How to Connect to Wi-Fi with a QR Code on Windows
Use the Windows Camera app to scan a Wi-Fi QR code, connect without typing the password, and make a compatible Wi-Fi code for guests.
A Wi-Fi QR code stores the network name, security type, and password. A compatible device can read these details and offer to connect. You do not have to type the password.
Microsoft documents this function for Windows devices that have a camera. The exact controls can differ with the Windows version, Camera app version, and camera hardware.
Scan a Wi-Fi QR code with the Windows Camera app
- 1
Open Camera
Open Start, type Camera, and select the Camera app. Permit camera access if Windows asks for it.
- 2
Select barcode mode
On the right side of the Camera app, select the barcode mode icon. This changes the app from photo mode to code scanning mode.
- 3
Put the complete code in view
Point the camera at the Wi-Fi QR code. Keep the code flat, in focus, and inside the camera frame.
- 4
Open the detected network
Select the link that appears in the Camera app. Windows opens the network details in Settings.
- 5
Confirm the connection
Check the network name. Then confirm that you want to add and connect to the network. You can also select automatic connection when the network is in range.
Read the network name before you connect. Only join a network that you know and trust.
Show a QR code for a saved Wi-Fi network
Windows can show the password for the current network and for saved networks. On supported Windows versions, the network details also include a QR code that another compatible device can scan.
- 1
Open network settings
Open Settings, select Network & internet, and open the properties for the current Wi-Fi network.
- 2
Show the network password
Find Wi-Fi network password and select Show. For another saved network, open Manage known networks, select the network, and then select Show next to its password.
- 3
Scan from the other device
Use the other device to scan the QR code. Confirm the network name before you accept the connection.
Make a Wi-Fi QR code with QR Anvil
Use this method when Windows does not show a shareable code, or when you want a code for a guest network. QR Anvil makes the Wi-Fi QR image in your browser.
- 1
Open the Wi-Fi QR code generator
Sign in to QR Anvil and open the Wi-Fi QR Code page.
- 2
Enter the network details
Enter the network name exactly as it appears. Select the correct security type, enter the password, and mark the network as hidden only if it does not broadcast its name.
- 3
Create and test the code
Create the code and scan it with a device that is not connected to the network. Confirm that it joins the correct network.
- 4
Download and place the code
Download the QR code. Put it where approved guests can scan it, but where the public cannot easily copy it.
If Windows does not show barcode mode
- Check that Windows permits the Camera app to use the camera.
- Install available Windows and Camera app updates, then open Camera again.
- Try the other camera if the device has front and rear cameras.
- Use a phone to scan the code, or enter the network name and password manually.
- If the code scans but does not connect, check that its network name, security type, and password are current.
Barcode mode can be unavailable on some devices. An app update cannot add support to incompatible camera hardware.
Protect the Wi-Fi password
A Wi-Fi QR code is a convenient form of the network credentials. It is not encryption. A person with a QR reader can extract the stored network name and password.
Use a separate guest network when possible. Put the code in a controlled place. Replace the code after you change the password, because the old printed code keeps the old credentials.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Windows connect to Wi-Fi from a QR code?
Yes. On a Windows device with supported camera hardware and Camera app barcode mode, scan the Wi-Fi QR code, select the detected link, and confirm the connection in Settings.
Why is barcode mode missing in the Windows Camera app?
The Camera app version or the device camera can affect which modes are available. Check camera permission and available updates. If the mode is still absent, use another device or enter the network details manually.
Does a Wi-Fi QR code hide the password?
No. The code stores the connection details in a machine-readable form. A person with a QR reader can read the password. Use a guest network and control access to the printed code.