How to create a Wi-Fi QR code for guests
Anyone who has typed a 16-character Wi-Fi password from a chalkboard onto a phone knows why Wi-Fi QR codes exist. A guest scans the code, the phone offers to join the network, and they confirm if needed. No copying a string of letters, no mistaking an O for a zero, and fewer requests for staff to repeat the password.
How direct Wi-Fi QR codes work
A Wi-Fi QR code stores the network name (SSID), password, and security type in a format compatible phones understand. The camera or scanner can then offer to join the network directly. The exact prompt depends on the phone, and the guest still needs to be within range of the Wi-Fi.
That structure is also why a generic "text" QR code won't do the same job — it just shows the password as text, and the person still has to type it in manually.
Create and test your QR
Prepare the guest network first, then use the dedicated Wi-Fi generator.
- Open the Wi-Fi generator and select Static for a direct connection QR.
- Enter the SSID and password exactly, including letter case. Avoid accidental spaces when copying.
- Select the matching security type. QR-ZY supports WPA/WPA2, WEP and open networks; mark a hidden network only if applicable.
- Apply your design, keeping strong contrast and clear space around the QR. Download PNG, JPG, SVG or PDF.
- Scan the exported code with a phone that is not already connected. Confirm the network name, connection prompt and internet access before printing.
Place it where guests need it
For cafés and restaurants, a small printed card on the table or laminated and taped near the register works well. Hotels and Airbnbs typically include it on a welcome card or a sticker inside a drawer or on the fridge. Offices often put it in the meeting room for visitor WiFi rather than the main office network.
Cafés, coworking spaces, and holiday rentals share their Wi-Fi details with new people all day. A clearly labelled card lets guests get on with their coffee, meeting, or check-in while staff get on with theirs. Put it somewhere easy to reach and test the actual printed card there, including under the usual lighting.
When the network name or password changes
Here's the catch with a direct Wi-Fi QR: the network details are part of the image. Change the name or password, and you'll need to generate a new code and replace the printed copies.
If you change those details often, QR-ZY also offers a dynamic Wi-Fi page. With active Pro or Business access, you can update its details and keep the QR that opens the page. Guests can copy the details or view and download a direct connection QR from it.
Choose this with your guests in mind: the dynamic page opens in a browser and needs internet access; it doesn't connect the phone by itself. A direct static QR is often more convenient for someone who arrives without mobile data.
Treat the QR like a shared password
Treat a Wi-Fi QR like a sign with the password written on it: anyone with a copy can read the connection details. For guests, use a separate network, isolated from your till, office computers, and private devices. If access needs to change, change the password and update the QR too; keeping an old sign is not a good reason to keep sharing old credentials.