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WiFi QR Code: iPhone/Android format (works reliably)

Exact WIFI: payload format, what “Encryption” means, and how to avoid scan failures on iPhone/Android (special chars, hidden networks).

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On this page
  1. The format scanners expect
  2. Special characters that break scans
  3. Hidden networks
  4. Recommended workflow (fast)
Quick steps
  1. Open the WiFi template: Use the WiFi QR generator to start.
  2. Paste SSID and password: Copy the exact router values and avoid manual typing errors.
  3. Set encryption and hidden status: Use WPA for most networks; mark hidden networks correctly.
  4. Handle special characters: If SSID or password includes ; , : or \, keep them exact.
  5. Test on real phones: Scan on iPhone and Android before printing or sharing.

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Use cases & print ideas

Matching pages that explain where this QR type works best before you open the generator.
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Let guests connect by scanning once instead of typing a long password at reception desks, rentals, cafes, or events.
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Use Redirect QR when the printed asset must stay fixed but the destination, tracking, or campaign path may change after launch.
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Turn offline scans into video views, channel subscriptions, or playlist opens without asking people to type a URL or search your handle.
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QRFlow generates WiFi QR codes locally in your browser (privacy-friendly; no uploads).

The format scanners expect#

Most iPhone/Android camera scanners understand this “WIFI:” payload (a de-facto standard):

WIFI:T:WPA;S:YourNetworkName;P:YourPassword;H:false;;
  • T: encryption type — use WPA for WPA/WPA2/WPA3, WEP for old routers, or nopass for open networks.
  • S: SSID (WiFi name)
  • P: password (omit if T:nopass)
  • H: hidden network (true/false)

Special characters that break scans#

If your SSID or password contains ; , : or \, some scanners fail unless the value is escaped. QRFlow handles this by escaping those characters in the WiFi payload.

Practical tip: if scans fail, test with a simpler password (letters + numbers) or regenerate after copying the exact router values (case-sensitive).

Hidden networks#

Hidden SSIDs are less reliable across devices. If you must use one, set Hidden network to true and keep the QR large enough for comfortable scanning.

  1. Open the WiFi template.
  2. Copy/paste SSID and password from the router settings (avoid manual typing).
  3. Test on at least one iPhone and one Android.
  4. Download SVG for print-ready signage (cafes, offices, event badges).

Continue reading

Next →
Best QR Code Size for Business Cards: 20-25 mm (0.8-1.0 in)
Use 20-25 mm (0.8-1.0 in) for most business cards. Includes minimum size guidance for short URLs, larger sizing for vCards, quiet zone rules, and a card dimensions chart.

Related guides

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Which vCard fields actually get saved on iOS/Android, what to keep minimal, and how to avoid bloating the QR for better scans.
Generate a QR code for your Wi-Fi network to allow guests to join without manually typing the password.
How to create a URL QR code, shorten long links, and keep scans reliable.
When a text QR code makes sense and how to keep it scannable.
Create a Google Maps QR code for a store location or directions link, choose the right URL, and print it for signage.
Create an Apple Maps QR code from an address, coordinates, or Apple Maps share link. Best link formats and print tips for iPhone-friendly signage.

Quick answers

Common questions

What is the correct WiFi payload format?
Use WIFI:T:WPA;S:SSID;P:password;H:false;; with proper values.
Why does WiFi QR fail on iPhone?
Incorrect encryption or unescaped special characters often cause issues.
Which QR format works best?
Use standard formats like URL, WIFI, vCard, or wa.me and keep the data short.
How do I keep QR content scannable?
Remove extra fields, shorten URLs, and print larger for dense data.
Try it now
Generate QR codes locally in your browser — no uploads.
Browse generatorsOpen template →See use cases →