between the devices and works on almost all modern smartphones. First, you need to access your device's wireless settings menu.
On most devices with a shell One UI Whether you're using a Samsung device or a stock Android device, the process is identical. Go to Settings, select Wi-Fi, and find the name of the network you're already connected to. Tap the gear icon or arrow next to the network name. In the menu that opens, you'll see a "Share" button or a QR code icon.
- 📱 Tap the "Share" option or the QR code icon in the network settings menu.
- 🔐 Complete biometric authorization (fingerprint or Face ID) to confirm actions.
- 👁️ A square code will appear on the screen, which contains the encrypted SSID and network password.
It is important to understand that this code contains full password In clear text (even if encrypted). Anyone with a camera and a QR code reader app will be able to access your network. Therefore, don't take screenshots of this code or send them to strangers via messaging apps. Once the guest scans the code, access will be granted automatically, without the need to manually enter the characters.
What to do if the QR code cannot be read?
If the camera isn't focusing, try increasing the brightness of the sending device's screen or slightly adjusting the angle. Also, make sure the receiving phone's camera lens is clean.
Using Nearby Share
An alternative to manual camera scanning is a fast data exchange feature known as Nearby Share (or "Quick Connection" on Xiaomi and Huawei devices). This method is even more convenient, as it doesn't require opening the camera app on the receiving device. The system will automatically find the nearby device and offer to transfer connection parameters.
To use this method, Bluetooth and location services must be enabled on both phones. When you tap the "Share" button in the Wi-Fi settings menu (as described above), the system will prompt you to select a transfer method. Select "Nearby Share" or a similar option. A connection request notification will appear on the receiving device's screen.
After accepting the request, the second phone will automatically receive all the necessary data and connect to the network. This method is especially useful if the receiving device has a broken camera or is having trouble focusing. The data transfer speed in this case is minimal, as only a text string containing the username and password is transmitted.
It's worth noting that for this feature to work, the devices must be authorized with Google accounts (or the manufacturer's corresponding services), although simply enabling Bluetooth is often sufficient. If the devices don't see each other, check their visibility in Bluetooth settings. Sometimes, restarting the wireless module on both devices helps.
Sharing access on Samsung devices
Smartphone owners Samsung Galaxy Access to advanced features thanks to the One UI interface. The process of transferring Wi-Fi from one Samsung phone to another differs slightly in visual design and additional security options. In the Wi-Fi settings menu, after selecting a network and tapping the QR code icon, the system may offer to not only display the code but also send it via Samsung Quick Share.
A unique feature of Samsung devices is the ability to generate an access code even without an active network connection, if you've previously saved the password in the system. This is convenient if you want to share your home network information but are currently in a different location and not connected to the router. Simply find the saved network in the list and select the "sharing" option.
| Function | Description | Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| QR code | Standard camera scanning | Camera, Android 10+ |
| Quick Share | Transfer via Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Direct | Bluetooth is enabled |
| Smart View | Broadcasting and control (rare) | One Wi-Fi network |
If you're using Samsung's ekosistemu, the process is almost instantaneous. However, if the receiving device is a budget phone from another manufacturer with a stripped-down version of Android, there may be delays in device detection. In this case, it's best to revert to the QR code method, which is the most universal.
Nuances for Xiaomi, Huawei, and Honor
Chinese electronics manufacturers such as Xiaomi (MIUI/HyperOS)Huawei (EMUI), and Honor (MagicOS) have implemented their own unique algorithms for handling wireless connections. In the MIUI interface, the QR code generation button is often hidden under the "tap to share" icon or located in the additional hotspot settings menu. Sometimes the system requires mobile data to be enabled for verification, even if Wi-Fi is already active.
On Huawei and Honor devices, the feature may be called "Share Wi-Fi" and can be activated by swiping down on the notification bar while holding the Wi-Fi icon. In some cases, especially on older firmware versions, the system may prompt you to create a temporary hotspot for data transfer, which consumes data, albeit minimally. Be careful when choosing this method to avoid losing mobile data packets.
Particular attention should be paid to access rightsSome operating systems require location permission to display the QR code, as scanning for Wi-Fi networks in Android is closely tied to location services. If the code doesn't appear, check the permissions in the Settings or Camera app.
⚠️ Note: The MIUI, EMUI, and MagicOS interfaces are frequently updated. Button locations may change. If you don't find the described elements, use the settings search by entering "QR" or "Share."
Solution and connection errors
Even if you follow all the instructions, technical difficulties may arise. One common issue is the error "Unable to obtain network data." This can occur if the receiving device has background activity restrictions or power saving mode is aggressively shutting down communication modules. Try disabling power saving mode while connecting.
Another common issue is incompatibility of encryption standards. If your router is configured to only operate in encryption mode, WPA3If the guest's old phone only supports WPA2, the connection may fail even if the password is transmitted correctly. In such cases, it is recommended to create the guest network on a router with more compatible parameters.
- 🔄 Restart the Wi-Fi module on both devices (turn it off/on).
- 📶 Make sure the receiving device is in a strong signal reception area.
- 🔒 Check if your router has MAC address filtering that is blocking new devices.
If all else fails, you can resort to the "heavy artillery"—resetting your network settings. This will delete all saved Wi-Fi passwords and Bluetooth pairings, but it often resolves software driver conflicts. Use this method only as a last resort, after all other options have been exhausted.
☑️ Diagnosing Wi-Fi problems
Security issues when transferring access
By handing over access to your network, you're essentially handing over the keys to your digital home. While modern encryption protocols are quite secure, there's always a risk that a guest's device could be infected with malware attempting to scan the local network. Therefore, it's highly recommended not to grant access to the main network where your devices are located. smart devices, printers and NAS storage.
The best practice is to use a guest network. Most modern routers allow you to create an isolated network segment that provides internet access only, but blocks access to the owner's local devices. Set up such a network in advance and transmit the password specifically for it.
It's also worth remembering about physical access. Don't leave the screen with the QR code on for long periods of time in a public place. An attacker could photograph the code from a distance and gain access to your network later, without you even knowing it. It's best to minimize the settings menu immediately after using this feature.
Is it possible to transfer Wi-Fi to iPhone from Android?
Yes, it's possible, but only via a QR code. Instant password sharing (like between two iPhones or two Android devices) doesn't work natively across different ecosystems. You need to generate a QR code on your Android device, then open the Camera app on your iPhone and point it at the code. The iPhone will recognize the network and prompt you to connect.
What should I do if the QR code does not appear?
This may be due to limitations in your Android version or the manufacturer's operating system. Try installing Google Lens or any QR code generator app, manually entering your network information (SSID and password), and generating a code to display on the screen. Also, check if your screen is locked.
Is it safe to scan QR codes from strangers?
No, it's risky. A QR code can contain not only Wi-Fi connection information, but also a link to a malicious website or a command to perform an action. Only scan codes from trusted sources. If a code offers a Wi-Fi connection, the system will usually display a warning before connecting.
How can I find out my Wi-Fi password if it's hidden behind asterisks?
On Android 10 and above, you can view your password by tapping the "eye" icon in the network settings menu (authentication required). On older versions, you can't view the saved password in plain text without root access; you can only share it via QR code.