How to Display a Wi-Fi QR Code on Windows

Quick Tips

• Wi-Fi QR codes let others connect to your Wi-Fi without needing complicated passwords.
• Windows systems don’t have a built-in QR generator but you can create and display a QR code using the Command Prompt and a free QR code generator.
• With your Wi-Fi QR code generated, it’s ready to be displayed on your screen for scanning.

Typing in a long and complicated Wi-Fi password again and again gets frustrating. They’re not short or simple to remember, so people are turning to alternatives like QR codes. A quick scan of these allows people to join the network instantly.

Windows doesn’t offer a built-in way to generate a QR code but you can use free tools to do it yourself.

How to Generate and Display a Wi-Fi QR Code on Windows

Find Your Wi-Fi Network Information

Before you can make a QR code, you need your Wi-Fi details.

Step 1. Press Windows + R to open the Run window.

Step 2. Type ‘cmd’ and press Enter.

Step 3. Type the following command:

netsh wlan show profiles

This shows a list of saved Wi-Fi networks. Find the one you want.

Step 4. Type the next command:

netsh wlan show profile name=”YOUR_WIFI_NAME” key=clear

Replace YOUR_WIFI_NAME with the network name.

Step 5. Scroll down to Security Settings.

Step 6. Write down the network name, password (under Key Content) and security type.

Create the Wi-Fi QR Code

Once you have all the information, you can add it to a QR code. 

Step 1. Open a web browser and search for a free Wi-Fi QR code generator.

Step 2. Enter your information.

Step 3. Click ‘Generate.’

The generator should give you the option to export the QR or save it as an image to your computer.

Display the QR Code on Your Screen

Once you have the QR code, you can easily display it for anyone who needs access. Here are some ideas:

Use Windows Photos App

Step 1. Right-click the QR code image.

Step 2. Choose ‘Open with’ > ‘Photos.’

Step 3. Maximize the window to display it clearly.

Keep it open in a visible place for your guests to see when they arrive.

Set as Desktop Background

Right-click the image file and select ‘Set as background’. As long as the computer remains open, the QR code will be visible.

Recommended Online QR Code Generators

Though many free QR code generators can be found online, we’ve selected a few reliable options for your convenience.

QiFi

• This QR code generator was built specifically for Wi-Fi QR codes.
• No data is stored or sent to a server so it’s very secure.
• It has a straightforward, user-friendly interface for entering your information.

QR Code Monkey

• This generator offers advanced customization such as colors or logos.
• It supports high-res PNG and vector downloads.
• It’s better suited for QR codes used by brands.

GoQR

• GoQR supports multiple QR code types.
• It offers quick generation with basic design options.
• You can download the QR code in multiple formats.