How to Scan a Wi-Fi QR Code on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Wi-Fi QR codes let you connect to a wireless network instantly without typing the password. While Windows does not have a built-in “scan Wi-Fi QR code” button like smartphones, you can still scan and connect using a few simple methods.

This guide explains how to scan a Wi-Fi QR code on Windows 10 and Windows 11.

Can Windows Scan Wi-Fi QR Codes Directly

Windows does not currently include a native QR scanner inside Wi-Fi settings. However, you can:

• Use your laptop’s camera with a QR scanning app
• Use the Camera app if QR detection is supported
• Scan the QR code with your phone and manually enter the password
• Use third-party QR reader apps

Method 1: Use the Windows Camera App

Some Windows devices support QR scanning through the Camera app.

Steps:

1. Open Start
2. Search for Camera
3. Open the Camera app
4. Point your webcam at the Wi-Fi QR code

If QR detection is supported, a link or network information may appear.

If your Camera app does not detect QR codes, update it from the Microsoft Store.

Method 2: Use a QR Scanner App from Microsoft Store

If the Camera app does not work:

1. Open Microsoft Store
2. Search for QR code scanner
3. Install a trusted app
4. Open the app
5. Scan the Wi-Fi QR code

The app will display:

• Network name (SSID)
• Security type
• Password

You can then manually connect to the network.

Method 3: Scan with Your Phone and Enter Password Manually

If your PC does not have a camera:

1. Scan the Wi-Fi QR code using your smartphone
2. View the network name and password
3. On your Windows PC, click the Wi-Fi icon
4. Select the network
5. Enter the password

This is often the quickest solution.

How to Connect After Scanning

Once you have the password:

1. Click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar
2. Select the network name
3. Click Connect
4. Enter the password
5. Click Next

You will be connected to the network.

How Wi-Fi QR Codes Work

Wi-Fi QR codes contain encoded information such as:

• SSID (network name)
• Security type
• Password

The format typically looks like:

WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;;

Scanning decodes this automatically.

Create a Wi-Fi QR Code on Windows

If you want to share your Wi-Fi network:

1. Use an online QR code generator
2. Enter network name and password
3. Generate QR code
4. Print or share the image

Windows does not currently generate Wi-Fi QR codes natively.

Troubleshooting QR Code Scanning Issues

If scanning does not work:

• Ensure proper lighting
• Clean the webcam lens
• Update the Camera app
• Try a different QR scanner app

Low camera quality may affect detection.

Final Thoughts

Although Windows 10 and Windows 11 do not have built-in Wi-Fi QR code scanning inside network settings, you can easily scan using the Camera app or third-party QR tools. If needed, use your smartphone to extract the password and connect manually. It only takes a few steps to get connected.

FAQs

Can Windows 11 scan Wi-Fi QR codes directly
Not natively in Wi-Fi settings, but Camera or QR apps can help.

Do I need internet to scan a QR code
No, scanning works offline.

What if my PC does not have a camera
Use a smartphone to scan and enter the password manually.

Is it safe to use QR scanner apps
Yes, if downloaded from the official Microsoft Store.

Can Windows create Wi-Fi QR codes
No built-in feature is available for generating Wi-Fi QR codes.