How to connect to Wi-Fi via QR code on Samsung phones: 2026 instructions

Modern smartphones Samsung at the base Android 12–14 support convenient wireless network connection function via QR codeThis method saves time, eliminates errors when manually entering a password, and is especially useful in public places where the network name and security key are long or complex. However, not all users know how to activate this option and what nuances to consider when using it.

In this article we will look at not only the standard connection method via Settings → Wi-Fi, but also alternative methods (for example, using the application Samsung Members or third-party scanners). We will pay special attention common problemsWhy your smartphone can't see your network's QR code, how to bypass restrictions on some router models, and what to do if a connection fails after scanning. We'll also provide a compatibility table for different versions. One UI.

If you frequently need to connect guests to your network or you travel and use public Wi-Fi, this guide will help you optimize the process. And for device owners Samsung Galaxy For models older than 2019, we've prepared a separate section with workarounds—not all models support QR connectivity out of the box.

What is a QR code Wi-Fi connection and how does it work?

Connect to function Wi-Fi via QR code based on the standard Wi-Fi Easy Connect (formerly known as Wi-Fi Device Provisioning Protocol). This protocol allows the transmission of network data (name SSID, encryption type, password) in encrypted form via a graphic code. The main advantage of this method is Elimination of human error: there is no risk of a typo in a long password or an error when selecting a network.

On phones Samsung the implementation works like this:

• 📱 The smartphone scans a QR code from the screen of another device (for example, a router, tablet, or laptop) or printed on paper.
• 🔗 The code contains encrypted network parameters: SSID, security type (WPA2/WPA3), password and, optionally, data for connecting to hidden networks.
• 🔄 The system automatically applies the settings and establishes a connection without any additional user action.

It is important to understand that a QR code for Wi-Fi is not just a text string with a password, but structured data in the format WIFI:S:...;T:...;P:...;;For example, the code might look like this:

WIFI:S:MyHomeNetwork;T:WPA2;P:SecurePassword123;;

Not all routers generate these codes by default. Most models support this feature. ASUS, TP-Link (series Archer AX), Keenetic And MikroTik with firmware versions no later than 2021. If your router doesn't support QR codes, you can generate them manually using online services (more on this in a later section).

Which Samsung devices support QR code connection?

The Wi-Fi QR code scanning feature is available on all smartphones. Samsung, operating under control One UI 3.1 and newer (based on Android 11+). However, there are some nuances:

To check if your device is compatible:

1. Open Settings → About device → Software information.
2. Check out the version One UIIf she 3.1 or higher, the function should work.
3. If the version is older, check for updates in Settings → Software Update.

On devices with One UI 2.5 and below (for example, Galaxy S10 or Note 9) there is no built-in function, but you can use workarounds:

• 🔧 Install a third-party scanner (for example, Google Lens or Kaspersky QR Scanner).
• 📱 Generate a QR code using special services (links in the next section).
• 🖥️ Connect via Samsung Flow, if you have a PC with Windows 10/11.

Step-by-step instructions: how to connect to Wi-Fi via QR code

Let's look at a standard connection method using an example. Samsung Galaxy S23 With One UI 5.1The instructions are also applicable to other supported models with minimal interface changes.

Make sure Wi-Fi is turned on on your phone.

The network's QR code is visible on the screen of another device or printed out

The distance between the code and the camera is 10–30 cm

The lighting is sufficient (avoid glare on the screen)-->

Steps to connect:

1. Open Wi-Fi settings:

   Go to Settings → Connections → Wi-Fi and make sure the switch is active.

   In the upper right corner, click on the icon QR code (or "Add network → Connect via QR code" on older versions).

2. Scan the code:

   Point the camera at the QR code. Hold the phone parallel to the surface with the code.

   If the code is on the screen of another device, reduce the screen brightness to avoid glare.

3. Confirm connection:

   After a successful scan, a window with the network name will appear. Click Connect.

   If the network is hidden, additional confirmation may be required.

If the QR code is generated by a router, the process is even simpler:

• 📡 Go to the router's web interface (usually at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1).
• 🔍 Find the section Wi-Fi → QR code (in routers TP-Link This Basic → Wireless → QR Code).
• 📱 Scan the code from your PC screen or print it.

On some routers (for example, ASUS RT-AX88U) The QR code is updated every 5 minutes for security reasons. If scanning fails, refresh the page containing the code and try again.

How to manually generate a QR code for your Wi-Fi network

If your router doesn't automatically generate QR codes, you can generate them using online services or mobile apps. This is useful, for example, for guest networks or if you want to provide Wi-Fi access without revealing the password.

Generation methods:

• 🌐 Online services:

  — Qifi.org (no registration required);

  — QR Code Generator (select the "Wi-Fi" type).

  ⚠️ Warning: Don't use unknown services to generate codes—they may store your network data. Prefer trusted resources with HTTPS.

• 📱 Mobile applications:

  — WiFi QR Generator (Android);

  — QR Code Reader (iOS) - supports generating codes for Wi-Fi.

• 💻 Command line (for advanced users):

  You can generate the code using Python and libraries qrcode. Command example:

  pip install qrcode[pil]
  python -c "import qrcode; qrcode.make('WIFI:S:MyNetwork;T:WPA;P:MyPassword;;').save('wifi_qr.png')"

When generating manually, it is important to correctly specify the parameters:

• S: — network name (SSID);
• T: — security type (WPA, WPA2, WPA3 or nopass for open networks);
• P: - password;
• H: - optional if the network is hidden (H:true).

An example of the correct format for a hidden network with WPA2:

WIFI:S:MyHiddenNetwork;T:WPA2;P:ComplexPass123;H:true;;

Common problems and their solutions

Despite the simplicity of the method, users often encounter difficulties connecting via QR code. Let's look at common errors and how to resolve them.

1. The smartphone does not see the QR code or cannot scan it

Reasons and solutions:

• 🔦 Low lighting or glare: Try scanning the code in daylight or use a flashlight.
• 📵 The QR code is too small: Enlarge the code on your screen or print it out at a larger size (at least 5x5 cm).
• 🔄 The code is damaged or expired: Update the code in your router settings or generate a new one.
• 📱 Problems with the camera: Restart your phone or clear the app cache Camera V Settings → Applications.

2. Connection is not established after scanning

Possible reasons:

• 🔒 Incorrect security type: Make sure the QR code contains the correct protocol (WPA2/WPA3).
• 📶 The network is unavailable: Check if Wi-Fi is enabled on your router and if your phone is within range.
• 🔄 IP address conflict: Restart your router or enable the option on your phone Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → Auto IP.
• 🛑 MAC address restrictions: If filtering is enabled on the router MAC, add your phone's address to the whitelist.

3. The QR connection function is missing from the menu

Solutions for older models:

• 🔧 Use Google Lens (built in Google Photos or as a separate application).
• 📱 Install Samsung Members and check for updates for your model.
• 🖥️ Connect via Samsung Flow, if you have a PC with the same network.

For routers that do not support QR code generation, you can use an alternative method:

1. Generate the code manually via Qifi.org.
2. Save the image to your phone.
3. Open it in the gallery and click "Connect to Wi-Fi" (if available).

Safety: Risks and Recommendations

Connecting via QR code is convenient, but it has potential vulnerabilities. The main risk is code interception, if it's stored or transmitted carelessly. For example, if you take a photo of your home network's QR code and upload it to the cloud, an attacker could gain access to your Wi-Fi.

Safety recommendations:

• 🔒 For guest networks create separate QR codes with limited access (for example, via the Guest network on the router).
• 📵 Do not share codes publicly: Don't post them on social networks or messengers with a large number of participants.
• 🔄 Update your passwords regularlyIf the QR code may have fallen into the wrong hands, change your network security key.
• 🛡️ Use WPA3This security protocol is harder to crack than WPA2.

On routers with support Wi-Fi Easy Connect (For example, ASUS RT-AX86U) you can set up additional security measures:

• Limit the validity period of the QR code (for example, 1 hour).
• Link the code to a specific device MAC address.
• Enable notifications about new connections.

If you connect to public networks via a QR code (for example, in a cafe or hotel), please note:

• Such networks are often unencrypted or use weak passwords.
• Do not enter logins/passwords for important services (banks, mail) without VPN.
• Disable automatic connection to open networks in your phone settings.

Alternative Wi-Fi Connection Methods on Samsung

If QR code connection is unavailable or doesn't work, there are other methods available. Let's look at the most reliable alternatives.

1. WPS (Wi-Fi Protected Setup)

Many routers support WPS - technology for quick connection using a button or PIN code. Samsung The function is available as follows:

1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Advanced → WPS.
2. Click Connect via WPS.
3. Press the button within 2 minutes WPS on the router (or enter the PIN code from the sticker on the device).

⚠️ Attention: WPS is considered less secure than QR codes, as it is vulnerable to brute-force attacks. Disable this feature on your router after use.

2. Samsung SmartThings

Application SmartThings (pre-installed on most Galaxy) allows you to manage connections of smart devices, including Wi-Fi:

1. Open SmartThings and go to Devices → Add → Wi-Fi.
2. Select your network from the list or enter the details manually.
3. Confirm the connection on your phone.

3. Transferring settings from another device

If you have another phone or tablet already connected to the desired network, you can transfer the settings:

• 📱 On Android 10+: Use the function Close exchange (Nearby Share) for Wi-Fi data transfer.
• 🍎 On iPhone: Bring it up Samsung To iPhone - a pop-up window will appear asking you to connect.

4. Manually adding a network

The classic method that works on all devices:

1. Go to Settings → Wi-Fi → Add network.
2. Enter SSID (network name), select the security type and password.
3. For hidden networks, check the box. Hidden network.

If none of the methods work, check:

• 🔌 Is the router properly connected to the power source and the Internet?
• 📶 Is the phone in sleep mode? On the plane.
• 🔄 Is your antivirus or VPN blocking the connection (disable them temporarily).

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about QR code connection

WIFI:S:MyHiddenNet;T:WPA2;P:password;H:true;;