Make, share and scan Wi-Fi QR codes on iPhone

Show your network's QR code

Since iOS 18, the Passwords app keeps the networks your iPhone has joined, and can show a QR code for each one (Apple's instructions):

1. Open the Passwords app and unlock it with Face ID, Touch ID or your passcode.
2. Tap Wi-Fi, then tap the network you want to share.
3. Tap Show Network QR Code. The other person points their camera at your screen.

The same screen shows the password itself, which is handy for laptops that can't scan.

On iOS 16 and 17 there's no built-in QR code, but you can see the password in Settings → Wi-Fi by tapping the ⓘ next to the network and then Password. Type that into our generator to make a code.

Scan a Wi-Fi code to join

1. Open the Camera app and point it at the code. You don't need to take a photo.
2. A banner appears that names the network, such as “Join ‘Juniper House Guest’ network”. Tap it.
3. Tap Join to confirm.

The Camera has read Wi-Fi codes since iOS 11. If nothing appears, check that Settings → Camera → Scan QR Codes is on, or use the Code Scanner control in Control Center. A code in a photo or screenshot can be read by touching and holding it in the Photos app.

Sharing with nearby Apple devices

There's a separate feature that needs no QR code at all: when someone in your contacts tries to join your network on their iPhone, iPad or Mac, your unlocked iPhone can show a Share Password prompt. Both devices need Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on and to be close together. It's handy at home, but it only works between Apple devices and between people who have each other's contact details, so a printed sign still matters for everyone else.

Printing a sign

The iPhone's QR code is for showing on screen. To put one on the wall, type the network name and password into the generator exactly as the Passwords app shows them, pick a design, and print at 100%.

When it won't join

• “Unable to join the network”: the password or network name on the sign doesn't match the router. Capitals, spaces and look-alike characters all count.
• The network is WPA3-only: iPhones support WPA3, but if the sign was made for a WPA2 network and the router later changed, make a new sign.
• Hidden networks: joining a hidden network from a code is less reliable. If it fails, add it by hand in Settings → Wi-Fi → Other.
• It joined, but nothing loads: that's the router or the internet connection, not the code. Some networks also show a sign-in page; wait for it, or open Safari.
• An old copy of the network: if the iPhone saved this network before with a different password, go to Settings → Wi-Fi, tap ⓘ, then Forget This Network, and scan again.

More causes and fixes are in Wi-Fi QR code not working. Menus move a little between iOS versions; these steps match iOS 18 and later.